Get to Know Aloha Surf Nosara
The story about Aloha Surf Nosara goes beyond vacation rentals — it’s rooted in surf culture, Hawaiian spirit, and a love for life in Guiones. Get to know the founders.
Our Mission
More Than a Stay – A Place to Belong
At Aloha Surf Nosara, our mission is simple: to share the joy of surf, nature, and community through cozy vacation rentals just steps from the waves. We want every guest to feel welcomed like family — to experience the essence of Pura Vida and the Aloha spirit in a place that feels like home.
Nosara Living
Surfing Experience
Vacation Rentals
Our Story
From Oahu to Nosara – How It All Began
What was supposed to be a short stay turned into a lifelong adventure. Tyler bought a piece of land near Playa Guiones and built a home that eventually became the foundation of Aloha Surf Nosara. He married a beautiful Tica, started a family, and even founded one of the area’s first surf schools. In 2003, he organized Playa Guiones’ very first surf tournament, inviting Triple Crown Champion Sunny Garcia from Hawaii.
Together with his wife Arlene, Tyler created a space where guests from all over the world could relax, connect, and surf — while being surrounded by the best of two worlds: Hawaiian warmth and Costa Rican pura vida.
Meet the Founders
Arlene Marsh
Owner & Manager
Tyler Marsh
Owner & Manager
About Tyler
Founder & Surf Soul
I was born and raised in Oahu, Hawaii, and moved to Costa Rica in the 90s. What started as just another surf trip quickly turned into a lifelong journey. I fell in love with the waves, the jungle, the sunsets — and most of all, the Tico culture that reminded me of my own.
My wife and I founded Aloha Surf Nosara to share the lifestyle we cherish with others. We raised our three kids here, alongside my in-laws and our guardian dog Kālā, in the beautiful ‘Āina just steps from the surf. Our blend of Hawaiian and Costa Rican values helps guests feel E komo mai — welcome, safe, and at home. Whether you’re here to ride waves, reconnect with nature, or simply unwind, we’re happy to share this little piece of paradise with you.
Aloha Surf Nosara, No Ka Oi, Mo’ Betta. Mahalo 4-shoots & a hui hou.
Tyler was the founder of the first surf school in Playa Guiones, certified by International Surfacing Association (ISA)
Tyler has surfed around a number of beaches and Islands that included Hawaiian Islands, Tahiti, Fiji, Indonesia, Mexico, Mentawai Island, Maldives, Nicaragua, Panama, El Salvador, and Australia. Tyler was determined to start his own surfing school and accommodation center to assist the tourists to become acquainted with the fun and beauty in the tropical areas. Due to his determination and input, Honuakai came into existence.
He is a well-known and expert surfer, and he is accountable for organizing the first and foremost Tournament of Surfing that featured a surfing champion; Sunny Garcia World Champ 2000.
Real Stories from Our Guests
Over the years, many guests have become part of our extended ‘ohana. Here’s what some of them have shared about their time at Aloha Surf Nosara.
“Excellent service, very central to everything going on, beautiful place, quiet to stay and has everything you need!”
Ginger Ariyeh
“We stayed at Aloha Surf Nosara in early June and absolutely LOVED it! Tyler and his family are so welcoming and accommodating they made our stay even better then expected. Located in the heart of Nosara walking distance from everything we couldn’t have asked for more. We hope to stay at this quaint property for years to come when visiting Nosara!”
Tommy Hart
“We stayed here for 10 days in May 2018. Staying here felt like staying with an old friend. Tyler and his wife were wonderful with recommendations on where to surf, where to eat, and what to do. They’ve been around Nosara for over 20 years and know it like the back of their hand! Plus, the gave us fresh mangoes almost every day.”
Lily Bui
“Whenever I’m in Nosara, I always stay with Tyler and his gang. It’s a super cool place minutes from the break. Twist Tyler’s rubbber arm and you’ll likely be able to surf with him.”
Mike Tingley
About Arlene
Co-founder & Local Host
Our Property
Tucked away in tropical gardens and just a short walk from Playa Guiones, our vacation homes offer the comfort of a home-away-from-home.
Our Location
A Neighborhood with Soul
We’re located in the heart of Playa Guiones on Calle Los Mangos — quiet, central, and just minutes from everything. Walk to surf shops, supermarkets, yoga studios, restaurants, an organic market, or the beach. We’re just steps from the waves and sunsets, and close to basketball courts, a skate park, and tour options like ziplining and fishing.
No car? No problem. We offer rentals of golf carts, ATVs, and bicycles. Want to surf? You can rent surf boards from us and we can hook you up with lessons.
Expect a laid-back, wellness-driven environment with strong ties to nature, culture, and community.
Ready to Join Our ‘Ohana?
Come stay with us, surf with us, and experience Nosara the aloha way.