The Gilded Iguana
The Gilded Iguana is the original surfer spot in Nosara, a long-time destination for an international community of surfers seeking an off-the-grid escape. Here, surfers of all ages and experience levels calibrate their equilibrium on the waves off one of the best beaches in Costa Rica, Playa Guiones.
Outside the hotel, Nosara’s natural surroundings and relaxed vibe remain the same – especially its most famous beach, Playa Guiones. Beyond the unpaved roads leading to the expansive seven-kilometer-long stretch of undeveloped white sand and consistent waves, adventure seekers enjoy mountain biking and the world’s longest zip line. And the region’s eco-friendly, all-natural lifestyle rounds out appeal for yoga retreats and a culinary scene that offers freshly-grown produce and just-caught seafood.
Designed by acclaimed architect Benjamin Saxe and San Jose-based interior design firm Sofa Interiorismo, our Nosara hotel rooms feature artisan craftsmanship, indoor and outdoor showers, and outdoor living space, giving you every opportunity enjoy you vacation in Nosara. At The Gilded Iguana, the basics like free Wi-Fi are a given, and extras like surfboard storage complete a stay at our Nosara accommodations.
The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel's spacious rooms are designed for guest comfort and an authentic Nosara vacation experience. They include artisanal, handmade elements, custom furniture, and high-end furnishings. The Premium King Room features a king size bed, table and chairs, desk, mini bar and fridge, coffee and tea maker. The Premium King Rooms have either an outdoor terrace with outdoor shower, or vaulted ceilings with an outdoor balcony. All rooms have surfboard locker or storage racks.
Surfing
The Gilded Iguana is the original Nosara surfing hotel. For the last 40 years, we’ve been the spot where locals and visitors gather before or after heading to Playa Guiones, the region’s most famous surfing beach, just 200 meters from the hotel.
The full-service surf school offers professional instruction to surfers of all ages and skill levels, and our retail shop includes everything you could need to complete your Costa Rica surfing trip, from long boards down to the needed essentials.
Surf Camp
Master the art of surfing at The Gilded Iguana Surf Camp. Beginners will build a solid surfing foundation, while intermediate and advanced surfers can take their techniques to the next level. Our seven-day, all-inclusive retreat includes accommodations at The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel, daily surf lessons, video analysis sessions, surf theory, a full Surf Club membership and more. Grab your friends and head to Costa Rica — The Gilded Iguana wants to help take your surfing to the next level.
Hiking
At the Mountain Biking Center, find everything you need to get your adrenaline pumping. We’re located where the mountains of Costa Rica’s tropical coastline meet the sea, forming fun and unique riding terrain. Book any of our two-hour tours to enjoy mountain biking instruction from a personal guide as well as bike rentals, plus a helmet, gloves, hydration, and first-aid assistance. Whether you’re seeking an easy ride or more of a challenge, we have a tour that’s perfect for you.
Spa
Indulge yourself in a Nosara, Costa Rica spa experience at The Gilded Iguana. Located between the mountains and the ocean, our natural setting is one of the most relaxing in the world—perfect for unwinding and treating yourself to our Costa Rica yoga spa. We only use Costa Rican sourced organic products to to cleanse and replenish your body.
By plane:
Nosara (NOS) is our local airstrip, and flights on the domestic carrier Sansa can be as short as 20 min from Liberia (LIR) and 45min from San Jose (SJO). The planes for these connections are small, prop-engined aircraft.
The closest International airport is, Liberia International (LIR). This airport is two and a half hours away. Our front desk team is happy to help you arrange a pick up from the airport to the hotel. The majority of the trip the roads are paved. For the last 30 min of drive you are on a dirt road. You should count for around $140 per trip in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mini Van. San Jose (SJO) International is a five-hour drive. Our front desk can arrange for a pick up. The trip fee is $240 for a Mini Van. The Mini Van can carry a group of 4 to 6 people with a piece of luggage for each person.
