This scenic, laid-back beach town is set in a crescent shaped bay and is popular with both tourists, ex-pats, and Ticos. Turquoise waters break against the shores of the white sand beach that is well known as one of the safest and accessible in the area.
The surrounding coral reef is good for snorkeling and keeps the seas calm for swimming. The town itself has all the basic amenities; restaurants and bars, banks, supermarkets, as well as car rentals and tour operators.
Nearby Beaches:
Playa Carrillo: Lies to the south about 5 miles. This breathtaking beach is lined with coconut palms and is well protected by headlands that keep the ocean calm for swimmers and snorkelers. The beach itself is undeveloped. There are no restaurants or buildings to spoil your pristine view of paradise.
Playa Buenavista: This tranquil and unspoiled beach lies to the north. Drive to the town of Cangrejal and 1 ¼ hour drive through the forest.
Activities:
Surfing: Samara Beach is a great spot for beginners who can rent a board and lesson from locals on the beach. More experienced surfers go to Playa Camaronal 7 miles to the south.
Snorkeling:Spot lots of colorful fish at the coral reef in Cangrejal Bay (best in the dry season).
Kayak to Chorla Island south of Samara to see the abundant species of birds that live in this maritime reserve or into the mangroves of nearby river estuaries.
Horseback riding along the beach or to Tobacco Waterfalls.
Sport Fishing: Tours leave from nearby port of Carrillo south of Samara. Common fish to catch are Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Tuna and Marlin. You might even see dolphins or sea turtles along the way.
Car: While the road from the airport to Samara is paved and in generally good repair. We recommend a mid-sized to premium 4x4 SUV to explore the quieter beaches nearby. Be aware that during green season a larger/stronger vehicle is a better choice. Signage in this part of the country is rare and so a GPS system is very useful to easily find your way around.
How to get there:
From San Jose driving on the Interamericana: Follow the Interamericana Highway North (#1) until the turnoff for the Tempisque Bridge - Puente de la Amistad. Cross the Gulf of Nicoya, and drive directly to Nicoya and then turn south to Samara. Travel time: 4 ½ hours.
From San Jose driving on the San Jose Caldera Highway: Follow the San Jose-Caldera Highway (#27). When you reach Caldera follow the signs to Puntarenas, Liberia and the Interamericana Highway (#1) until the turnoff for the Tempisque Bridge - Puente de la Amistad. Cross the Gulf of Nicoya, and drive directly to Nicoya and then turn south to Samara. Travel time: 4 ½ hours. Distance: 150 miles
From Liberia: From Liberia, drive directly to Nicoya and from there turn south to Samara. Travel time: 2 hours Distance: 70 miles