Costa Rica

Samara

Imagine a tropical beach with pristine white sands, brilliant blue waves, and an overall tranquil ambiance. This is Playa Samara. What began as a favorite getaway for Costa Rican vacationers has since developed into one of the safest and most highly desirable destinations in the country, visited by tourists from all over the globe.

Situated around a horseshoe-shaped cove, the small town can be walked from one end to the other in under 15 minutes. Most hotels, cafes, and shops are on the perimeter, with very little in the center. Incredible restaurants can be found on the road towards Nosara – Italians living here have brought their culinary talents to the table, treating guests to the most delectable pizza, pasta, and gnocchi outside of Italy. Five miles south of Samara sits the neighboring beach of Playa Carrillo, a normally deserted stretch of palm-fringed shore, with sands as white as sugar. 

Isla Chora, a tiny island a mile offshore, is a must see for adventurers eager to make the two-hour  kayak journey. Those who complete the often strenuous excursion are rewarded with a private pink sand beach, shallow caves, and some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Guanacaste. When the waters are calm, a variety of fish, rays, and sea turtles can be spotted among live coral reefs close to shore. The rest of the island is inaccessible, covered with cacti and entertaining lizards competing for picnickers’ discarded food.

Playa Samara is an ideal place for swimming, in part due to the large coral reef protecting its bay. The waves are a bit too tame for advanced surfers – but absolutely perfect for amateurs who want to get their feet wet. An impressive canopy tour, horseback riding, yoga, and private ultra light airplane flights are just a few of Samara’s other attractions.

Samara Snapshot

Summary: Pristine white sand beaches; quiet cove; exceptional ocean sports.
Landscape: Beaches
Attractions: Chora Island, La Selva Wildlife Refuge , Surf, Wildlife
Activities: Kayaking, Snorkeling, Swimming, Ultralight Airplane Flights
Caters to: Budget Travelers, Couples/Honeymooners, Families, Surfers

Samara Travel Guide