Best cafés and restaurants in Samara: where to eat?
Samara is a hidden gem on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed vibe. But the amazing food scene makes...
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Samara
If you are looking for a discreet town to spend a few days in Costa Rica, don't hesitate to stop in the small town of Samara. This discreet little town retains an authentic Costa Rican culture and is only 30 minutes from Nosara, in the province of Guanacaste. A fascinating blend of natural wonders, aquatic adventures and vibrant culture, Sámara offers an unforgettable Costa Rican experience with its simple “pura vida” ambiance. How to get there, what to do, where to eat... here's everything you need to know!
Samara is the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy the beach in a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere.
With its pleasant “Tico” atmosphere, Samara is also a popular vacation spot for Costa Rican tourists. Unlike northern Guanacaste, where towns have been hit by development and commercialization, Samara still retains its rustic seaside town charm, despite its popularity with North American and European expatriates (and honestly, we understand them!).
As the day draws to a close, don't miss the opportunity to witness Samara's breathtaking sunsets, adding a perfect finale to your stay.
Sámara
Beaches, natural pools, surfing: what to do in Samara?
#1
Relax on Samara Beach or surf your first waves.
The small village of Samara is nestled in a large crescent-shaped bay, with a wide sandy beach lined with palm trees that stretches for more than 7 km. Samara Bay is protected by an offshore coral reef, creating calm waters ideal for gentle swimming and beginner surfers.
Indeed, Samara is the ideal beach to try surfing for the first time, but not really if you want to learn to surf. All the waves form a long line and then collapse into the white water, making the waves ideal for learning to stand on the board.
But if you already know how to stand on a board and you want to learn how to ride a wave by turning in the wave and riding it, this is often not possible. By the time you stand up, the wave has crashed straight down and is not breaking to the right or left.
Instead, take the opportunity to relax on your towel or take a leisurely stroll along the beach, embracing the essence of the present moment—a valuable lesson imparted by the tranquil ambiance of Samara.
#2
Visit Playa Carrillo, the “Mirador del Sur”, and watch the sunset.
If you venture outside the city, you will discover beautiful, uncrowded beaches. In the opposite direction, 8 km south of Samara, is Playa Carrillo, a picturesque palm-fringed beach set in a quiet horseshoe-shaped bay. Just after this beach, take the time to stop at an exceptional viewpoint. Meet at “Mirador el Sur” located 15 minutes by car from Samara city center.
We didn't have a car, so we went there by taxi, we met Taxi Lito, a real Tico who was adorable, with whom we discussed many topics about Costa Rica. Do not hesitate to contact him if you wish to travel around Samara (contact him via WhatsApp at +506 6336 8176). The trip cost us a total of 16,000 colones round trip from our Las Mariposas hostel (or around 7$ per person if you are 4). And believe me, it’s worth it!
The place is just sublime, you will access it via a small private path, and barely 3 minutes later you arrive at a breathtaking view over the entire bay. We advise you to go there around 4:30 p.m. to take the opportunity to admire the sunset. A few meters further down, you can access superb natural swimming pools (remember to watch the tides, the place is only accessible at low tide).
Bests hotels in Samara : where to stay?
Finding the perfect place to stay is key to making the most of your visit to Sámara. From luxurious beachfront resorts with stunning ocean views to cozy boutique hotels surrounded by lush greenery and budget-friendly hostels perfect for backpackers, you'll find excellent options for a memorable and relaxing stay in this charming coastal town. Check out our blog post > Best Hotels in Sámara - Where to Stay? to explore a range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.
Best restaurants in Samara : where to eat?
Sámara is a picturesque beach town known for its relaxed atmosphere and vibrant dining scene. Whether you're craving fresh seafood by the shore, authentic Costa Rican cuisine, or international dishes with a creative twist, Sámara has something to tantalize every palate.
From elegant beachfront restaurants to casual cafes and affordable local sodas, this charming town offers a variety of culinary experiences to suit every traveler’s style and budget. Check out our blog post > Best Restaurants in Sámara - Where to Eat? for our top recommendations!
How to get to Playa Samara?
The small city is easily accessible by an asphalt road from Nicoya. A daily bus connects it to San José and other major cities in Costa Rica. The city center is very compact, it is not necessary to have a car to visit it. Hotels, supermarkets, shops, and the beach are all within easy walking distance.
To get to Sámara, Costa Rica, you have a few options depending on where you're coming from and your preferred mode of transportation.
How to get to Samara from the South of Costa Rica?
If you're traveling to Sámara from the southern regions of Costa Rica, such as San José or areas closer to the Pacific coast, you have a couple of options:
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By car :
If you have access to a vehicle or rent a car, driving is often the most convenient way to reach Sámara from the south. You can take Route 27 from San José to Puntarenas, then catch the ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera. From Paquera, drive to Nicoya and then to Sámara. Alternatively, you can drive along the coastal Route 34 (Costanera Sur) from the south until you reach the intersection with Route 150, which leads to Nicoya and eventually to Sámara.
