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the gilded iguana surf hotel

Pacific North Coast / Guanacaste · Costa Rica

Playa GuionesView location

9.8/10Excellent423 Reviews
Cleanliness10.0/1010.0
Service9.8/109.8
Comfort10.0/1010.0
Condition10.0/1010.0
Neighborhood9.6/109.6
Amenities9.6/109.6
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Room prices, availability, meal plans and cancellation terms are confirmed for your selected dates.

About the gilded iguana surf hotel

Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. You can take advantage of recreational amenities such as an outdoor pool and a fitness center. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands.

Guests can catch a ride to nearby destinations on the area shuttle (surcharge). Enjoy a meal at the restaurant, or stay in and take advantage of the hotel's room service (during limited hours). Unwind at the end of the day with a drink at the bar/lounge or the poolside bar.

A complimentary continental breakfast is served daily from 7:00 AM to 10 AM. Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in Nosara?

This hotel has 915 square feet (85 square meters) of space consisting of a conference center and meeting rooms.

Read more about this hotelShow less

With a stay at The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel in Nosara, you'll be by the ocean, just steps from Frog Pad and a 3-minute drive from Nosara Spanish Institute. This beach hotel is 1.8 mi (3 km) from Playa Pelada and 3.1 mi (5 km) from Nosara Beach.

Make yourself at home in one of the 29 guestrooms featuring minibars. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access is available. Private bathrooms have rainfall showerheads and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include safes and desks, as well as phones with free international calls.

Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in Nosara? This hotel has 915 square feet (85 square meters) of space consisting of a conference center and meeting rooms.

A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge (available 24 hours), and free self parking is available onsite.

Popular amenities

Free WiFi
Parking available
Airport transfers
Dining services
Concierge
Laundry
Spa
Gym
Entertainment
Beach services
Non-smoking
Childcare
Business facilities
Banquet facilities
Transportation services
Accessible facilities

Check-in and check-out

Check-in from 3:00 PM
Check-in until midnight
Check-out until 12:00 PM
Minimum check-in age 18

Hotel policies

Beach nearby No elevators By ocean Professional property host/manager Pets not allowed Service animals not allowed

Cleaning and safety

Sanitization
Contactless check-out is available

Important information

  • You need to know
    • Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments. Reservations can be made by contacting the hotel prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation.
    • The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.
    • No pets and no service animals are allowed at this property.
    • Contactless check-out is available.
  • Special Instructions
    This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply). To arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation. Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property. Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools.
  • Instructions
    • Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
    • Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
    • Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
    • This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
    • This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
    • Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
    • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Minimal age
    18
  • Optional fees
    • Airport shuttle fee: USD 180.00 per vehicle (one-way, maximum occupancy 4)

    The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.

  • Spoken Language

    English

    Spanish

Nearby attractions

Frog Pad 0.1 km / 0.1 mi
Guiones Beach 0.3 km / 0.2 mi
Safari Surf School 1 km / 0.6 mi
Playa Pelada 1.3 km / 0.8 mi
Nosara Spanish Institute 2.3 km / 1.5 mi
Nosara Biological Reserve 3.4 km / 2.1 mi
Nosara Beach 4.3 km / 2.7 mi
Garza Beach 7.3 km / 4.5 mi
Playa Ostional 13.2 km / 8.2 mi
Playa Barco Quebrado 16.7 km / 10.4 mi
Playa Barrigona 17 km / 10.5 mi
San Juanillo Beach 18.1 km / 11.2 mi
Playa Cocal 18.4 km / 11.5 mi
Playa Pleito 18.5 km / 11.5 mi
Buena Vista Beach 19.1 km / 11.9 mi

Hotel facilities & services

Services and fees can vary. Check the selected room details and hotel policies before booking.

  • Total number of rooms: 29
  • hotel
  • Wheelchair-accessible
  • Car park
  • 24-hour reception
  • Check-in hour
  • Check-out hour
  • Wired Internet
  • Wi-fi
  • Airport Shuttle
  • Laundry service
  • Multilingual staff
Show 27 more facilities & services
  • Hotel safe
  • Newspaper stand
  • Shop
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Concierge
  • Luggage room
  • Clothes dryer
  • Bikes available
  • Bar
  • Restaurant
  • Poolside snack bar
  • Conference room
  • Meeting room
  • Outdoor freshwater pool: 1
  • Children’s swimming area
  • Sun loungers
  • Parasols
  • TV lounge
  • Spa treatments
  • Breakfast
  • Continental breakfast
  • Snacks
  • Non-smoking establishment
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
  • Fitness
  • Surfing
Meal plans

Meal plan types

Meal options depend on the room and rate you choose. Search your dates to see which meal plans are included.

