Best Boat Tours in Nosara: Fishing, Catamarans, Wildlife & More
Catamaran Tour - Photo Courtesy of Sea Saw Tours
While Nosara is best known for its world-class surfing and beautiful beaches, getting out on the water is one of the area's most memorable experiences. Just a short drive from Playa Guiones, you'll find a variety of boat tours that let you explore Costa Rica's Pacific coastline in a completely different way.
Whether you're hoping to reel in a trophy fish, spot dolphins, sail on a luxury catamaran, or watch the sunset from the ocean, there's a boat tour for every type of traveler.
Here's everything you need to know before booking.
Where Do Boat Tours in Nosara Depart From?
Nearly all boat tours in the Nosara area depart from Playa Garza, a small fishing village located about 15 minutes south of Playa Guiones.
Most visitors choose to drive themselves, though you can easily book a shuttle as well.
Since Garza doesn't have a marina, boarding is a little different than you might expect. Most tours begin right from the beach, where you'll walk a short distance across the sand before boarding a small "taxi boat." This smaller boat takes you out to your main vessel waiting offshore, where your adventure begins.
It's a simple process and part of the experience!
Tips Before Your Boat Tour
A little preparation goes a long way toward making your day on the water as enjoyable as possible.
We recommend bringing:
Sunscreen
A hat
Sunglasses
A towel
Comfortable clothing
A camera or waterproof phone case
If you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking Dramamine before your tour. Costa Rican pharmacies sometimes carry it under the brand name or you can ask for Dimenhidrinato, the generic name in Spanish.
Which Boat Tour Is Right for You?
Fishing Charters
Fishing is one of the most popular boat experiences around Nosara, and one of the easiest to customize.
Whether you're an experienced angler or simply want to spend a relaxing day on the ocean, local captains offer a wide variety of options. You can choose between half-day or full-day trips, smaller or larger boats, and inshore or offshore fishing, depending on your interests and experience level.
Some visitors are looking for an exciting offshore adventure, while others simply want a peaceful morning on the water with friends or family. There's a fishing charter to match just about every style of trip.
Catamaran Cruises
If relaxation is your priority, a catamaran cruise is hard to beat.
These spacious boats typically accommodate around 15 guests and offer a smooth, comfortable ride along the coastline. Many tours include food, drinks, swimming stops, snorkeling opportunities, and plenty of time to simply sit back and enjoy the scenery.
You can reserve an entire catamaran for a private group or, depending on the season, join one of the shared public departures.
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a carefree day on the water, catamaran cruises offer one of the most luxurious experiences near Nosara.
Photo courtesy of Sea Saw Tours
Wildlife Watching Tours
Costa Rica's Pacific coast is home to incredible marine life, and wildlife watching tours give you the opportunity to experience it up close.
These tours typically last three to four hours and focus on searching for dolphins, sea turtles, seabirds, and—during the right season—even humpback whales.
Since these are wild animals, sightings can never be guaranteed, but experienced local captains know the waters well and maximize your chances of finding wildlife.
For nature lovers and families alike, this is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the ocean.
Sunset Cruises
Few things compare to watching the sun disappear below the Pacific Ocean.
Sunset cruises typically last around three hours, giving you plenty of time to cruise along the coastline, enjoy a drink, and settle into the perfect spot as the sky transforms into shades of orange, pink, and purple.
Whether you're celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, birthday, or simply want a relaxing evening on the water, a sunset cruise offers an unforgettable way to end the day.
Pink Island Tours
Looking for something a little different?
Pink Island is one of the area's more unique boat excursions. After a scenic ride across crystal-clear water, you'll arrive at a small island known for its distinctive pink-colored sand.
You'll have time to swim, snorkel, explore the shoreline, and simply relax and take in the scenery before returning to Garza.
If you've already spent plenty of time on Nosara's beaches and are looking for a new experience, Pink Island makes a fun addition to your itinerary.
Need Help Choosing the Right Boat Tour?
Every traveler is different, and the "best" boat tour depends on what kind of experience you're looking for.
Whether you're traveling with young children, planning a romantic getaway, organizing a group outing, or simply aren't sure which option is right for you, we're happy to help.
Contact us, and we'll connect you with a trusted local boat tour provider that's the best fit for your group.
Planning Your Trip to Nosara?
If you're still putting together your itinerary, these guides can help: