Playa Samara

Playa Samara Travel Guide

Playa Samara, located on the Nicoya Peninsula on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, is a charming beach town known for its relaxed vibe, stunning beaches, and friendly community. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the best activities, attractions, restaurants, and practical tips to make your visit to Samara unforgettable.

Overview of Playa Samara

Samara is a small, laid-back town that attracts families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a peaceful beach getaway. The area is known for its beautiful beach, calm waters, and abundance of activities both on land and at sea. Samara’s welcoming atmosphere and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation and adventure.

Activities to Do in Playa Samara

Swimming

Samara Beach (Playa Samara) is known for its calm, warm waters, making it ideal for swimming. The gentle waves are perfect for families and those looking to enjoy a safe and relaxing beach experience.

Surfing

While Samara is great for beginner surfers due to its gentle waves, nearby beaches like Playa Carrillo and Playa Camaronal offer more challenging surf conditions. Surf schools and board rentals are available in town.

Snorkeling and Diving

The clear waters around Samara are perfect for snorkeling and diving. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life just off the coast. Guided tours and equipment rentals are available.

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters of Samara Bay. Paddle out to Isla Chora, a small island off the coast, where you can snorkel and relax on the beach.

Horseback Riding

Experience the natural beauty of Samara on horseback. Guided tours take you through scenic trails, along the beach, and into the surrounding countryside.

Wildlife Watching

Samara is home to diverse wildlife, including monkeys, iguanas, and a variety of bird species. Join a guided tour to explore the local flora and fauna, or visit nearby wildlife reserves.

Yoga and Wellness

Samara offers several yoga studios and wellness retreats. Take a yoga class on the beach, indulge in a massage, or join a wellness program to rejuvenate your body and mind.

Fishing

Join a local fishing tour to experience the thrill of catching fish like marlin, sailfish, and tuna. Both inshore and offshore fishing trips are available.

Attractions Close to Playa Samara

Playa Carrillo: Located just south of Samara, Playa Carrillo is a pristine beach with palm-lined shores and calm waters. It’s perfect for a day trip to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Belen Waterfall: A short drive from Samara, Belen Waterfall is a beautiful spot for a refreshing swim in a natural pool. The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy and offers scenic views.
Ostional Wildlife Refuge: A bit further away, Ostional Wildlife Refuge is famous for the mass nesting of olive ridley sea turtles. Visit during the nesting season to witness this incredible natural event.
Nosara: About an hour north of Samara, Nosara is known for its surf, yoga retreats, and wildlife. It’s a great place to explore additional beaches, nature reserves, and vibrant community activities.
Barra Honda National Park: Approximately two hours from Samara, Barra Honda National Park features an extensive cave system and hiking trails. Guided tours are available to explore the impressive limestone caves.

Best Restaurants in Playa Samara

El Lagarto: Known for its delicious barbecue and seafood dishes, El Lagarto offers a unique dining experience with open-fire cooking. The beachfront location and beautiful sunset views add to the ambiance.
Gusto Beach: A popular beachfront restaurant, Gusto Beach serves a variety of international and Italian dishes. Enjoy fresh pasta, seafood, and cocktails with a view of the ocean.
Roots Bakery & Café: A great spot for breakfast or a coffee break, Roots Bakery & Café offers fresh pastries, sandwiches, and excellent coffee. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a local favorite.
Samara Pacific Lodge Restaurant: Located at the Samara Pacific Lodge, this restaurant offers a mix of local and international dishes. Enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, and homemade desserts in a cozy setting.
Mama Gui: A family-friendly restaurant with a laid-back vibe, Mama Gui serves a variety of pizzas, pasta, and other Italian dishes. The outdoor seating area is perfect for a relaxed meal.

Pro Tips for Visiting Playa Samara

Weather: The average annual temperature in this region is 82 degrees Fahrenheit. April is the hottest month, with temperatures reaching up to 100 degrees. For the rest of the year, daytime temperatures average around 91 degrees. The coolest nights occur between November and March, with temperatures averaging 66 degrees.

The dry season, from November to April, brings almost no rain, with daytime temperatures ranging between 89 and 96 degrees and an average of ten hours of sunshine daily. During this season and a brief dry spell in July and August, northeast winds prevail, reaching up to 7.5 miles per hour.

The wet season runs from May to October, with June, September, and October being the rainiest months. July is typically the least rainy of the wet months. Relative humidity peaks at 80 to 85 percent during the wet season, compared to 60 to 65 percent in the dry season. Rain generally falls in the afternoons and evenings, but there are still about six hours of sunshine per day during this period. Winds tend to be calm during the wet season.
Transportation: Samara is accessible by car, shuttle, or plane from San José or Liberia. Renting a car or ATV is recommended for exploring the area, but local taxis and shuttle services are also available.

Samara offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you’re swimming in the calm waters, exploring the underwater world, or enjoying a meal with a view, Samara promises an unforgettable Costa Rican experience.