Costa Rica has earned a spot on Forbes’ list of top 10 adventure travel destinations for 2026, with Nosara in Guanacaste standing out for its surf opportunities and commitment to sustainable practices. The recognition comes as adventure tourism gains traction worldwide, drawing travelers who seek active experiences in natural settings.
The Forbes article, released late last month, ranks 10 locations around the world that offer unique outdoor pursuits. Nosara joins places like the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador, Ciudad Perdida in Colombia, Dominica in the Caribbean, Tahiti in French Polynesia, Antigua in Guatemala, Huaraz in Peru, the fjords of Norway, Uyuni in Bolivia, and Jungfrau in Switzerland. Each site focuses on activities that connect visitors with the environment, from hiking ancient ruins to exploring salt flats.
For Nosara, Forbes points to its position in a quieter part of Guanacaste, where visitors find fewer crowds than in other coastal areas. The town provides access to some of the strongest surf breaks in the region, appealing to beginners and experts alike. Playa Guiones serves as a central point, with consistent waves that support year-round surfing. Local businesses enhance the experience through surf schools, specialized lodging, and guided operations that emphasize skill-building in a relaxed atmosphere.
Sustainability plays a key role in Nosara’s appeal, according to the ranking. Many operations run as family-owned ventures that prioritize environmental care, aligning with Costa Rica’s broader reputation for conservation. This approach helps preserve the area’s natural features while offering travelers a way to engage responsibly. Forbes notes that as some coastal spots in the country see more visitors, Nosara maintains a sense of seclusion, making it easier to enjoy uncrowded waves and nearby trails.
This inclusion reflects growing interest in adventure travel, a sector valued at over $400 billion globally and expected to expand by nearly 17 percent annually through the end of the decade. In Costa Rica, such recognition supports economic growth in communities beyond major hubs. Nosara’s focus on surf and nature positions it to attract international visitors who stay longer and contribute more to local economies.
Tourism officials here see the Forbes nod as a chance to promote Guanacaste’s diverse offerings. The region already draws people for its beaches, wildlife, and outdoor options, but highlights like this one spotlight lesser-known spots. Nosara’s surf ecosystem, including facilities with instructors and equipment rentals, caters to all levels, fostering a community where locals and visitors share the water.
Travelers heading to Nosara can expect a mix of adrenaline and tranquility. Beyond surfing, the area offers yoga sessions, wildlife spotting, and beach walks amid protected zones. Accommodations range from boutique hotels to eco-friendly stays, many integrating surf programs directly. One example includes clubs that provide lockers, showers, and access to boards, creating a seamless setup for daily sessions.
As 2026 begins, this ranking may increase visits to Nosara, prompting local efforts to balance growth with preservation. Community leaders have long worked to maintain the town’s low-key character, making sure development supports rather than overwhelms the environment. For Costa Ricans, the feature affirms our country’s strengths in delivering memorable, nature-based trips.
The full Forbes list encourages planning ahead for these destinations, as adventure travel often requires bookings for guides and permits. In Nosara, operators prepare for the uptick by expanding sustainable initiatives, such as reef protection and waste reduction programs.
