Riding the Wave: Nosara’s Surf Culture From the 1960s to Today

Nosara, Costa Rica, has long been a haven for surfers seeking pristine waves, uncrowded beaches, and a raw, untamed connection to the ocean. What began as a quiet coastal retreat in the 1960s has evolved into one of the world’s most revered surf destinations, blending history, competition, and a deep-rooted respect for the sea.

The Early Days: The Dawn of Surfing in Nosara

In the 1960s, Nosara was little more than a sleepy fishing village tucked away in Guanacaste’s jungle-lined coast. A few adventurous surfers, primarily expats and travelers, stumbled upon the area’s perfectly peeling waves. These pioneers rode boards far heavier and less maneuverable than today’s high-performance equipment, yet their connection to the ocean was no less profound.

With no paved roads leading into Nosara, reaching the waves was a feat in itself. Surfers who made the journey stayed for weeks, trading stories under thatched-roof cabanas and living off fresh-caught fish. It was a time of pure, grassroots surfing—no crowds, no surf camps, just the joy of gliding across Nosara’s unspoiled breaks.

The 1980s–1990s: Growing Recognition & The First Competitions

By the 1980s and ’90s, Nosara’s reputation began spreading beyond whispers among traveling surfers. International surf magazines started featuring the area, highlighting the consistency of its waves and the breathtaking beauty of its rugged coastline.

Local surfers started emerging, riding the waves with increasing skill and passion. As Nosara’s surf culture grew, small-scale competitions took root—friendly contests designed to test skill while fostering camaraderie. These local gatherings helped define the spirit of Nosara’s surf scene: less about aggressive competition and more about celebrating the ocean and each other.

The 2000s–2010s: Nosara Becomes a Global Surf Destination

By the early 2000s, Nosara had solidified its status as a must-visit surf destination. The town’s infrastructure improved, making it more accessible without stripping away its off-the-grid charm. Surf camps, schools, and eco-lodges began popping up, catering to travelers eager to experience Nosara’s waves.

With this growth came larger competitions, attracting talent from across Costa Rica and beyond. Local surf organizations worked alongside the community to host events that showcased Nosara’s powerful yet inviting waves. Competitions here maintained a unique vibe—less commercialized than other surf hubs, reinforcing the town’s deep-rooted connection to nature and sustainability.

The Present & Future: A Thriving Surf Culture

Today, Nosara is an internationally recognized surf sanctuary. Its lineup blends seasoned professionals with first-time wave riders, each drawn to the magic of its beaches. Local surf competitions remain an integral part of the town’s culture, fostering youth development while welcoming pros eager to test their skills.

Yet Nosara’s surf identity remains true to its origins—respect for the ocean, a laid-back approach to competition, and a community driven by shared passion rather than commercial gain. As the town continues evolving, one thing is certain: Nosara will always remain a place where surfing is more than sport—it’s a way of life.

Whether paddling out at Playa Guiones or watching the sunset over the waves, every surfer in Nosara knows they’re part of something timeless—something that started decades ago and will continue for generations to come.