
The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel
Photos of The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel
Overview
The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel is located in Nosara, Costa Rica and sits directly along the gorgeous white sands. It is unique among the “surf” destinations as it has not been developed and is like a time capsule from the early years of the surf trend in the 1960s. That is not to say that the hotel is a time capsule, too.
It is simply that guests get to savor the natural beauty of the region, as the hotel sits only a few hundred feet from Playa Guiones, a top surfing beach protected by firm environmental laws. The hotel is also dedicated to eco-friendliness and offers an off-the-grid destination.
The hotel is meant to be an authentic destination, and because of that it has all that guests need for a stay. There is a popular restaurant, free WiFi, daily breakfast services, outdoor pools for all ages, a Jacuzzi, event spaces, a concierge, a gift shop, shuttle services, and an array of options for active guests. These include surf school, mountain biking tours, and more. There is also the spa and yoga classes to enjoy.
The restaurant and bar at the hotel have been popular in the area since the 1980s and focus on live music, unique drinks, and fresh, local foods. Vegetarian and vegan foods are always an option and there are even days when brunch is available. For those who want to relax in their rooms, the restaurant delivers to hotel guests.
Rooms range from Surf rooms to Premium and Surfer Suites. All are designed with indoor and outdoor showers, separate living spaces and direct access to the outdoors.
If getting away from it all and enjoying world-class surfing appeals to you, the Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel in Costa Rica is a good choice.
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Amenities at The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel
- Snorkeling
- Outdoor pool
- Spa and wellness center
- Fitness center
- Restaurant
- Bar/Lounge
- Room service
- Free Wi-Fi
- Tea/coffee maker
- Coffee machine
Basics
- Mobile hotspot device
- Wi-Fi available in all areas
- Internet
- Fan
- Fire extinguisher
- Free toiletries
- Smoke alarms
- Air-conditioned
- Free Wi-Fi
- Linens
- Towels
- Shampoo
- Body soap
- Trash cans
- Conditioner
Dining
- Electric kettle
- Grocery deliveries
- Packed lunches
- Special diet menus (on request)
- Restaurant
- Bar/Lounge
- Minibar
- Snack bar
- Tea/coffee maker
- Kettle
- Coffee machine
- Dining area
- Dining table
Things to do
- Gift shop
- Eco tourism
- Beach access
- Fishing
- Board games/puzzles
- Cycling
- Snorkeling
- Evening entertainment
- Horse riding
- Water sport facilities (on site)
- Hiking
Bathroom
- Hairdryer
- Open-air bath
- Public bath
- Private bathroom
- Shower
- Shower cap
- Additional toilet
- Toilet
- Toilet paper
- Walk-in shower
Services and conveniences
- Car rental
- Wake-up service
- Concierge service
- Meeting/Banquet facilities
- Mini-market on site
- Room service
- Tour desk
- Private check-in/check-out
- 24hr front desk
- Safety deposit box
General
- Family rooms
- Interconnected room(s) available
- Lockers
- Storage available
- Seating area
- Sofa
- Soundproof rooms
- Telephone
- Tile/marble floor
Accessibility and suitability
- Entire unit located on ground floor
- Hypoallergenic pillow
- No smoking
- Designated smoking area
- Increased accessibility
- Roll-in shower
- Upper floors accessible by stairs
Pool and spa
- Infinity pool
- Outdoor pool
- Pool towels
- Spa and wellness center
- Saltwater pool
- Massage
Outdoor
- Outdoor furniture
- Garden
- Terrace/Patio
- Beach towels
- Balcony
Laundry
- Laundry facilities
- Ironing service
- Laundry service
- Pants press
- Drying rack for clothing
Bedroom
- Fold-up bed
- Socket near the bed
- Alarm clock
- Clothes rack
- Wardrobe or closet
Family friendly
- Cribs available
- Child pool
- Kids meals
- Complimentary breakfast
Parking and transportation
- Airport shuttle (surcharge)
- Free parking
- Shuttle service (additional charge)
Media and entertainment
- Radio
- Smartphone dock
Workspace
- Laptop safe
- Desk
Health and safety
- Daily housekeeping
Fitness
- Fitness center
Reviews of The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel
Summary of reviews
Score by provider


The questions and answers provided in this section are generated by an artificial intelligence model based on a summarization of user hotel reviews and hotel information.See more
They offer insights and recommendations from previous guests and hotel information to help future visitors enhance their stay at the hotel.
