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An update from Evaneos
Playa Samara

Playa Samara (Costa Rica)

Practical information about Playa Samara

  • Beach / Seaside Resort
  • Water Sports
  • Horse
4 / 5 - 2 reviews
How to get there
5 hours by bus from San Jose
When to go
All year round
Minimum stay
1 to 2 days

Reviews of Playa Samara

Travel writer
181 travel articles

The beach on the Nicoya Peninsula is protected by a coral reef, which makes it an ideal spot for budding surfers and/or for paddling and splashing around in the water.  

My suggestion:
Opt for a hotel far from the city center to make the most of the relaxing effect of this beach side stopover. 
Summary:

Samara Beach is one of the peninsula's most popular tourist destinations. This is certainly due to the fact that it is reputed to be one of the safest beaches in the country and, therefore, is a destination of choicefor family holidays.

It is true that it's quite attractive, but in my case I didn't fall in love with the place. The tiny town of Samara, though pretty, lacks traditional authenticity, even if it is impossible to forget you're in Costa Rica there, with its stunning natural scenery, and the animals all around. The country is a veritable open-air zoo, and you can understand why it is strictly prohibited to exploit these resources.

There are many beaches to visit in the area, such as Buenavista and the absolutely superb Carrillo. These last two are at least as beautiful as the beach at Samara, and noticeably less busy, which is an important detail. You can reach them on horseback from Samara, and everyone will agree in saying IT’S AMAZING (note: this is an essential phrase or password to use to fit in here, and should be said often … or not at all).

This is also a good place to stay if you want to see the turtles laying their eggs at Ostional. I was unfortunately not able to experience this spectacle, being there at the wrong time of year.   

Samara Beach
Laure Alvarez Travel writer
44 travel articles

The magnificent Samara Beach is located on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, on the Nicoya Peninsula, and truly is a haven of peace and tranquility.

My suggestion:
Be careful of the sun! I recommend going to Samara Beach early in the morning or late in the afternoon as the sun very often shines there and the heat can be unmerciful!
Summary:

I spent a few days in the very friendly and hospitable little town of Sámara, where there is a wonderful white sandy beach. It's the perfect place to take things easy and relax, especially with the beach reputed to be one of the safest and most tranquil on the peninsula.

Diving enthusiasts will greatly enjoy the magnificent coral reef off Samara Beach and the abundance of marine life there. The presence of the reef indicates that the ocean is particularly calm at Samara Beach, contributing even more to its peace and tranquility. This means it is both very pleasant for people who don't enjoy large waves and an ideal place for novice surfers!

Lots of expats have set up their businesses here, though in contrast to many of Costa Rica's tourist sites, Samar still has a friendly and traditionally authentic side to it.

Samara Beach
Samara Beach