Nosara, Costa Rica

This place is not for the faint of heart. Despite its reputation as a surf and yoga mecca, Nosara's population has almost doubled to 9,412 since 2011, straining the infrastructure. The town center sits 6 km from the beach, and there's little development directly on the sand due to protected turtle habitats. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with no hospital and only a Red Cross clinic.

Getting around is a challenge too, as most residents rely on motorcycles rather than cars. As a traveler, renting an ATV or golf cart may be easier than navigating the jungle-surrounded town. If you can handle the logistical hassles, Nosara offers world-class surfing and yoga - but it's not for those seeking creature comforts.