BB

Bed & Breakfast

BED AND BREAKFAST

Breakfast is included with your stay.

Upon availability

Room types

These are the hotel's room types, rather than live offers. Choose your travel dates to see available rooms, prices and booking conditions. Check availability

  • SUITE QUEEN SIZE BEDSUITE • QUEEN SIZE BEDSUI.QN-1

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    the gilded iguana surf hotel

    SUITE QUEEN SIZE BED

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–8 • Adults: max. 8 • Children: max. 5
    Room type
    SUITE
    View / characteristic
    QUEEN SIZE BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: SUI.QN-1

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE STANDARDDOUBLE • STANDARD • 1 Bedroom • 35 m²DBL.ST
    DOUBLE STANDARDPhoto unavailable13 photos

    the gilded iguana surf hotel

    DOUBLE STANDARD

    Room photos

    13 photos

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    35 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    STANDARD

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.ST

    Room amenities

    • Hairdryer
    • Direct dial telephone
    • Internet access
    • Minibar
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Centrally regulated air conditioning
    • Safe
    • Toiletries
    • Desk
    • Slippers
    • Fan
    • Housekeeping
    • Soundproof room

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi
    • Extra beds on demand

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE PREMIUMDOUBLE • PREMIUM • 1 Bedroom • 56 m²DBL.PI-2
    DOUBLE PREMIUMPhoto unavailable11 photos

    the gilded iguana surf hotel

    DOUBLE PREMIUM

    Room photos

    11 photos

    Room overview

    Smoking room
    Room size
    56 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    PREMIUM

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.PI-2

    Room amenities

    • Hairdryer
    • Direct dial telephone
    • Internet access
    • Minibar
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Centrally regulated air conditioning
    • Safe
    • Balcony
    • Toiletries
    • Desk
    • Slippers
    • Fan
    • Housekeeping
    • Soundproof room

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi
    • Extra beds on demand

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE PREMIUMDOUBLE • PREMIUM • 1 Bedroom • 56 m²DBL.PI
    DOUBLE PREMIUMPhoto unavailable10 photos

    the gilded iguana surf hotel

    DOUBLE PREMIUM

    Room photos

    10 photos

    Room overview

    Smoking room
    Room size
    56 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    PREMIUM

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.PI

    Room amenities

    • Hairdryer
    • Direct dial telephone
    • Internet access
    • Minibar
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Centrally regulated air conditioning
    • Safe
    • Balcony
    • Toiletries
    • Desk
    • Slippers
    • Fan
    • Housekeeping
    • Soundproof room

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi
    • Extra beds on demand

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE TWO DOUBLE BEDSDOUBLE • TWO DOUBLE BEDSDBL.2D

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    the gilded iguana surf hotel

    DOUBLE TWO DOUBLE BEDS

    Room photos

    Photos are not available for this room type.

    Room overview

    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–4 • Adults: max. 4 • Children: max. 3
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    TWO DOUBLE BEDS

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.2D

    Limited room details from hotel

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE PREMIUM KING BEDDOUBLE • PREMIUM KING BED • 1 Bedroom • 52 m²DBL.KG-PI
    DOUBLE PREMIUM KING BEDPhoto unavailable10 photos

    the gilded iguana surf hotel

    DOUBLE PREMIUM KING BED

    Room photos

    10 photos

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    52 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    King-size bed 150-183 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    PREMIUM KING BED

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.KG-PI

    Room amenities

    • Internet access
    • Hairdryer
    • Soundproof room
    • Housekeeping
    • Fan
    • Slippers
    • Desk
    • Toiletries
    • Safe
    • Centrally regulated air conditioning
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Minibar
    • Direct dial telephone

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Extra beds on demand
    • Wi-fi

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

  • DOUBLE PREMIUMDOUBLE • PREMIUM • 1 Bedroom • 52 m²DBL.PI-1
    DOUBLE PREMIUMPhoto unavailable11 photos

    the gilded iguana surf hotel

    DOUBLE PREMIUM

    Room photos

    11 photos

    Room overview

    Non-smoking room
    Room size
    52 m²
    Occupancy
    Guests: 1–2 • Adults: max. 2 • Children: max. 1
    Bed setup
    Double bed 131-150 width
    Bedrooms
    1
    Room type
    DOUBLE
    View / characteristic
    PREMIUM

    Adult and child limits apply within the room's total guest limit.