What are the dining options at The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel?
The hotel offers a popular restaurant and bar with live music, unique drinks, and fresh, local foods. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, and there are even days when brunch is served. Additionally, the restaurant delivers to hotel guests.
What can guests expect from the hotel's rooms?
The rooms range from Surf rooms to Premium and Surfer Suites, all designed with indoor and outdoor showers, separate living spaces, and direct access to the outdoors. Guests can enjoy comfortable, contemporary, and clean accommodations.
What are the hotel's unique offerings for active guests?
The hotel provides an array of options for active guests, including surf school, mountain biking tours, spa, yoga classes, and outdoor pools for all ages. It's a perfect destination for those seeking eco-friendly and off-the-grid experiences.
How is the customer service at The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel?
Guests can expect exceptional customer service, with friendly and accommodating staff. The hotel is dedicated to maintaining a clean and safe environment, and the staff go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay.
What are the best times to visit The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel?
The high season is in March, offering a great time to enjoy the beautiful property and the nearby Playa Guiones. However, September is the low season, which may provide a quieter and more relaxed experience.
The questions and answers provided in this section are generated by an artificial intelligence model based on a summarization of user hotel reviews and hotel information.See more
They offer insights and recommendations from previous guests and hotel information to help future visitors enhance their stay at the hotel.
Book a Room with a View
Several guests mentioned that the views from the rooms were spectacular. Opting for a room with a balcony facing the beach comes highly recommended.
Enjoy the Surfing Experience
The hotel is in close proximity to Playa Guiones, a top surfing beach. Guests interested in surfing should take advantage of the surf school and the hotel's location for a memorable surfing experience.
Take Advantage of the Eco-Friendly Offerings
The hotel is dedicated to eco-friendliness and offers an off-the-grid destination. Guests interested in sustainable travel should appreciate the hotel's commitment to environmental conservation.
Explore Nearby Attractions
The hotel is conveniently located near attractions such as Frog Pad, Safari Surf School, and Nosara Wildlife Rescue. Guests should consider exploring these nearby attractions for a well-rounded experience.
Consider Room Selection Carefully
While the hotel offers a range of room options, some guests mentioned that the rooms were contemporary and clean, while others noted that the rooms facing the road were subject to noise from the street. Guests should carefully consider their room selection based on their preferences for views and noise levels.
Indulge in Spa and Yoga Classes
The hotel offers spa and yoga classes for guests to enjoy. Those seeking relaxation and wellness activities should take advantage of these offerings during their stay.
Try Local Foods and Unique Drinks
The hotel's restaurant and bar have been popular in the area since the 1980s and focus on live music, unique drinks, and fresh, local foods. Guests should make it a point to try the local cuisine and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Be Mindful of Noise Levels
Some guests mentioned construction noise and noise from the street as potential drawbacks. Light sleepers may want to consider this feedback and prepare accordingly, possibly by choosing rooms away from potential sources of noise.
Stay Informed About Tides and Important Information
The hotel sends daily WhatsApp messages with the times for low and high tides and other important information. Guests should pay attention to these updates for a more informed and enjoyable stay.
Plan Dining Expectations
While some guests praised the breakfast and restaurant, others found the food to be average and had issues with billing. Guests should manage their dining expectations and communicate clearly with the staff to avoid any misunderstandings.
Location
What's nearby
- Frog Pad81 yd
- Playa Guiones0.3 mi
- Safari Surf School0.4 mi
- Nosara Beach0.5 mi
- Nosara Wildlife Rescue2 mi
Policies
Check-in/Check-out | Check in anytime after 3:00 PM, check out anytime before 12:00 PM |
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Cancellation/prepayment | Cancellation/prepayment policies vary by room type and provider. |
Essential information about The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel
Low season | October |
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High season | January |
Average price (weeknight) | $787 |
Average price (weekend night) | $668 |
When to book a room at The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel
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Nearby hotels and places to stay
Closest
See more nearby staysCheapest
See cheapest stays in NosaraMost recommended
See most recommended stays in NosaraGood to know
Value for money | 8.1 |
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Distance to city center | 2.6 mi |
Nearest Airport | Nosara Beach |
Distance to airport | 2.3 mi |