Blue Zone surf and wellness towns with a small-town feel.
The Nicoya Peninsula represents one of Costa Rica's most diverse investment regions, attracting a broad mix of North American (55%), European (35%), and Latin American (10%) investors seeking authentic experiences and specialized communities. The market features striking variation between sub-regions, with properties in established areas typically selling within 4-8 months while more remote locations may require 6-12 months for proper market alignment.
Appreciation
Average annual appreciation of 5-15% over the past decade, with significant variation by location—Nosara and Santa Teresa achieving 10-15% in recent years while more established areas like Sámara demonstrate steady 5-8% growth.
Highlights
Popular property types
Every market we cover in the region
Surf town
Surf and wellness, with a strong international community.
Appreciation
8-12%
Rental yield
6-9%
Our grade
B+
Explore Nosara →
Fishing village
Coastal Beauty & Emerging Investment Potential
Appreciation
7-10%
Rental yield
5-9%
Our grade
B
Explore San Juanillo →
Surf town
A fashionable surf town with the highest high-season occupancy on our list.
Appreciation
8-12%
Rental yield
5-8%
Our grade
A
Explore Santa Teresa →
Region-wide ranges, USD
Average prices
Ocean-View Homes
$275,000-$1,200,000
Development Land
$120,000-$750,000
Inland Homes
$175,000-$650,000
Rental yield by property type
Commercial Properties
6-10%
Luxury Vacation Rentals
7-11%
Long-term Residential Rentals
4-6%
Grade B+ · Established market
Nosara is best for wellness-focused families and digital nomads drawn to yoga, surf and a protected-jungle lifestyle.
Occupancy high / low
66% / 39%
Good fit for
Grade B · Emerging market
San Juanillo is best for buyers looking for privacy and long-term land investors who want untouched, off-the-grid coastline.
Occupancy high / low
46% / 24%
Good fit for
Grade A · Established market
Santa Teresa is best for young international buyers and boutique hospitality investors chasing surf, creative energy, good restaurants and a relaxed beach lifestyle.
Occupancy high / low
70% / 49%
Good fit for
Richard Bexon has been tremendously helpful to us. We knew nothing about Costa Rican real estate, but Richard patiently explained the advantages and disadvantages of different locations. He then efficiently guided us through the negotiations and closing for our beautiful new property. All along he has been energetic, knowledgeable and very responsive to our many questions.
Jon Marshall
Investor
Free consultation
No obligation. No sales pressure.
Why choose Investing Costa Rica?
We protect your interests with thorough due diligence and compliant investment structures.
Independent financial expertise you can trust. We are dedicated investment advisors, not realtors.
Proven market expertise with over $1 billion in managed sales throughout Costa Rica.
Extensive portfolio of success with more than 100 completed investment projects.
Our strategic approach generates reliable yields that outperform many traditional investment vehicles.
We continuously monitor and adapt to changes in market opportunities, investment regulations and economic conditions.
