The Gilded Iguana

Comfort in the Jungle, The Gilded Iguana is the perfect blend between Adventure and Relaxation

In the heart of Nosara, Costa Rica, The Gilded Iguana is a product of its environment–natural and abundant, alive but unrushed. Designed by acclaimed architect Benjamin Garcia Sax and San Jose based interior design firm SOFIA Interiorismo, their hotels rooms feature artisan craftsmanship, offering thoughtfully designed rooms with modern amenities and a lush, relaxing property to enjoy with friends or family, or simply as a solo traveler.

Welcoming adventure seekers, surfers, yoga lovers and world-travelers since 1988, they experience surfing at one of the most consistent breaks in the world, mountain biking through lush jungle treetops, relaxing between the pool and the ocean, and discovering the untouched beauty of Costa Rica. A place to get lost in the beauty of nature for an authentic and grounding getaway experience that offers the best of the jungle and the coast right at your doorstep.

As an integral part of the local community in Nosara, they are proud to call our neighbors both friends and guests, and we look forward to welcoming you into their world. Warm, earthy, discreet, and friendly, the rooms and communal spaces welcome you to disconnect from the rush of life and reconnect with yourself and your immediate surroundings.

Amenities at The Gilded Iguana

Breakfest

Airport shuttle

On-site Restaurant

Surf Club

Athletic Center

Mini-bar

Organic Coffee and Tea

Raw Botanicals

Organic Cotton Bathrobes

Free High Speed Wi-Fi

What to know about The Gilded Iguana

hotel address

Nosara, Costa Rica

closest airport

Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, Costa Rica

from airport

2.5 hour drive

About the Location

Pause and take a deep breath – you’ve found us. Warm, earthy, and discreet, our wonderful haven from the modern world hugs the Nosara coastline, offering breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty of its sublime terrain.

Highlights & Experiences

Surfing Lessons

More than just a surf school, The Surf Club offers an immersive surf experience, complete with lockers, towels, and easy access to one of the world’s most consistent beach breaks. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, the 7km stretch of beach eagerly awaits your arrival

Mountain Bike

At the Mountain Biking Center, find everything you need to get your adrenaline pumping. Located where the mountains of Costa Rica’s tropical coastline meet the sea, forming fun and unique riding terrain. Book any of our two-hour tours to enjoy mountain biking instruction from a personal guide as well as bike rentals, plus a helmet, gloves, hydration, and first-aid assistance.

Horseback Riding

Explore Nosara’s beaches and mountain trails with the memorable experience of horseback riding. You don’t need to be an expert to connect with these beautiful animals and enjoy the incredible landscapes and wonders of nature.

The Kids Club

Welcome to The Kids Club at The Gilded Iguana, a thrilling and fun-filled space where children can explore, play, and learn in a safe and stimulating environment. Here, young adventurers can immerse themselves in outdoor activities, interactive games, and creative projects, nurturing their imagination and making lasting memories.

Snorkeling

Immerse yourself in the magical sceneries of crystal clear water offered in San Juanillo Beach or Pink Sand Island. Experience a spectacle of reefs and colorful fishes where the true beauty of the underwater world awaits you.

Hiking

Enjoy a pleasant walk along the trails of our biological reserve where you will be surrounded by a wide variety of flora and fauna. Connect with the lush Costa Rican ecosystem as you explore the region amongst a range of exotic birds, jungle animals and plentiful vegetation.

Nosara is not a place that you visit once, it’s a place that captures your soul for the rest of your life. The Gilded Iguana provides the chance to take part in its rapid development to ensure more opportunities for the community that lives there permanently.

They supportch rules to limit excessive construction, including building height, land coverage, and lighting pollution in turtle nesting zones. By actively engaging in conservation initiatives, they strive to maintain ecological balance and safeguard biodiversity for future generations. Through ongoing education and outreach programs, they raise awareness about the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of respecting and preserving natural habitats.

The Gilded Iguana implements a carbon offsetting plan via Fonafifo Platform, urging guests to offset their flight emissions. Bioclimatic Design optimizes natural elements like solar orientation and wind currents for comfort, reducing energy usage. Waste recycling with Nosara Recicla minimizes landfill, while architect-designed sustainable measures include water treatment systems, solar hot water, and photovoltaic energy harnessing. A biological wastewater treatment plant recycles waste for plant use, showcasing the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

In their commitment to community welfare, they prioritize the utilization of local materials and craftsmanship, such as certified sustainable teak, and employ local labor whenever possible. By sourcing materials locally, they support regional economies and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Moreover, by employing local artisans and laborers, they foster economic growth and empowerment within the community.

They actively support the local community through various initiatives. Guests contribute to Santa Teresita School, Selva Creativa, Bomberos de Nosara, Costas Verdes, and Nosara Recicla, helping education, emotional well-being, firefighting, environmental protection, and recycling efforts in the area. These partnerships reflect the hotel’s commitment to making a positive impact and fostering sustainability within the community.