Once a tranquil surf enclave, Nosara, Costa Rica, has dramatically transformed from its humble beginnings. In 2016, it was merely a laid-back village, characterized by a single main street and the ever-stretching jungle that kissed the sandy shores. Fast forward to the post-pandemic era, and Nosara has morphed into a buzzing hub, attracting a wave of remote workers primarily from the U.S. and Canada, thanks to a significant governmental push in fiber optics.
Pandemic-Era Growth Spurs New Developments
The pandemic catalyzed unprecedented growth in Nosara, drawing in a cosmopolitan crowd and paving the way for upscale developments. Trendy co-working spaces, cold plunge studios, chic boutiques, and eateries boasting health-centric menus featuring acai bowls and blue spirulina lattes have become the new normal here. Brooke, who returned in 2021 with his family, was astounded by the transformation, remarking on the vibrancy and richness that now characterized the once sleepy town.
Silvestre: A New Jewel in Nosara’s Crown
Spotting a gap in the market for luxury family-friendly accommodations, Brooke invested in a commercial lot and by March had launched Silvestre. This boutique resort, located just steps from the pathway to Playa Guiones, offers nine spacious 1,000-square-foot residences, a rooftop bar, a yoga studio, and a surf concierge, capitalizing on one of the world’s most consistent surf breaks.
Guanacaste’s Luxury Boom
The phenomenon is not restricted to Nosara. Throughout the province of Guanacaste, known for its arid climate and golden beaches, the luxury real estate and hospitality sectors are booming. Esteemed names like Ritz Carlton and Waldorf-Astoria are slated to open their doors by the year’s end, following in the footsteps of the pioneering Four Seasons on the Papagayo Peninsula. The Las Catalinas area, a car-free development designed to align with the U.S. time zone, is seeing villas priced up to $10 million.
A Surge in Tourism
Costa Rica’s international allure is growing, with a 17% increase in visitors last year and a whopping 59% increase this January alone, spurred by new direct flights from major U.S. cities. Renae Johnson, the marketing director for Las Catalinas, sums up the appeal: “The beach is seconds from my office… That is the new luxury.”
Costa Rica: A Magnet for the Outdoor Enthusiasts
Despite its burgeoning nightlife and amenities, Costa Rica remains a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The nation’s eternal summer is perfect for surfing, snorkeling, hiking, and mountain
biking. Rather than nightclubs, the elite here are more inclined to gather for breathtaking sunsets, embracing the much-celebrated Blue Zone wellness culture and preserving the pristine beaches and forests.
What’s Coming to Guanacaste
The Waldorf Astoria is gearing up to welcome guests next year with its luxury setup 30 minutes from the Liberia Airport. This plush resort promises 188 guest rooms and suites, 41 private residences, signature dining experiences, a cenote-themed spa, and a variety of eco-tourism adventures, highlighting the rich local culture and natural beauty.
Similarly, the Ritz Carlton’s Nekajui, meaning “garden” in the Chorotega dialect, is set to redefine luxury on the Papagayo Peninsula. This resort will feature 107 new rooms, including lavish suites and unique glamping tents, alongside 36 Mediterranean-style villas for sale, priced near $15 million. Guests will enjoy exclusive amenities like a beach club accessible by funicular, a hidden speakeasy, and extensive wellness facilities.
Sustainable Growth and Local Involvement
Despite the rapid development, the Guanacaste region is unlikely to face overbuilding thanks to the vast Área de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG), a UNESCO World Heritage site, which protects a wide swath of land from the Pacific shores to the Caribbean lowlands. This environmental safeguard is complemented by strict water rights management, ensuring sustainable growth.
In Nosara, stringent local regulations prevent direct beachfront developments, preserving the pristine views and natural charm of the area. The community’s strong commitment to maintaining the integrity of their town is evident, with Brooke noting, “When you look back from the beach, all you can see is jungle. That makes it a very special place.”
As Nosara and Guanacaste continue to evolve, they offer an enticing blend of luxury and sustainability, attracting those who seek both refinement and a deep connection with nature. This transformation from sleepy surf spots to sophisticated havens exemplifies Costa Rica’s rising status as a premier global destination for discerning travelers.