    Room code: DBL.PI-1

    Room amenities

    • Fan
    • Safe
    • Centrally regulated air conditioning
    • Tea and coffee making facilities
    • Minibar
    • Internet access
    • Direct dial telephone
    • Hairdryer
    • Soundproof room
    • Housekeeping
    • Toiletries
    • Desk
    • Slippers

    Facilities with extra charge

    • Wi-fi
    • Extra beds on demand

    Available rooms, prices and included facilities are confirmed after you choose your dates and rate.

Guest reviews

What other guests saying about the gilded iguana surf hotel

9.8
Excellent
423 Reviews
Cleanliness
10.0 /10
Service
9.8 /10
Comfort
10.0 /10
Condition
10.0 /10
Neighborhood
9.6 /10
Amenities
9.6 /10
100 reviews shown
10/10
Exceptional
17 Jul 2026
Jeremy Lynn
This hotel is awesome! We love staying here.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
10 Jul 2026
Deborah L
Fabulous property and location. Staff were awesome, especially Francisco. Lots of restaurants and bars close by, if you want to try something outside the resort. Very safe and quiet area. A couple of things, one the roads are not all paved and the dirt ones are very rough. Two, great for families, but a few too many kids during our stay. Next time, we probably go adults only.
Friends
10/10
Exceptional
09 Jul 2026
Corry
Great property. Rooms and facilities are excellent. Staff are top notch across the board from front desk to housekeeping. The North end of Nosara has become very crowded and super touristy. Thats the only negative to staying here.
10/10
Exceptional
09 Jun 2026
Adriana
Great Hotel
Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
17 May 2026
Lysandre
This is my go to surf Hotel in Costa Rica! I love everything about it! Can’t wait to go back!
Business Friends
10/10
Exceptional
07 May 2026
Lisa Ann
The food all was good, the staff was friendly and welcoming… the room was always cool and well maintained during our stay…
Family
10/10
Exceptional
05 May 2026
Thomas
Still great place as usual! Not my first and still wonderful desk crew and seevers
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
04 May 2026
Sergio
Wonderful pool and restaurant!
Perfect place and beautiful Sunset!
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
03 May 2026
Scott
The property is in a great location, very close to the beach ( a short walk down a pathway), excellent staff, and fabulous breakfast that was included in the price for our room. We had a two queen bed room on the second floor with high vaulted ceilings and a beautiful balcony looking out into the forest. The staff was absolutely fabulous. we definitely would love to return for another stay.
Family
10/10
Exceptional
30 Apr 2026
Gregory
Centrally located and could walk the Main Street and to the beach. Hotel was very clean and staff were extremely helpful and friendly. Rooms were clean and had all the amenities needed to enjoy your stay. Breakfast was nice and had enough variety! We would stay there again!
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
28 Mar 2026
Adrienne
The room was wonderful and bright. The staff did an amazing job at cleaning it and keeping it fresh. the entirety of the gilded iguana staff was kind and helpful. the breakfast was delicious and there was a variety of good eat options. the whole resort was well air conditioned and we never felt hot for a second while in our room. The kids club is amazing and the pool is pristine and the perfect temperature. and it is only a five minute walk away from a stunning beach. i definitely recommend the gilded iguana.
Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
23 Mar 2026
Meredith
Incredible property and location. The staff at the surf Club were incredible. The staff at the hotel weren't as friendly. I'd go back for the location and beauty.
Self
6/10
Pleasant
24 Feb 2026
Johan
The room was nice but dark. I suppose the rooms on the second floor are nicer.

The staff didn’t seems to like their job. Or tired of girats maybe.

Nice pool area. Note that this is a family hotel. It is not a calm romantic place.

