Last Updated: November 28, 2024
Many of the beach towns in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste Province have become extremely popular over the years due to their gorgeous sands and turquoise waters. Development has hit the northern Pacific coast, and those interested in luxury condos and world-class cuisine don’t have to look far. But for others seeking a more authentic visit to Costa Rica, there is Samara. While Samara has its share of amenities, it still has a local vibe and small beach-town feel. In this post, we’ll give our tips for getting the most out of your visit to Samara, including recommendations for hotels, things to do, and restaurants.
About Samara
Samara is located in Guanacaste Province on the northern Pacific coast. It is about two hours from Liberia International Airport (LIR). The drive from the airport is along all paved roads, making it is an easy destination to reach.
One of the main draws of Samara is its centrally located downtown. The downtown abuts the beach and is full of restaurants, trendy boutique shops, tour operators, and some small hotels.
Another draw is its surrounding forest and wildlife. Unlike areas to the north, thick tropical dry forest borders Samara. Even on hotel grounds, you can find animals like monkeys, iguanas, and many kinds of birds.
Samara’s biggest attraction is its beautiful beach. Playa Samara attracts all types of travelers with its rows of palm trees and light tan sand. You will find 20-somethings grabbing a beer at one of the beachside bars, couples strolling at sunset, and children at play in the calmer ocean waters.
Tip: If you’re looking for a more developed beach town in Guanacaste, consider Tamarindo, Playa Flamingo, Playas del Coco, or Playa Hermosa.
Getting to Samara
Taking a Shuttle
What’s great about Samara is its relatively easy access. If you’re staying near the main area of town, you don’t necessarily need a car to get around. Shuttles to and from the airport are easy to arrange. Then you can walk, rent a bike, or take taxis to get around locally.
If you need help booking an airport shuttle, we work with an excellent local transportation company. Our Private Shuttle page has more information.
Renting a Car
If you plan on exploring, a rental car is really nice to have. This will let you check out smaller beaches to the north and south and also let you access some lesser known attractions.
You don’t need a 4×4 for most things to do in the Samara area.
Be sure to check out our Rental Car Discount through one of the most reliable companies in Costa Rica to save 10% and get free extras like a second driver and car seats for kids.
Things to Do in Samara
While many people visiting Samara do little more than hang out at the beach, there are plenty of things to do. Here are some activities that will show you hidden waterfalls, beaches, and nature-filled forest.
Also be sure to check out our Samara Activities Guide. It has even more options, like an awesome kayak-snorkel tour to a white-sand island and other lesser-known local hikes. Plus tips on booking with the best tour companies.
Beaches
The main beach, Playa Samara, is the area’s most popular and for good reason.
The wide cove has relatively calm water due to a coral reef just offshore. This makes it a decent place to swim and also enjoy water sports. It’s one of the better beaches in Costa Rica for families.
Playa Carrillo is more of a locals’ beach, just to the south. This beach is also very pretty, with light sand, rows of palms, and calm waves for swimming. It doesn’t have the amenities of Playa Samara like restaurants and tour operators so be sure to bring everything you need for the day.
To learn more about this beach, read our post, Playa Carrillo: A Favorite Locals’ Beach in Guanacaste.
Playa Barrigona is farther from town and accessible if you have a rental car. This beach is the site of Mel Gibson’s seaside estate and considered by many to be the most beautiful in the area.
Although it is a trek to get to along rough, dirt roads, we were impressed once we arrived. The sand is bright white, the water is intensely blue, and it feels far removed from civilization.
If you venture to Playa Barrigona, bring everything you need as there isn’t anything for miles. Don’t leave valuables in your car as there have been problems with theft. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially for the rainy season.
Directions to Playa Barrigona: Playa Barrigona is 1 km off the main road that goes to Nosara. The entrance was unmarked at the time of our visit. During the dry season, you can take the shortcut through the riverbed from Samara and get there in 15-20 minutes.
In the rainy season, it will take a bit longer via the inland route up Route 160 and over the Buena Vista River Bridge.
Hiking at Werner-Sauter Biological Reserve
This is one of the only options for hiking in the area. The Werner-Sauter Biological Reserve is a 140 hectare (346 acre) private reserve just outside Samara. Here, you can discover the tropical dry forest and learn from an expert guide why it is such an important, though often overlooked, ecosystem.
