FAQ

What’s the best way to get to the hotel?

Every way is the best way.

Take to the air and see the beauty of the Nicoya Peninsula from above by flying into Nosara’s local airstrip. (NOB). A small, prop-engine aircraft flown by Sansa will get you here in less than an hour from San Jose, and just 20 minutes from Liberia. Our reservations team can make the travel arrangements and simply add the ticket cost to your room bill. When you land, we'll have a team member waiting to get you to get from airstrip to doorstep.

For those who prefer staying on the ground, the 2.5 hour drive from Liberia airport (LIR) takes you through beautiful stretches of jungle, mountains, and pastures, where the slowest-going can be the result of cattle meandering across your path. You’ll arrive via our infamously bumpy roads, but you’ll get an insider’s glimpse into the magic and majesty of Costa Rica.

When is check-in/check-out?

Hotel check-in is 2pm and, even though you’ll want to stay forever, check-out is 11am.

Is the area safe?

We feel very safe here. Guiones is wonderfully small and full of good people. There is a local police station. But still be mindful. As with any place that attracts tourists, it’s good to take care.

How far are you from the beach?

Starting at our back gate, take a 2 minute walk down the quiet sandy path that leads through the trees and shrubs of the coastal forest to reach Playa Guiones. Since we are part of the protected Ostional Wildlife Refuge, you’ll notice there is no development or services located directly on the beach.

Are you able to accommodate special requests?

We are happy to do all we can to make your stay just what you’d like it to be. Please share your requests, or any important information like food allergies, with our reservations team ahead of your arrival.

What about kids?

Harmony was built for connecting, so all generations are always welcome. Families with younger kids tend to join us around the typical school holidays: during these times you will likely see and hear kids enjoying themselves around the property. For those with children, we’ve partnered with an experienced local nanny service that provides babysitting for an hourly charge.  For a full day outing, Nosara Day Camp offers full-day programs that include activities, transportation and a meal - it's often the highlight experience of the trip for little ones!

Is the water safe to drink?

Yes. The water in our area is completely safe to drink. And on the property, we take the extra step of treating our own water supply with a UV light purification system.

Is smoking allowed?

All of our rooms are non-smoking. Additionally, Costa Rican law prohibits smoking in any public spaces (including the entirety of our property).

Is the hotel pet-friendly?

With the exception of service animals, we unfortunately can’t welcome pets for overnight stays. Dogs on leashes are allowed in the restaurant and lobby area.

While we love animals, the native wildlife here is plentiful enough, and they have first dibs on the place.

What is the electricity voltage in Costa Rica? Do we need an adapter?

Costa Rica uses 110 V outlets and you do not need an adapter for US electrical items. We also offer one outlet of 220 V in the bathroom.

Do you offer vegetarian and gluten-free options on your restaurant menu?

Yes, we offer a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options at our restaurant and Juice Bar. And, if you are staying a while and plan to eat often in our restaurant, get in touch with reservations, and our chef can pre-plan a wider selection of vegetarian and/or gluten free menu for you.

How about laundry service?

Absolutely. Basic wash and fold service is available, using biodegradable detergent that keeps things environmentally friendly for our local flora and fauna.

Can we use credit card/US dollar outside of the hotel?

Major credit cards (mainly VISA) are accepted at most places in town, as well as US currency.

Is tipping necessary in Costa Rica?

It’s customary (and appreciated). Restaurants add 10% automatically, and guests typically add another 10-15%. For hotels, a housekeeping tip of $10/night is generally right. Drivers usually get few extra dollars for short rides; tour guides/instructors about $10 per participant. And guests can always leave a tip at the front desk to be divided among Harmony staff members.

What about seeing the turtles?

The Olive Ridley turtles nest year-round on our beaches, so we get a front row seat to the spectacle. Their peak season, however, is September to November, when mass arrivals (“arribadas”) tend to occur a few days before the new moon. Some 45-54 days later their hatchlings emerge and bravely crawl their way to the sea.

What should I pack?

Be mindful of the season in which you’re visiting and pack accordingly. Here’s our short list to get you started:

  • Passport A valid passport is mandatory to enter Costa Rica. It is a good idea to look up the travel requirements from your particular country of residence.
  • Bathing suits
  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sun block
  • Sandals
  • Walking/running shoes
  • Cool, light clothing (long pants and sleeves are useful if you plan on adventure activities)
  • In green season, a light rain jacket is handy, along with bug spray and anti-itch cream for potential mosquito bites.
Can I quit reading yet and book a room?