Things To Do
in Nicoya
Nicoya, Costa Rica is a historic town on the Guanacaste coast known for its preserved colonial charm and warm, friendly locals. It serves as a gateway to the broader Nicoya Peninsula, with easy access to beaches, mangroves, and rural landscapes. The town center features a lively market, colorful churches, and a laid-back, traditional Costa Rican vibe.
Rich with indigenous heritage and ranching culture, Nicoya offers authentic experiences alongside natural beauty and easy day trips to nearby beaches and parks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming town square of Nicoya, where you can admire the iconic colonial architecture and vibrant local life. Grab a traditional breakfast at a nearby soda, trying the Gallo Pinto, a local rice and bean dish that will fuel your day. As you stroll through the streets, visit the historic Nicoya Church, an important site reflecting the town's rich cultural heritage.
After lunch, head to the Nicoya Cultural Center to delve deeper into the region's history and art. Engage with local artisans and perhaps purchase a unique piece of handmade crafts or jewelry. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the nearby hills for stunning views over the town and surrounding landscapes.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Costa Rican cuisine. Savor fresh seafood while listening to the sounds of local musicians performing traditional music. After your meal, take a stroll through the town to soak in the peaceful evening atmosphere.
Set off early to the beautiful beaches of Samara, known for their soft sand and clear waters. Spend your morning swimming or simply soaking up the sun, with the scenic backdrop of palm trees swaying in the breeze. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking in the tranquil bay.
After a beachside lunch at a charming café, take a surfing lesson with a local instructor who can guide you through the basics of riding the waves. The warm waters and consistent swells make it an ideal spot for both beginners and seasoned surfers. Spend your afternoon enjoying the thrill of catching waves and improving your skills.
As the day winds down, relax on the beach with a refreshing drink while watching the sunset paint the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink. For dinner, indulge in a beachfront restaurant that offers fresh seafood caught that day, paired with local tropical fruits. Cap off your evening with a stroll along the shore, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel bed (per night) | $25-50 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per liter) | $1.00-1.50 |
| 🪑Beach chair or umbrella rental | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Costa Rican town feel
- Great access to beaches and nature
- Friendly locals and safety
- Relatively affordable compared to tourist hubs
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end options
- Some rural roads can be rough or slow
- Smaller medical facilities in town; longer trips for specialized care
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Hola, buenos días" - Hello, good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¡Pura vida!" - Pure life!
Places to Visit in Nicoya
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking example of colonial architecture with a simple, elegant façade and interior that reflects the town’s historical roots.
Vibrant central square framed by colorful buildings, activity, and locals going about daily life—great for candid street photography.
Photograph artisans shaping traditional Chorotega ceramics and their vivid, hand-painted wares in a rustic setting.
Terraced coastal landscapes and sunsets along the Guanacaste shoreline, offering wide sea horizons.
Food in Nicoya
Nicoya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice and beans cooked together, usually served with eggs or meat for breakfast; a Costa Rican staple found at many cafés.
Must-Try!
A complete platter with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a protein such as chicken, pork, or fish; a common Costa Rican lunch choice.
Fresh red snapper cured in lime with onions, cilantro, and peppers; widely available at seaside eateries.
Crispy fried green plantains often served with cheese, guacamole, or sour cream; popular tapas-style accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs, and a variety of inexpensive local bites.
Casual spots serving quick bites like empanadas, fried plantains, and fruit cups sought after by locals and visitors alike.
Mobile or roadside stalls selling tropical fruits such as mango, papaya, pineapple, and coconut water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly 'Pura vida' or 'Hola' and a handshake or hug with close acquaintances. Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural villages, and be respectful toward local customs and spaces. Bargaining is common in markets, but do so politely and with a smile.
Safety
Tipping in Nicoya
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave 10-15% if a service charge isn’t included. For tour guides, a small tip is appreciated if the service is excellent. Carry small bills to tip street vendors or drivers when appropriate.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season (roughly November to April) brings sunny days and comfortable beach weather; water levels are lower for river crossings and some remote roads are easier to navigate. Great for beach days and outdoor hikes, but carry water, wear sunscreen, and prepare for higher heat.
Wet season (roughly May to October) brings lush green landscapes and afternoon showers; expect heavier rain in the afternoons and occasional road slickness. Trails stay verdant, and fewer crowds make it ideal for a quieter experience, though plan for flexible itineraries.
Nicoya at Night
Hiking in Nicoya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A volcanic landscape with forests, waterfalls, and fumaroles; a popular day trip from Liberia.
A straightforward hike to a picturesque waterfall near Bagaces.
Coastal trails near the village of Guaitil offering sea views and quiet coastline.
Airports
How to reach Nicoya by plane.
Major international gateway in Guanacaste; about 1.5–2.5 hours by road to Nicoya depending on route.
Small domestic airstrip serving Nosara; convenient connections to San José and Liberia, with shorter drives to Nicoya.
Costa Rica’s main international hub near San José; a longer drive to Nicoya (about 4–5 hours) but many flights connect domestically afterward.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Family-centered communities involved in farming, markets, and small businesses.
Indigenous-descended groups with distinctive crafts and cultural traditions.
Small but growing communities in Nosara and nearby beach towns; many live seasonally.
People who work in agriculture and serve visitors in markets and shops.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple in the region, with famous breaks at Nosara, Samara, and nearby beaches.
A common local pastime; informal games and organized matches occur across towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nicoya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer rice-and-beans staples, salads, and fruit; ask for vegetarian options or simple substitutes like cheese or eggs. Look for casado variants without meat and request sauces on the side to manage spice. Many mercados can accommodate vegetarian requests if you ask for gallo pinto, plantains, fresh fruit, and salads.