Breakfast was poor.

I think that americans are the target for this hotel.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
22 Jan 2026
Susan
The room was so comfortable. Just what you want for a beach stay. An incredible shower and big spa like bathroom. A private poolside patio area for reading,eating and gear drying. The common areas are stunning and immaculately kept. The staff is friendly and helpful and the food was fresh and fantastic! My favorite part was the 3 minute walk to the breathtaking beach! The hotel was also only a 15 minute walk to downtown Guiones. I looked at hotels that were more expensive and higher rated and I would stay here again for sure!
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
20 Jan 2026
Myah
Beautiful pools and grounds, the staff had excellent customer service. In particular Francisco and Donovan really made the experience stellar. The rooms were clean and comfortable, a really well thought out space.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
29 Dec 2025
Leeza
Great hotel
Leisure
10/10
Exceptional
18 Dec 2025
Sunil
Fantastic location! Staff was courteous and helpful. Very clean and welcoming. Would go back in a heartbeat.
10/10
Exceptional
08 Dec 2025
Lorne
Great place
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
03 Dec 2025
Kerstin
Close to the best surf beach! We love surfing. Clean and nice hotel.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
01 Dec 2025
Kerstin
Great place with greta ambiance. Nice staff and clean rooms. Close to fantastic surf beach!
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
13 Nov 2025
Gordon
Very friendly attentive staff, comfortable nicely air conditioned room, lovely pool area and gardens.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
08 Nov 2025
Emily Diane
Everything was perfect from beginning to end. I would HIGHLY recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Nosara.
10/10
Exceptional
25 Oct 2025
Elein
Staff were amazing! Very friendly and accommodating.

Aerial yoga class was lot of fun and the instructor was knowledgeable.

Hotel amenities were beautiful and had everything you need.

Highly recommended!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
13 Oct 2025
Christopher
Very nice, clean, property with a friendly staff who are very attentive!
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
02 Oct 2025
Dean
Staff were great . More about Oct time of year. Not much life at the resort. Rooms should have a TV. No real association opportunities with anyone. Looked pretty empty. Not a slam just reality. Nothing really wrong just a sterile vibe
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
27 Sep 2025
Clifford
Friendly staff. Great amenities. Love the garden room with little patio and outdoor shower!
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
02 Sep 2025
James
Great hotel nice staff
10/10
Exceptional
29 Aug 2025
Stenio Caliari
We had a wonderful time during our stay. The property has excellent facilities, everything was very well organized, spotless, and of great quality. Every staff member we interacted with was extremely helpful, kind, and welcoming, which made us feel truly at home. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and we felt well cared for in every moment. We would definitely recommend this place and look forward to coming back!
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
25 Aug 2025
Albert
Repeat guest, we love it.
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
09 Aug 2025
john m
Drinks barely contained alcohol and were mostly ice and @ $21 each that’s ridiculous. Tips were included but when asked the waiter lied and said no they were not. Hotel attempted to charge me for services I did not receive. Some staff could have been friendlier. The housekeeper was excellent. The food was good. The pool was nice
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
12 Jul 2025
Debra
Everyone was super friendly and helpful would definitely go back
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
04 Jul 2025
samuel
awesome safe property hot tub was cold
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
29 Jun 2025
Dr Dorothy

Exceptional quality and customer service

They have customer service now Pat. I have got to be the fussiest traveler and very spoiled because we always stay at a really nice places. There is not one criticism or suggestion I would give the management about our stay. The room was exceptionally clean, large airy high ceilings perfectly working air conditioner fan lovely patio wonderful rainforest shower. They have saltwater pools and fabulous food in their restaurants. All of the staff it provides exceptional customer service especially the front desk staff, the restaurant management and Andres! I don’t know the name of the woman who is at the Apple station for the complementary breakfast but my goodness… She learned after the first day exactly what we order and provided it every time she saw us come into the dining area! Fabulous location because it’s near everything. Loved it and recommended highly❣️
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
17 Jun 2025
katie
Loved the SPA
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
14 Jun 2025
Christian
Very good hotel
Leisure Family_with_children
10/10
Exceptional
12 Jun 2025
Natalya
Great, please!
10/10
Exceptional
22 May 2025
Whitney
Excellent stay at this property. The front desk, custodial and housekeeping staff were fantastic. Location was ideal, and yoga class with Hanna was fantastic! Would definitely stay here again.
Leisure
10/10
Exceptional
14 Mar 2025
Sally
Beautiful hotel.
Leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
13 Mar 2025
Azat
excellent!!!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
27 Feb 2025
Tracy
Amazing all around!! Loved every minute I was there.
Leisure Self
8/10
Excellent
18 Feb 2025
Amanda
The hotel was in a great location and very nice. We enjoyed the included breakfast, the walkability to the beach, shops and restaurants. The staff were very kind and available to help.