In between observing the Reserve’s abundant wildlife like monkeys, porcupines, and owls, you will climb to a lookout with an amazing view of the beach and forest.
We loved our trek through the Reserve. We couldn’t believe how much wildlife we saw and how much we learned, even after hiking throughout Costa Rica.
The hike through the Werner-Sauter Reserve is moderately difficult and you need a guide to visit.
For more information, read our post, Samara Trails: Exploring the Tropical Dry Forest.
Water Activities
Surfing
The gentle waves at Playa Samara are perfect for beginner surfers, including kids.
There are several different surf companies along the main beach in Samara. Lessons are around $60-80 per person, depending on if you want a group or private lesson.
Dolphin Watching-Snorkel Tour
A fun way to explore the scenic coastline near Samara is on a boat tour. Not only do these tours get you out on the water, but dolphins can be seen in and around the bay year-round. When we did this tour, bottlenose dolphins were swimming right under the boat, catching the waves. You also can see whales seasonally.
The tour includes some time for snorkeling. Conditions vary, but you can usually see a decent amount of fish.
Dolphin watching tours are around $60 per person. If you have a group, you can even rent the whole boat. Learn more with our post, Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling in Samara.
Belen Waterfall
Only 20 minutes from downtown Samara is the Belen Waterfall. This small cascade and series of swimming holes is a popular spot among locals, yet few tourists know about it. The entrance is located in the middle of the countryside and is unmarked. There are no facilities and you will find only a rustic trail that leads to the river.
Important: We recommend visiting this waterfall during the dry season only (approx. late December to early April) for safety reasons.
Read our post, Belen Waterfall: A Hidden Swimming Hole Near Samara, for more information.
Horseback Riding
Another fun way to experience Samara’s beautiful scenery is on a horseback tour. Most operators include a ride through the jungle, where you’re likely to see wildlife, as well as some time to trot on the palm-tree-lined beach. Prices for tours are around $60 per person.
Visit a Macaw Center
About 40 minutes south of Samara is a macaw parrot breeding center that is doing some amazing work. Scarlet and Great Green Macaw Parrots have become endangered in Costa Rica, and this group is working to increase the population through their breeding program.
This is not a wildlife rehabilitation center. Instead, they breed the parrots and then let them fly free. At the center, you will get to see hundreds of these charismatic birds coming back to the center to feed.
If you have your own car, you can reserve a tour directly through the Macaw Recovery Network’s website ($20 per person). If you don’t have one, tours with transportation are possible.
Check out our short video about Samara
Restaurants in Samara
Samara has an impressive selection of restaurants for such a small town. Here are some of the best places we’ve tried.
For a full list of the best eats, check out our Samara Restaurant Guide.
Las Olas Beach Bar
While in Samara, you have to take advantage of the beachside dining. Right on the main beach, this hidden gem is popular among tourists and locals alike. The super chill atmosphere is the perfect place place to kick back with a cold drink while taking in the view from under the palms.
Las Olas has a big menu with casual fare like quesadillas, tacos, fajitas, nachos, and burgers, and also some entrees like fish and pasta dishes. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Teca Beach
A great addition to Samara’s restaurant scene is Teca Beach. The French-inspired dinner spot offers upscale cuisine and unique ambiance. Costa Rican coffee bags adorn the ceiling, and soft lighting creates an intimate feel. Teca Beach has a tapas menu, fish and meat dishes, and delicious burgers.
Gusto Beach
Gusto Beach is another good spot for oceanfront dining. Tables are set up right on the sand and they even have some loungers and umbrellas on the beach. Gusto Beach has good cocktails and solid food, with many Italian offerings.
For those on a budget, note that this is one of the more expensive restaurants in Samara. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
El Lagarto
During a road trip through Guanacaste, we had one of our favorite meals at El Lagarto. The concept at El Lagarto is simple. They cook everything—meat, fish, and veggies—on a one-of-a-kind wood-fired grill. Everything gets that smoky char flavor, and the grill masters really know how to cook meat to perfection. Prices are a little high, but they use naturally raised meats and organic produce.
Boulangerie
For authentic French baguettes and decadent croissants, don’t miss the Boulangerie. This bakery is a little off the main drag but easily found by looking for the big “Boulangerie” sign on the front of the building. We wish we lived closer to Samara so that we could enjoy their breads and treats all the time.
