Moana Surf Resort

Tucked away amid lush grounds abutting Guiones Beach, Moana Surf Resort is an intimate six-room boutique with a private feel and relaxed vibe. A wooden gate opens to thick jungle-like gardens with stone paths and low white buildings, setting the mood for a quiet, nature-centric atmosphere suitable for couples, families, and groups of friends. The property is designed with nature and simplicity in mind. The primary building material used here is local wood, and common spaces are dotted with large pieces of bark as well as with rope hammocks and polished wooden furniture with clean lines that blend in well with the lush outdoors. Along these lines, the Moana Surf Resort goes to great lengths to minimize its impact on the land it occupies and its surroundings and has implemented an array of eco-friendly practices that range from using local, organic and biodegradable toiletries and environmentally conscious cleaning supplies to recycling programs and the absence of single-use plastics on-site.

The Moana Surf Resort is known for its excellent surf lessons, but unlike other properties in the area, which focus either on yoga or surf, this boutique offers great perks for all types of traveler: there are a pool, a yoga studio, Spanish lessons, massage services, and ample common areas for those who just want to relax. Plus, its within walking distance of dining and shopping, which is a huge plus that not all properties in the area offer. 

Moana Surf Resort is located in a quiet area on the northern end of Guiones Beach. This beautiful stretch of sand is known for its excellent surf and lovely jungle background, and there are several other small hotels lining the beach in the immediate vicinity. Though slightly set back from the water -- local regulations are strict about how close to the ocean buildings can be -- the property has its own private access to the beach through a small path flanked by thick jungle. Aside from its easy access to world-class surf spots and clear waters, the hotel is also convenient for those who don’t want to rent a car, as it is within walking distance of many restaurants and shops. Getting to Nosara requires a domestic flight from San Jose (plus a 10-minute drive from the local airport to the hotel), or a two-and-a-half-hour road transfer from Liberia Airport. 

The hotel has only six rooms, ranging from spacious studios with kitchenettes to three-bedroom suites with full kitchens. All are decorated in a simple, streamlined style that combines off-white floors and walls with natural, local wood in furniture and, in top-floor units, ceilings. Ample closets in white wood, clean lines throughout, and a muted palette make for pleasant, comfortable spaces that feel airy and uncluttered. Small black-and-white photos of nature is all there is in the way of wall decorations, but large windows bring the outdoors in, offering views of either the jungle or the ocean in the distance. A few rooms have spacious balconies with loungers and/or hammocks. 

Each unit is equipped with at least a small kitchenette with a stovetop, fridge, microwave, and all utensils and crockery necessary to whip up a simple meal. Larger units feature full kitchens with ovens. Dining areas range from breakfast bars with stools in entry-level categories to big tables in the living rooms with space for up to eight guests. All rooms also come with air-conditioning units and fans, plus large smart TVs, free fiber optic Wi-Fi, and laptop-sized safes. Bathrooms are simple and clean, featuring walk-in showers with glass screens, spacious sink areas with drawers, and custom-made biodegradable toiletries. 

A varied, healthy breakfast is served every morning free of charge in an open-air room with wooden swings, two bars with stools, a daybed, and jungle views. The spread -- which changes daily -- includes made-to-order eggs, fresh fruit, meats and cheese, pastries, smoothies, and local favorites such as gallo pinto. No other meals are served on-site. The pool is small and better suited for a refreshing dip than for swimming laps, but it is lined with wooden cabanas, loungers, and rope hammocks, making it a great spot for a relaxing break from the sun. 

One of the main draws here is the hotel’s renowned surf lessons, which are available for all levels and are taught by experienced coaches. Other surf activities available on-site are surf trips, surf photography and video, and stretching sessions, plus a special program for kids ages 5 to 12. All equipment is included in the class rate. Yoga classes are offered daily for a fee in an open-air studio that looks out over the jungle, and private aerial yoga sessions can be booked for an additional charge. Spanish lessons and massage services are also available for a charge.