The gym is only accessible by reservation and only allows 5 people per hour. And we weren’t able to use the yoga room for our own practice on Sunday because it was closed. We felt like we were on someone else’s schedule trying to fit things in.
The pool area is beautiful but didn’t seem big enough given how many people were using it. And there were a lot of kids which made the pool area loud and not very relaxing for us.

Overall we would recommend this hotel.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
01 Jan 2025
Alexa
Pros
We had an excellent stay at the Gilded Iguana. Staff were very helpful and helped us book surf lessons and board rentals as well as a turtle hatching tour at Ostinal.

Our room was really nice and clean and all the facilities were beautiful.

The restaurant was great and had good food and drinks. The breakfast was more than what you would expect for an inclusive breakfast. I will say there was not a lot of vegan options for breakfast but I was able to easily make changes with the serving staff to accommodate this.

Cons
The street was under construction and it took us forever to find a way to get to the hotel driving around at night with bad road conditions after a long day of travel. It would have been nice if the hotel had messaged us in advance to let us know about the construction and help us with directions.

There is not a lot of parking available at the hotel. We ended up having to park on the street which would have been fine except the street is under construction and in the morning large aggregate trucks were driving past which were dropping rocks. Thankfully we didn’t have any damage.

We booked this room for our honeymoon and I accidentally booked a room with two double beds. I totally get this was my mistake but I did specify it was our honeymoon and it would have been nice to be moved to a king room. That being said the staff left us a dessert and kind note to congratulate us.

Overall would recommend, excellent stay!
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
09 Dec 2024
terry
The Gilded Iguana was a wonderful resort. Staff were friendly and very helpful connecting us with amazing restaurants and experiences in the area. Specifically Coyol Restaurant and Huacas Restaurant provided amazing world class food AND beautiful vistas of both sunsets and the Costa Rican Mountains. A great, relaxing stay
Business_and_leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
07 Dec 2024
Rhonda Marie
The room was beautiful. Wonderful bathroom. Great housekeeping and concierge’s service. 5 stars to Francisco and yoga instructor Juliana.
Leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
17 Nov 2024
Karen
Beautiful location
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
12 Nov 2024
Danielle Celine
Very kind staff and amazing food!
Leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
04 Oct 2024
Timothy
The perfect place to stay! I’ve been visiting Nosara for year, and will keep coming back to the Guilded Iguana!
Leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
13 Sep 2024
Lorine
5 Star property and service.
Beautiful and peaceful. Walkable to beach, shops and restaurants
Highly recommend
Leisure
10/10
Exceptional
01 Sep 2024
Edna

Slick Tile.

We had a great stay. Only problem was the slick tile which got wet from the humidity.
Friends_and_family Family
4/10
Poor
21 Aug 2024
Jeramie
Wouldn’t recommend this place to anyone. It was a joke being waited on by the restaurant staff. The food was awful and it would take the servers 5-10 mins to talk to you then another 5-10 for a drink when there was no one in the restaurant. I got hives from their soap. I asked to check out early and they blamed Orbitz. Orbitz said they would refund any amount that the hotel would give. I left 3 days early after I was rudely turned away from coffee 5 mins after the “breakfast” was served.