Samara Organics
Samara Organics is a small organic food market right in the center of town. In addition to produce, they also have coffee, fresh juices, breads, locally made snacks, and natural products like insect repellent and essential oils.
If you’re interested in checking out the local farmers market, it’s now on Saturday morning. Here’s a map with the location.
Microbar
Microbar is definitely the coolest place in town. The tiny, dimly lit space and eclectic décor will make you feel like you’ve stepped off the beach and into a trendy speakeasy in the city.
Microbar has the largest selection of local craft beers on tap that we’ve ever seen in Costa Rica. We have tried a bunch of different sample sizes. Aletails (cocktails made with beer) are also available.
Opens at 5 p.m.
Hotels in Samara
Samara has a range of hotels for all budgets. You won’t find large chain hotels here, but rather quaint villas, lodges, and hostels. Many are located right in town, which is great if you’re traveling without a rental car. If you prefer something more secluded and quiet, there are also places outside the downtown.
Here are our picks for lodging in Samara.
Villas Kalimba
Villas Kalimba is right in town, but feels very private. The seven individual units are surrounded by lush flowering gardens and a tranquil pool. The property is directly across from the beach. Each villa is equipped with a kitchen for when you want to eat in. The hotel also has a delicious high-end restaurant. The staff at Villas Kalimba is very friendly and helpful. $150-250, double occupancy. Check Rates and Availability Here.
Residencias Samara
A newer hotel in town that we have enjoyed ourselves is Residencias Samara. This mid-range boutique hotel has a mix of studios and one and two bedroom apartments right in downtown Samara. The rooms are well equipped, with A/C, kitchenettes, and a TV. The property has a small pool for cooling off on hot days. This hotel is a good option for families. Note that some rooms are located on a busy street so there can be road noise. $80-300. Check Rates and Availability Here.
Samara Pacific Lodge
Samara Pacific Lodge is a comfortable budget option in a secluded location surrounded by pasture and forest. The hotel has four types of rooms, including some larger family rooms able to accommodate six people. The large saltwater pool and comfy lounge chairs are very inviting. It is best to have a rental car as it a few miles from the downtown. $90-130. Check Rates and Availability Here.
Hotel Belvedere
Hotel Belvedere is a favorite among visitors. Although the property is located just a short walk to town, it is more secluded and quiet. The small hotel offers spacious, comfortable rooms with balconies overlooking the jungle. Wildlife like monkeys, birds, and iguanas are often seen around the grounds. The hotel is divided into two separate buildings, each with its own pool area. Adults only. $60-135, double occupancy. Check Rates and Availability Here.
Montelaguna Boutique Hotel
We’ve stayed at Montelaguna Boutique Hotel and enjoyed it. This hotel is outside town, just a few minutes’ walk to the beautiful Playa Carrillo. Rooms are modern and range from affordable double and triple rooms to spacious suites that are great for families and groups. The pool is also really nice. It’s good to have a rental car if staying here. $130-230, includes breakfast. Check Rates and Availability Here.
Hostel Samara
This hostel is a great option for backpackers looking for an inexpensive place to stay close to town. Hostel Samara has three dorms and also a few private rooms with A/C if you’re looking for more comfort. A spacious common area has TV, some space for lounging and checking email, and a well-equipped kitchen. Shared dorm, $18-20 per person; Private room, $70, double occupancy. Check Rates and Availability Here.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a laid-back beach escape, you’ll love Samara. Although this modest town doesn’t span more than a few blocks, it offers everything you need for a fun and exciting vacation.
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Last Updated: November 28, 2024
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Looking for more info to plan your trip to Costa Rica? Check out these posts:
Llanos de Cortez Waterfall – Tips for visiting one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Guanacaste.
La Fortuna: What to Expect from Costa Rica’s Most Popular Destination – Samara is a great beach town, but for adventure activities like zip lining, hanging bridges, and whitewater rafting, you can’t beat La Fortuna/Arenal. Read our guide for visiting here.
Manuel Antonio Trip Planning: Trying to decide if Samara is right for you? Manuel Antonio is another family-friendly destination with a ton of wildlife. Learn more about this popular central Pacific coast town with this post.
