What: This 24-room, eco-friendly hotel in the sleepy town of Nosara, on the northwest coast of Costa Rica, is mix of snug surfer-chic rooms and larger bungalows outfitted with outdoor showers and private gardens — along with a celebrated yoga facility and spa, The Healing Centre, an open-air restaurant serving up sustainable fare, an organic juice/snack bar and a new, well-stocked bookstore/gift shop. A sushi bar will be introduced next year.
Where: Just a short walk to one of the area’s main surfing spots, Playa Guiones; the impossibly wide, beautiful beach is also great for a long stroll and to catch a sunset. The hotel’s lush, tropical setting ensures you’ll hear (if not see) native howler monkeys — and encounter plenty of local wildlife, especially iguanas and armadillos.
Why: It’s one of the only high-end lodging options in a place dominated by casual hostels, hardcore yoga retreats and private rentals.
Working Well: The chlorine-free pool, shaded by a huge albino palm tree, is the perfect place to relax and sip tasty, all-natural cocktails (try the Pina Colada, made with real pineapple). A healthier option is the neighboring Juice Bar, a favorite of locals who stop by for the organic coffee, smoothies and affordable sandwiches — all made using local produce.
Don’t Miss: The Healing Centre offers the perfect break from surfing — stop by one of its yoga classes (five to six daily in the high season, $12 for 75 to 90 minutes), indulge in a facial (employing natural products, many sourced locally, from $50) or relieve aches and pains via a Surfer’s Massage (deep tissue, with an emphasis on the upper body, $90/one hour). Also on offer are interesting workshops (like dance and meditation) and specialty massages by visiting guest therapists. Plans are in place to double the size of the Centre in 2015.
Details: From $330; harmonynosara.com