Won’t be returning to that hotel, but I did enjoy Nosara.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
20 Aug 2024
Eliana
This was a perfect place to get away- beautiful grounds, a short romantic walk to the beach. The staff is extremely helpful and satisfied all our needs.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
16 Aug 2024
Rhydian

Highly recommended

Outstanding location and setup….the team were all very helpful and organised..faultless and couldn’t recommend highly enough
Friends_and_family Family
8/10
Excellent
14 Aug 2024
Patricia
Prices for food and beverages are too high
10/10
Exceptional
13 Aug 2024
Patricia
Prices on the menu are too high
10/10
Exceptional
05 Aug 2024
Duncan

Wonderful stay

We had a wonderful stay at the Gilded Iguana - the service was wonderful, the room was very comfortable and the overall vibe was great. We particularly loved the outdoor shower in the jungle rooms. Breakfast was good.
Partner
10/10
Exceptional
14 Jul 2024
Kevin
10/10
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
05 Jul 2024
Nilay

Love this hotel. Perfect place in Nosara.

Absolutely amazing hotel, nicest people there, beautiful and clean rooms, and super close to the beach. Restaurant and food is incredible as well!! It's a 11/10....just amazing. We'll go there for sure when we're back in Nosara.
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
31 May 2024
Brittany
This is the best place to stay in this area of Nosara! Beautiful grounds, peaceful atmosphere and aesthetic, many breakfast options included with the stay. Included yoga classes led by experienced and excellent teachers, cruiser bikes were fun to ride, and the longer pool hours are much appreciated. We loved our stay and plan to be back. Would love if in-room coffee was replenished daily with housekeeping services.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
31 May 2024
Jeff

Only place I’d stay in Nosara.

I’ve spent over 100 nights in Nosara over the years and the past few vacations at Gilded Iguana are going to ensure me coming back. This place just keeps Getting better every year. All the women at the front desk are super helpful and make sure your stay is amazing.
10/10
Exceptional
31 May 2024
Sarina
The property and staff are amazing kind and beautiful. Fairly remote location, had a beautiful stay!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
27 May 2024
Susanne Claire
Beautiful property, friendly and helpful staff, incredible food with many gluten free accommodations, and wonderfully working AC in the room (a must for me in warm climates). The concierges were super helpful in arranging dinner reservations, excursions, and transportation.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
05 May 2024
Lisa
This hotel really lived up to expectations. It felt safe and quiet and had lots of options available. We also asked for a last minute transportation and they were able to accommodate which was very appreciated. We would recommend this property
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
28 Apr 2024
Steven
Very nice property, large, well furnished, quiet rooms, beautiful grounds and pool area.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
27 Apr 2024
Kathy
Very nice hotel in Nosara. The surf club didn’t wow us - gal was not very knowledgeable and was more interested in speaking to her friend than helping us. We ended up taking lessons elsewhere and more accessible and less expensive.
Leisure Friends
4/10
Poor
28 Mar 2024
Thomas
Yes.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
27 Mar 2024
Michelle
Just perfect!
10/10
Exceptional
25 Feb 2024
Jean-Guy
.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
13 Feb 2024
david
Bliss and perfection. Beautiful well appointed property with a pool situated close to everything in town and the beach. Professional service, sweet spa. You wont want to leave!
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
23 Dec 2023
meridith
Wonderful stay in nosara. Hotel is lovely and very conveniently located.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
16 Dec 2023
Ellen
Nosara was the 2nd stop for us on our honeymoon and the Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel was an excellent option! We stayed in a yoga room which was very comfortable and had its own outdoor shower as tons of space. The property is beautiful, very clean and newly updated with a wonderful, helpful staff. It’s in an extremely convenient location, right by a trail to the beach, one of the downtown areas with tons of restaurants, bars, shops and nearby fresh juice bars. We walked everywhere except for when we had dinner at La Luna (highly recommend for stunning sunset views and delicious, fresh cuisine). Tamarindo is a very laid back small town that is big on surfing, yoga & wellness. One of the 5 blue zones in the world, the tap water is mineral rich & high alkaline & delicious! This is a very safe town with friendly locals & travelers but be warned that the roads driving into Nosara are rough - many dirt roads with lots of potholes.
Leisure Partner
8/10
Excellent
03 Dec 2023
Kristin
This property was overpriced for what it was. It was nice and clean and the rooms were nice. It is on a very busy street and several blocks from the beach. Membership at the surf club is not included.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
22 Nov 2023
Natalie
Perfect location! Walkable to beach, shopping, and restaurants. Wonderful staff and breakfast was incredible.
Leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
13 Nov 2023
Janson

LOVELY!!!!!!!!

