Aurora journal
Gel, Rubber Base or Hard Gel? A Nail Guide for Your Santa Teresa Trip
Beach days, saltwater, sunscreen and dinners out: nails on a trip to Santa Teresa have a lot to put up with. Most people want something that looks good in photos and stays neat for the whole stay. But gel, rubber base, hard gel, extensions — what is the difference, and which one should you book?
This guide explains each option in plain words, with our prices at Aurora, Plaza Royal, so you can choose before you send a request.
In this guide
Quick guide: match the service to your nails
| If you want… | Consider |
|---|---|
| A glossy color on your natural nails | Gel manicure |
| A bit more support for thin or bendy nails | Rubber base manicure |
| A firmer, more structured nail | Hard gel manicure |
| More length than your natural nails | Nail extensions |
| Clean, tidy nails without color | Manicure no polish or basic manicure |
| Beach-ready feet | Pedicure |
Not sure? Pick the closest option and tell our team about your nails when we confirm your appointment.
Gel, rubber base, hard gel and extensions
Gel manicure
60 minutes · $50
Gel polish is cured under a lamp, so your nails are dry when you leave — no waiting around with wet polish. It gives a glossy finish and is made to last longer than regular polish. A good choice if your natural nails are in good shape and you simply want color.
Request a gel manicure ›Rubber base manicure
60 minutes · $55
Rubber base is a thicker, flexible base gel applied under the color. It adds a little body to the natural nail, which is why people with thin or bendy nails often choose it. The finish looks like a gel manicure.
Request a rubber base manicure ›Hard gel manicure
60 minutes · $60
Hard gel is a firmer gel used to give the natural nail more structure and strength. Choose it if you want a sturdier nail without adding length.
Request a hard gel manicure ›Nail extensions
90 minutes · Short $75 · Medium / long $105
Extensions add length beyond your natural nail. Short extensions are easier to live with on an active trip; medium and long make more of a statement. Tell our team the length and shape you have in mind when we confirm your time.
Request short extensions › Request medium / long ›Manicure no polish and basic manicure
Manicure no polish: 30 minutes · $30 · Basic manicure: 45 minutes · $45
If you prefer natural nails, a manicure without polish keeps them clean and tidy. The basic manicure is our classic option with regular polish.
Request a basic manicure ›Want a design? Nail art is an add-on: 15 minutes, $15, on top of your manicure.
Pedicure options
- Basic pedicure · 45 minutes · $40 — request
- Gel pedicure · 60 minutes · $50 — gel color on your toes, dry when you leave. Request
- SPA pedicure · 60 minutes · $60 — ask our team what’s included when we confirm. Request
Keeping your nails nice on a beach trip
- Book early in your stay, so you enjoy your nails for the whole trip.
- Don’t pick or peel gel. Peeling it off can take layers of the natural nail with it. Ask a professional for removal.
- Rinse after the ocean or the pool and dry your hands; sand and salt are tough on any finish.
- Moisturize your cuticles — sun and saltwater dry the skin around the nails.
- Choose length for your plans. If you surf or climb, shorter nails are usually more practical.
Prices and how booking works
| Service | Duration | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Manicure no polish | 30 min | $30 |
| Basic manicure | 45 min | $45 |
| Gel manicure | 60 min | $50 |
| Rubber base manicure | 60 min | $55 |
| Hard gel manicure | 60 min | $60 |
| Nail extensions – short | 90 min | $75 |
| Nail extensions – medium / long | 90 min | $105 |
| Nail art (add-on) | 15 min | $15 |
| Basic pedicure | 45 min | $40 |
| Gel pedicure | 60 min | $50 |
| SPA pedicure | 60 min | $60 |
How it works: choose a service, pick a day and time, and send your request online. Our team confirms availability with you. You pay at the salon, in cash or by card — the website never asks for card details.
Where: Aurora, Plaza Royal, Santa Teresa, Costa Rica. Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
See all nail services ›Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between gel and rubber base?
Both give a glossy, lamp-cured finish. Rubber base adds a thicker, flexible base layer under the color, which gives thin or bendy nails a little more support.
How much is a gel manicure at Aurora?
A gel manicure is $50 and takes 60 minutes. Rubber base is $55 and hard gel is $60, also 60 minutes.
Do you do nail extensions?
Yes. Short extensions are $75 and medium or long are $105; both take 90 minutes.
Can I add nail art?
Yes. Nail art is an add-on: $15 and 15 minutes on top of your manicure.
How do I book and pay?
Send a request online with your service, day and time. Our team confirms availability with you, and you pay at the salon in cash or by card.
When is Aurora open?
Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, at Plaza Royal, Santa Teresa. We are closed on Sundays.