Most Adventurous Activities in Nosara(Ranked by Adventure Level)
Nosara is often known for yoga and relaxing beach vacations—but there's another side to this corner of Costa Rica. If you're looking for a little more excitement, you'll find everything from waterfall ATV tours and ziplining to surfing, horseback riding, and boat adventures.
Whether you're traveling with kids, chasing a little adrenaline, or just want to try something new, these are the adventure activities we recommend most.
ATV Waterfall Tour
Adventure Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If we had to choose just one adventure activity in Nosara, this would probably be it.
ATV tours are already an adventure, but adding a waterfall takes it to another level. Depending on the season, your guide may take you to different waterfalls, and many tours give you the option to swim, climb to a jumping spot, or even slide down smooth natural rock slides.
One of the things we like most is that you can make the experience as adventurous as you're comfortable with. Drive at your own pace, choose whether or not to jump, and simply enjoy the scenery if that's more your style.
This is a fantastic family activity for older kids—generally around ages 7 or 8 and up, depending on the tour operator.
If waterfalls aren't flowing during your visit, or you're looking for other ATV experiences, check out our complete guide to ATV tours in Nosara.
Ziplining
Adventure Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If soaring through the jungle canopy sounds fun, don't skip Nosara's zipline.
The lines here are impressively long, giving you incredible views over the treetops while you fly from platform to platform. There is a bit of hiking between some sections, which only adds to the adventure, and depending on conditions, you may even stop at a small waterfall along the way.
The guides do an excellent job of making first-timers feel comfortable, so even if you're a little nervous, you'll likely find yourself enjoying it after the first run.
They welcome children around age 5 and older, making it another great option for adventurous families.
Surf Lessons
Adventure Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
If you've surfed for years, you might not think of a surf lesson as an adventure—but for first-time surfers, it absolutely is.
Nosara is one of Costa Rica's best places to learn, and we strongly recommend taking a lesson instead of trying to figure it out yourself. A good instructor will teach you safety, ocean awareness, proper technique, and little adjustments that save hours of frustration.
Even if you've surfed before, a lesson can still be worthwhile if you're hoping to improve your technique or gain confidence in larger waves.
There's nothing quite like catching your first wave—it ends up being one of the highlights of many visitors' trips.
Pink Island Boat Tour
Adventure Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Any time you head out onto the ocean, there's a sense of adventure.
The Pink Island tour is one of our favorites because it combines beautiful scenery with a little exploration. After a scenic boat ride, you'll arrive at a small island known for its pink-hued sand, where you can relax on the beach, snorkel in clear water, and enjoy a side of Costa Rica that many visitors never see.
If Pink Island isn't quite what you're looking for, there are plenty of other great boat adventures nearby, including sunset cruises, wildlife tours, catamaran trips, and sport fishing charters.
Not sure which boat tour is right for your trip? Read our complete guide to Nosara boat tours.
Horseback Riding
Adventure Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
Horseback riding may not sound especially adventurous if you've done it before, but it's one of the most memorable ways to experience Nosara for first-time riders.
The horses used on local tours are typically calm and well-trained, and guides do a great job of matching riders with the right horse. Depending on the tour you choose, you'll ride along quiet beaches, through jungle trails, or across open countryside.
It's a wonderful option for families and anyone looking for an experience that's a little more relaxed while still feeling like an adventure.
Sunset Dinner at Coyol
Adventure Rating: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
We've always joked that dinner at Coyol is an adventure all by itself.
Getting there is part of the experience. The restaurant sits high in the hills about 20 minutes outside Guiones, and the drive includes a steep climb that can feel a little intimidating if it's your first time. While you can absolutely drive yourself, we often recommend arranging transportation so everyone can simply enjoy the evening.
Once you arrive, you'll understand why it's become such a popular recommendation. The panoramic views are breathtaking, the setting is beautiful, and the food and cocktails make it well worth the trip.
If you're hoping to catch sunset, be sure to make reservations well in advance.
Which Adventure Is Right for You?
There's really no wrong choice—it just depends on the kind of experience you're looking for.
If you're after the biggest adrenaline rush, we'd point you toward an ATV waterfall tour or ziplining. If you want to experience something uniquely Nosara, book a surf lesson. Looking for something scenic and memorable? The Pink Island boat tour, horseback riding, and dinner at Coyol are all fantastic choices.
Need Help Choosing?
Not sure which adventure fits your trip best?
Tell us a little about who's traveling with you, how many days you'll be in Nosara, and what kind of vacation you're hoping for. We'd be happy to point you toward the activities we think you'll enjoy most.
Planning Your Trip?
These guides will help you plan the rest of your visit:
Where to Stay in Nosara → Find the area that's the best fit for your trip.
Do You Need a Car or ATV? → Figure out the easiest way to get around.
What to Do in Nosara → Browse all of the area's top activities.
What to Do in Nosara with Kids → Family-friendly ideas for every age.
How to Plan a Trip to Nosara → A step-by-step guide to planning your vacation.