The Gilded Iguana is the original surfer spot in Nosara, a long-time destination for an international community of surfers seeking an off-the-grid escape. Here, surfers of all ages and experience levels calibrate their equilibrium on the waves off one of the best beaches in Costa Rica, Playa Guiones. We proudly claim many firsts at our Costa Rica hotel: first structure built in Nosara, first telephone in town, and first live music venue. Few things have changed since The Gilded Iguana took on its current form as a hotel, restaurant, and town meeting place in 1988. A new design by acclaimed architect Benjamin Saxe captures our essence and history, while appealing to style-conscious travelers with equal measures of rugged luxury and authenticity. Outside the hotel, Nosara’s natural surroundings and relaxed vibe remain the same – especially its most famous beach, Playa Guiones. Beyond the unpaved roads leading to the expansive seven-kilometer-long stretch of undeveloped white sand and consistent waves, adventure seekers enjoy mountain biking and the world’s longest zip line. And the region’s eco-friendly, all-natural lifestyle rounds out appeal for yoga retreats and a culinary scene that offers freshly-grown produce and just-caught seafood. No matter the reason for your visit, our affordable and contemporary hotel rooms, unique surf school and club, and a destination unlike any other will have you booking a return trip as soon as possible.
The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel’s spacious rooms are designed for guest comfort and an authentic Nosara vacation experience. They include artisanal, handmade elements, custom furniture, and high-end furnishings. Located in the “Surfer Room” area, this room contains two Full Beds, room desk, side tables, closet and storage, private bathroom with glass wall and private garden space. Vaulted, double high ceilings let in tons of light, these rooms are a best value option for those looking to stay at the Gilded Iguana. Also Includes surfboard storage area and rack.
The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel’s spacious rooms are designed for guest comfort and an authentic Nosara vacation experience. They include artisanal, handmade elements, custom furniture, and high-end furnishings. Located in the “Surfer Room” area, this room contains two Full Beds, room desk, side tables, closet and storage, private bathroom with glass wall and private garden space. Vaulted, double high ceilings let in tons of light, these rooms are a best value option for those looking to stay at the Gilded Iguana. Also Includes surfboard storage area and rack.
The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel’s spacious rooms are designed for guest comfort and an authentic Nosara vacation experience. They include artisanal, handmade elements, custom furniture, and high-end furnishings. The Premium King Room features a king size bed, table and chairs, desk, mini bar and fridge, coffee and tea maker. The Premium King Rooms have either an outdoor terrace with outdoor shower, or vaulted ceilings with an outdoor balcony. All rooms have surfboard locker or storage racks.
The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel’s spacious rooms are designed for guest comfort and an authentic Nosara vacation experience. They include artisanal, handmade elements, custom furniture, and high-end furnishings. The Premium Double Queen Room features two queen size beds, side tables, table and wall lamps, mini bar and fridge, coffee and tea maker. The Premium Double Queen Rooms have either an outdoor terrace with outdoor shower, or vaulted ceilings with an outdoor balcony. All rooms have surfboard locker or storage racks.
The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel’s spacious rooms are designed for guest comfort and an authentic Nosara vacation experience. They include artisanal, handmade elements, custom furniture, and high-end furnishings. Located on the upper level, The Premium Plus King rooms feature a King size bed, vaulted ceilings, a table and chairs, outdoor balcony, and extra large bathroom. All rooms have surfboard locker or storage racks.
The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel’s spacious rooms are designed for guest comfort and an authentic Nosara vacation experience. They include artisanal, handmade elements, custom furniture, and high-end furnishings. Located on the upper level, The Premium Plus Double Queen rooms feature two queen beds with side-tables, vaulted ceilings, outdoor balcony, and extra large bathroom. All rooms have surfboard locker or storage racks.
The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel’s spacious rooms are designed for guest comfort and an authentic Nosara vacation experience. They include artisanal, handmade elements, custom furniture, and high-end furnishings. The Surfer Suite is a two room unit designed for surfing families or traveling groups. The main room has a single queen bed, two sets of bunk beds with two single beds each (total of four single beds), closets, storage area. The second room has a living area, kitchenette, table and chairs. There is a large outdoor terrace included in the room. The bathroom features two toilet rooms, double sinks and large shower. With quick access to the Jacuzzi, pool, and restaurant, the Surfer Suite is our most popular room for good reason. All rooms have surfboard locker or storage racks.
The Basics:
For Adventure Seekers:
For Wellness Lovers:
Mediterranean cuisine with Costa Rican fusion.
From breakfast to lunch, dinner, and cocktails, The Gilded Iguana has you covered. Try the fresh catch of the day or a selection of pizzas, pastas, and burgers – and don’t sleep on the casados, a Costa Rican meal of rice, beans, sweet plantains, and salad. We offer vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free options and a kids menu.
For Adventure Seekers:
Indulge yourself in a Nosara, Costa Rica spa experience at The Gilded Iguana. Located between the mountains and the ocean, their natural setting is one of the most relaxing in the world—perfect for unwinding and treating yourself to their Costa Rica yoga spa. We only use Costa Rican sourced organic products to to cleanse and replenish your body.
Unwind in our myriad of soothing services offered at the Spa.
Your dream wedding can become a reality at The Gilded Iguana Hotel. Their experienced coordinators and hotel staff are a dedicated team that specializes in creating your vision. The wedding planning team and their selective vendor network have more than 10 years of experience creating successful, one of a kind events. Celebrate love among all things sun, sand, and surf with a magical beach ceremony and the spectacular reception that you have always dreamed of.