Is Tamarindo or Nosara More Expensive?

Nosara tends to be slightly more expensive overall, but the value equation changes dramatically when you stay in a vacation rental with a kitchen instead of a hotel. You can actually spend less in Nosara than Tamarindo with the right approach.

Nosara's reputation for higher prices comes from its focus on boutique accommodations, wellness retreats, and eco-tourism. There are no budget hostels or all-inclusive resorts here - it's part of what makes Nosara so popular with travelers seeking an unspoiled experience. Tamarindo has a wider range of options, including some cheaper hotels and backpacker spots.

But here's the thing: staying in a Nosara vacation rental with a full kitchen changes the math completely. Instead of paying $15-25 per person for breakfast at a restaurant every morning, you can make smoothies, eggs, and coffee at home. Cook a few dinners in and you've easily saved $50-100 per day for a family or group of friends.

Restaurant prices in Nosara range widely depending on what you're after. You can get one of the best burritos of your life at Burrito Amor for around $15. Fine dining spots like Sendero Kitchen (located right next to our rentals) run $40-60 for dinner. Local "sodas" (small family-run eateries) offer traditional Costa Rican casados for $6-10. Groceries in Nosara are well-stocked at Super Nosara and other local markets.

The bottom line: if you're comparing hotel-to-hotel, Nosara will cost a bit more. But if you're comparing a vacation rental in Nosara to eating every meal at Tamarindo restaurants - Nosara might actually save you money while giving you a far better experience.