100% recommend. My husband and I stayed here for our honeymoon and had absolutely the most lovely time. We booked in early November because its less crowded and the prices were better. I was worried about that time frame (that it would be too rainy during the tail end of the wet season) but the weather was perfect and wonderful! It rained briefly twice while we were there and did not dampen any of the fun!
Partner
8/10
Excellent
25 Oct 2023
Neal
Staff was very friendly.
Business_and_leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
04 Sep 2023
Anthony
Gilded Iguana is a beautiful property with beautiful amenities, and excellent service all around. The hotel restaurant was great, with wonderful breakfast selections and the best coffee in all of Costa Rica. Travelers please note: the guilded iguana is a surf inspired hotel and caters specifically towards the local surf culture of Nosara.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
02 Sep 2023
Linda
Very cute hotel. Clean and had everything we needed. Staff was extremely friendly and helpful. They go out of their way to book tours etc for you and are excellent with communicating with guests. Breakfast was included and it was delicious with many options. They bring you a big plate of fruit and fresh pasteries before you even order breakfast. Only a 5 minute walk to the beach (if you are there during raining season, you could use a pair of rain boots to navigate the giant puddles if you decide to walk to restaurants and shops). Overall an excellent place.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
09 Aug 2023
Sounantha
This was my third visit to Playa Guiones/Nosara area, but my children’s first visit to CR! The Guilded Iguana surpassed all expectations! We loved the hotel for its friendly, helpful staff, super clean hotel, amazing housekeeping, excellent breakfast, dining options, pool, we can go on! A few minutes to the beach, and we highly recommend the Iguana Surf Club if you’ve never surfed. The staff really takes care of you to ensure you have everything you need so you’re just enjoying your vacation! So many personal touches they added to our stay that really made us feel welcome and special. Kids raved about it too and said they’d love to go back soon!
As well, the location is central to boutique shopping and other restaurants in the area, so you don’t need a vehicle! All in all, we highly recommend The Gilded Iguana for a wonderful stay!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
06 Aug 2023
Daniel
Great property. Beautiful rooms. Excellent location. The only negative is one key per room. When you are traveling with teenagers going in different locations it makes it inconvenient and several times we had to ask staff to let us into the room. First time in my many travels.
Business Family
10/10
Exceptional
09 Jun 2023
KIMBERLY DIANA
Very clean and delicious food. Close to beach. Staff truly friendly.
10/10
Exceptional
26 May 2023
Melissa
This may be my favorite hotel ever, and I travel a lot. I play a game during my stays where I think of things I’d do better if I owned the hotel. I can’t come up with one single thing! Room was amazing and bed was so comfortable. Staff was so friendly. Restaurant was really good. Free breakfast was a full meal. And the prices they charge for food and drinks is so reasonable. The entire upscale surfer vibe really worked for us. I would come back here in a heartbeat. In fact, I’ve already started looking at prices. And internet was perfect. You could easily work with confidence from your room (or even out by the pool). I can’t recommend this place enough.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
18 May 2023
jimmy

Très bien

Nous avons passé un très bon moment en famille, l’hôtel respecter toutes les conditions que ce soit celle d’ Hotels.com ou les leurs nous recommandons fortement cette hôtel
Friends_and_family Family
10/10
Exceptional
28 Mar 2023
Janice
It truly was exceptional! We loved our time here!!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
14 Mar 2023
ronnie
Clean and very helpful staff. Will try to resolve any issues. Cesar was a great help in our stay
6/10
Pleasant
26 Feb 2023
valerie
The hotel is beautiful but there is nothing major about it. Prices of everything is the same ( if not higher ) than an expense s city in the US. The good quality is not great . Service at the restaurant is not friendly and often confused. Nosara is nice - Guiones is a very nice beach but it has lost his true Costa Rican soul. Locals are not friendly and only looking at making more money from US tourists . I would not return to the hotel .
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
25 Feb 2023
Jeff and Rebecca
This place was excellent in every way. I would love to return.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
23 Jan 2023
Mark
The hotel is absolutely great, From the design, to the amenities and all the way to the excellent customer service. I rarely write reviews - but this hotel experience was so good., I had to let people know what a wonderful property this is.

