One of the best parts about staying at Sendero is feeling immersed in Nosara’s lush, tropical surroundings. From your morning walk to the beach to your sunset cocktail by the pool, you’re surrounded by a variety of native trees and plants: each with its own story, beauty, and role in the local ecosystem. Here are five you’re likely to spot during your stay.
1. Guanacaste Tree (Enterolobium cyclocarpum)
Costa Rica’s national tree, the guanacaste, is hard to miss. Its massive canopy provides shade for wildlife (and humans) during the sunniest parts of the day, and its distinctive ear-shaped seed pods make it easy to identify. These trees can live for centuries and are a symbol of stability and longevity in Costa Rican culture.
2. Ceibo Tree (Pseudobombax septenatum)
Standing tall with a striking, smooth trunk often streaked in green and brown, the ceibo tree is a seasonal showstopper. In the dry season, it drops its leaves and bursts into clusters of bright pink or red flowers that draw birds and insects from all around.
3. Pechote (Enterolobium schomburgkii)
Known for its thorny trunk and branches, the pechote is a native tree that thrives in tropical dry forests. Its trunk looks like a crocodile’s back! It produces small flowers and pods, and its tough nature makes it a resilient species in Costa Rica’s varied climate.
4. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
This vibrant flowering plant is a favorite around town. Its large, colorful blooms come in shades of red, pink, yellow, and orange, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Hibiscus tea, made from the petals, is a refreshing drink enjoyed throughout Costa Rica.
5. Almond Tree (Terminalia catappa)
Often found near the beach, the almond tree provides shade and drops large, glossy leaves that turn red before falling. Its fruits feed local wildlife, and its sturdy branches make a perfect perch birds and monkeys.
Take a Closer Look
Next time you’re wandering Sendero’s property or walking the trails around Playa Guiones, keep your eyes open for these native trees and plants. They’re not just beautiful, they’re a living part of the unique ecosystem that makes Nosara so special. Ready to plan your vacation to Nosara, Costa Rica? Let’s make it happen. Reach out to book your stay with us today.
