The current exchange rate is around 535 colones to the dollar. If you want to pay cash is best to convert some of your dollars to colones. You can do that at a local bank here. The airports exchange counters are usually a rip off. Most places will take dollars but may not give you the best exchange rate either. You can use your credit card just about everywhere. Make sure you tell your bank you are coming to Costa Rica so they don't freeze your card. There are three ATMs in Nosara to get more cash if you need it ( Banco Popular down the street from our shop, Delicias Mundo in North Guiones, BCR by the gas station). I would bring down some just in case.  but keep in mind it only accepts visa friendly cards. The days of $1 beers in the bars are over they are around $5. The cost for most dinners is about $20-$30 per entrée for a really nice meal. Lunches are about $10-20… When you arrive stop by the shop and I’ll give you my favorite spots to go for food and nightlife…Costa Rica has a 13% sales tax on everything so don't be shocked when this is added to your bill. There is also a 10% service charge for tips in restaurants. You should add on another 5-10% for the server in cash. Hope that helps..