Mark K - Toronto
Business_and_leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
10 Oct 2022
Frederico
The property is stunning and very well maintained.
The pool area is beautiful and there is lots of green everywhere. The property is indeed close to the beach and we really liked the options around. The staff is really friendly and very helpful. We also really liked the restaurant of the property. They offer great options for breakfast and dinner. Pro tip: there is a good local restaurant in front of the property and the food is very good and the cost is a fraction compared to bigger restaurants in the area.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
30 Sep 2022
Donna
Very friendly staff and a beautiful hotel. The restaurant and the pool were my favorite spots!
Leisure Family
8/10
Excellent
30 Sep 2022
Elena
Great stay overall. Staff was nice and accommodating. I wish we had been notified about the ongoing construction, it wasn’t very relaxing by the pool with all of the noise all day long. On the first day someone walked into my room, the hotel too the incident seriously and I felt safe staying at the property. The location is perfect and right next to the beach. A few restaurants, coffee shop and juice bars in a close proximity. Gym schedule was inconvenient and the space is very, very small. I prefer to get my workouts out of the way early in the morning, however there’s are group fitness classes during that time. No treadmills or elliptical machines. The food at the hotel was good and great coffee. I stayed during low season, the hotel was not crowded.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
27 Sep 2022
Patricia
The staff was great. They were knowledgeable and friendly.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
23 Jun 2022
Chelsea
Was truly a magical honeymoon. Thank you for everything.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
12 Jun 2022
hailey
Excellent boutique hotel. The place to stay in Nosara
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
12 Jun 2022
Trevor
Immaculate property and amenities. …Not inexpensive but they deliver on all fronts - rooms, restaurant, poolside vibe, surf club, gym, spa, bike rentals etc. Definitely will be back.
Business_and_leisure Friends
10/10
Exceptional
24 May 2022
Verified traveler
It was an amazing property I would highly recommend anyone wanting to relax on the beach in a very nice modern hotel with excellent service and staff.
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
13 May 2022
Jennifer
If you are looking for that Nosara experience please stay here. It is right in the heart of the hustle and bustle but behind closed doors it's calm and inviting. I enjoyed my stay and wish I could have stayed longer.
Leisure Self
10/10
Exceptional
12 May 2022
Melissa
This is a beautifully and tastefully redesigned property. The staff are wonderfully nice, accommodating and always there to please the guest. I arrived on Mother’s Day and they left happy Mother’s Day flowers in my room. The architecture is fantastic and we would definitely come back. It was the tranquil escape needed.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
28 Mar 2022
Michael
unique boutique hotel in a very cool community!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
25 Mar 2022
ALISHJA A
After a 16 hour travel day door to door, we were met with tart lime sorbet & hot towels. It was so nice! They showed us to our room and we fell asleep right away. The rooms are big and easy to live in! Great beds, very clean and super comfy. I was impressed. I’ve been to a lot of high end hotels- this hotel is on par! The staff was so kind and patient, we had booked a fishing trip the next day and wanted to cancel because we were so tired. The staff said ‘sleep tight and decide in the morning.’ Needless to say we felt amazing in the morning. After a healthy breakfast (We loved the Moringa bowl with fresh fruit. Everything was SO fresh. The banana bread is amazing too) we took off to fish with Sea Saw - the best deep sea fishing charter we have ever been on. Juri and Dori know their stuff. The ride out was so beautiful - we were greeted by flying fish, bottleneck dolphins and caught 4 yellow fin tuna and one enormous MAHI MAHI. When we returned that night we took an evening swim, and enjoyed the night Jasmine that filled the air. It was DREAMY! Next up was my wife’s 55th b day and they left us a nice card with a bottle of red! I mean- so sweet. Enjoy a 90 minute massage at the Gilded Iguana spa. We relaxed to sounds of the jungle. What a cool experience. Surf lessons were magical too, even though we kinda sucked. We cannot wait to go back, we found our happy place.
Leisure Partner
10/10
Exceptional
27 Feb 2022
Anju
Hotel is beautiful and has wonderful staff!
Leisure Family
10/10
Exceptional
27 Jan 2022
maurice
Grounds are beautiful and well laid out. Staff is super friendly and helpful. Great attention to detail all around.
Leisure Family_with_children

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the gilded iguana surf hotel
Playa Guiones, Nosara, Costa Rica

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the gilded iguana surf hotel

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