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By bus public transport :
If you're on a budget, you can take a public bus from Liberia to Nicoya and then transfer to another bus to Sámara. The journey may take longer compared to a shuttle or private transfer, but it's a more economical option. There is a unique bus from San José to Samara every day at 11:59 a.m. The journey takes approximately 5-7 hours, passing through Liberia with the transport company Transport Inteligente Guanacaste. For going back to San José from Samara there is a direct bus at 4 a.m every morning.
How to get to Samara from the North of Costa Rica?
If you're traveling to Sámara from the northern regions of Costa Rica, such as Liberia or the Nicoya Peninsula, you have several transportation options:
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By car :
If you rent a car, driving is often the most convenient way to reach Sámara from the north. From Liberia, you can take Route 21 south towards Nicoya. In Nicoya, you'll then take Route 150 to Sámara. If you're already on the Nicoya Peninsula, you can simply take Route 150 directly to Sámara.
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By bus public transport :
Public buses operate between Liberia and Nicoya, as well as between other towns on the Nicoya Peninsula and Nicoya itself. Once in Nicoya, you can catch another bus to Sámara. While this option may take longer and involve transfers, it's a more budget-friendly choice.
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By plane :
If you're coming from other parts of Costa Rica or nearby countries, you may consider flying into Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle/taxi to Sámara, which is about a 2-3 hour drive away.
Get to Samara by group or private shuttle?
You can also book a private or shared shuttle to go to Samara. We hilghy recommend you opt with the shared shuttle service if your budget allows. Many shuttle services operate between Liberia Airport and Sámara, offering convenient and comfortable transportation. You can book these in advance through our private transfer service.
Our private transfer service can be customized to fit whatever your travel needs may be and also allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery. All our vehicles are driven by reliable and punctual professionals, who are there to help you move safely around the country. Indeed, many travelers make the mistake of underestimating driving distances, driving conditions, and the amount of patience required to navigate between destinations. Our private or shared shuttle service removes the hassle and stress, while still being flexible with your travel schedule.
Writer's Tips: If you want to rent a car, use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
How to get around in Samara ?
Getting around in Sámara, Costa Rica is easy due to its compact size, layout and relaxed vibe. Here are some options to help you navigate the area smoothly:
Walking
Sámara is a small, pedestrian-friendly beach town, so walking is one of the best ways to get around. The beach, restaurants, shops, and most accommodations are centrally located, making it easy to explore on foot. Walking lets you soak in Sámara’s laid-back vibe and scenic surroundings.
Biking
Many hotels and rental shops in Sámara offer bicycles for daily or weekly rent. Biking is a great way to explore Sámara and nearby beaches. Bikes are a budget-friendly option and allow you to reach nearby attractions like Carrillo Beach or other areas around town.
ATV Rentals
Popular for off-road adventures: Renting an ATV is popular for exploring less accessible areas and for those who want to take a little adventure off the beaten path. ATVs allow you to access nearby beaches and remote spots that regular vehicles may not reach. Expect to find several rental shops around town.
Car rentals
If you’re planning to explore areas outside Sámara, like Nosara, Punta Islita, or Playa Carrillo, renting a car offers more flexibility and comfort. Some roads around Sámara can be rough, especially in the rainy season, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended if you’re venturing farther out.
Writer's Tips: If you want to rent a car, use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Local taxis
Taxis are available in Sámara, though they might not be as plentiful as in larger cities. You can usually arrange for one through your hotel or by asking a local.
Bus services
Public buses connect Sámara with other cities and towns. The bus to Nicoya, for instance, is frequent and affordable, from where you can connect to other routes. While inexpensive, bus services can be limited, so check the schedule in advance if you plan to rely on this option.
Where to go after Samara?
Nosara (30–40 minutes)
Why Visit: Nosara is a haven for surfers, yogis, and nature lovers. Its main beach, Playa Guiones, is renowned for consistent waves and soft sand, making it ideal for beginners and experienced surfers. Nosara is also famous for its wellness scene, offering yoga studios, healthy eateries, and a tranquil atmosphere. For nature enthusiasts, the Nosara Biological Reserve and abundant wildlife, including howler monkeys, are highlighted.
How to Get There? Drive or take a shuttle along the scenic coastal road; roads can be bumpy, so a 4x4 is recommended.
Monteverde (4–5 hours)
Why Visit: Monteverde offers a completely different experience with its cool, misty cloud forests. Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve to walk along suspension bridges, spot exotic birds like the resplendent quetzal, or zipline through the treetops. The town also has charming cafes, butterfly gardens, and cultural attractions like the Monteverde Cheese Factory. It's a must for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
How to Get There? Drive inland via Nicoya and Route 1 or take a shuttle. Roads to Monteverde can be steep and gravelly, so a 4x4 vehicle is ideal.
Where to stay, where to eat, what to do in Samara? Discover our travel blog
Discover our special recommendations about the best places to stay, the best restaurants to eat and all useful information that will allow you to enjoy the reel beauty of Samara. Whether you are looking for a relaxing moment or a sports adventure, Samara offers many amazing experiences. Discover our blog and unveil the hidden gems awaiting your exploration in our Costa Rican paradise.
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