Sámara - Discovering Costa Rica

Travelling to Sámara

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Sámara, a pretty good destination in Costa Rica (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Sámara and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Sámara, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Costa Rica, here's everything to know about Sámara for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Sámara

Sámara is a coastal town located in the Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica. It's known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, and relaxed vibe. The town offers a variety of activities, such as horseback riding, kayaking, and hiking, and has plenty of restaurants and shops. It's a popular destination for surfers as well. Sámara is easily accessible by car or bus and offers a great opportunity to explore Costa Rica's Pacific coast.

What to visit in Sámara

Certainly, Sámara is an amazing place to visit in Costa Rica. Here are some of the best tourist attractions and their relevant information: 1. Sámara Beach: It's a beautiful white-sand beach with calm waters ideal for swimming or sunbathing. It also has various beachside restaurants and bars that offer a variety of food and drinks.
2. Carrillo Beach: Another stunning beach near Sámara that has turquoise waters, white sand, and is perfect for water sports like surfing, kayaking, and snorkeling. 3. Playa Buena Vista: A tranquil beach located just a few minutes from Sámara, with crystal-clear waters, swaying palm trees, and good views. 4. Isla Chora: A small island situated off the coast of Sámara that is a great spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. It's only accessible by boat, which can be hired from any of the local tour operators or divers. 5. Barra Honda National Park: A must-visit place for nature lovers, this park has a stunning limestone cavern system that requires a skilled guide to explore. It's also home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. 6. Werner Sauter Biological Reserve: A peaceful and serene location that provides an unspoiled natural habitat for various species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. There are hiking trails that offer some spectacular views of the surrounding forest.
7. Surfing lessons: Sámara is known for its mild waves, and several surfing schools offer lessons to beginners and intermediate-level surfers.
8. Horseback riding: Local tour operators also provide horseback riding tours that meander through picturesque beaches, jungles, and mountains, allowing you to experience the region's natural beauty firsthand.
Overall, Sámara is an amazing destination with a wide range of activities to suit all preferences, and it's definitely worth visiting to experience the Costa Rican way of life.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Costa Rica, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Sámara.

When to go on holiday to Sámara

The best time to visit Sámara, Costa Rica is during the dry season which runs from December to April. During this time, you can enjoy sunny and warm weather with less rainfall making it the perfect time to engage in all the beach activities like surfing, swimming, and snorkeling. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly trip, you can visit during the shoulder season which runs from May to August or November. During these months, you will still have good weather but with fewer crowds and better deals on accommodations and activities. Avoid the rainy season from September to October as this can cause flooding and muddy roads.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Sámara

To get to Sámara, Costa Rica, most travelers fly into the Liberia International Airport, which is the closest airport to Sámara. From there, you have a few options: 1. Private Shuttle: There are private shuttle services that operate from Liberia Airport to Sámara, which will provide you with a hassle-free and comfortable transfer. This is perhaps the most convenient and flexible option since you can arrange a pick-up time and date that suits you best.
2. Public Bus: You can also take a public bus from Liberia to Nicoya, and then take another bus from Nicoya to Sámara. This is the most cost-effective option but can be time-consuming.
3. Rent a Car: If you prefer to explore on your own, you can rent a car from Liberia airport and drive to Sámara. This option gives you greater flexibility and independence.
Once you arrive in Sámara, there's plenty to see and do. Sámara is a great destination for water sports enthusiasts, including surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking. It's also one of Costa Rica's blue-flag beaches, so visitors can be assured of its cleanliness and environmental efforts.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Sámara, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Sámara

Sure, here's a list of typical foods you may find in Sámara, Costa Rica, along with a brief description: 1. Gallo Pinto - A traditional dish made with rice and beans that is often served for breakfast. It is typically seasoned with onion, garlic, and cumin.
2. Ceviche - A popular dish made with raw fish that is "cooked" in citrus juices such as lime or lemon. It is typically served with peppers, onions, and cilantro.
3. Arroz con Pollo - A dish made with chicken, rice, and vegetables. It is often seasoned with cumin, saffron, and other spices to give it a flavorful taste.
4. Casado - A typical Costa Rican dish that consists of rice, beans, vegetables, salad, and a choice of meat such as chicken or beef.
5. Tamales - A popular Costa Rican dish made of masa (corn dough) stuffed with various fillings like chicken, pork, or vegetables wrapped in banana leaves.
6. Plantain chips - Thinly sliced and deep-fried plantain chips that are often served as a snack or appetizer.
7. Chifrijo - A dish made with fried pork pieces, beans, rice, and tortilla chips. It is often garnished with pico de gallo (a fresh tomato and onion salsa) and avocado.
8. Empanadas - Pastries filled with savory ingredients such as beef, chicken or cheese. They are usually deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Enjoy your trip and the delicious cuisine in Sámara, Costa Rica!
You can find general info about typical foods in Costa Rica here.

Is Sámara an expensive destination for tourists?

Sámara, Costa Rica is generally considered to be a mid-range to relatively expensive travel destination for tourists. Prices for accommodations, dining, and activities are higher than some other parts of Costa Rica. However, it is possible to find affordable options, particularly if you are a budget-conscious traveler. The cost of your trip will depend on factors such as your travel dates, your choice of accommodations, and the activities you plan to do. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices to make the most of your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Sámara

Sámara is a small beach town in Costa Rica, and most of the accommodation is concentrated near the beach. Some of the best areas to find accommodation in Sámara are the downtown area near the beach, the north end of the beach, and the southern end of the beach. These areas are close to restaurants, shops, and nightlife, and offer easy access to the beach. There are also several hotels, hostels, and rental homes located a bit further away from the beach in the surrounding hills, which offer stunning ocean views and a quieter atmosphere. Ultimately, the area you choose to stay depends on your preferences and budget.
You can check hotel prices at Sámara here:
Booking.com

Is Sámara a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Sámara in Costa Rica is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, visitors should exercise caution and be mindful of their surroundings, especially at night. It is recommended that tourists take common-sense precautions such as keeping valuables secure, avoiding - or at least being careful in - secluded areas, and using reputable transportation services. It is also important to follow the advice of local authorities and be aware of any potential risks or hazards, such as natural disasters or local crime trends.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Costa Rica here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Sámara.

What type of travelers will enjoy Sámara the most?

Sámara, Costa Rica is a destination that caters to a wide range of travelers, including couples, families, and young people. Couples will find Sámara's relaxed pace and stunning scenery ideal for a romantic getaway. They can enjoy beach walks, sunset dinners, and adventurous activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and horseback riding.
Families will appreciate the safe, family-friendly environment of Sámara, with plenty of activities for kids of all ages. They can enjoy water sports, beach volleyball, and outdoor games. Sámara is also a great place to introduce children to the abundant wildlife of Costa Rica with tours of nearby national parks.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy the vibrant nightlife and beach parties that take place in Sámara during the high season. They can also try out exciting activities such as surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and zip-lining.
Overall, Sámara is a destination that offers something for everyone, making it a perfect vacation spot for all types of travelers.

How to get around Sámara

Sámara is a small beach town in Costa Rica, so getting around is relatively easy. The most common modes of transportation are by foot or by bicycle. However, if you're looking to venture outside of the town, there are a few options to consider: 1. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Sámara and are a good option for short trips within the town or to nearby attractions.
2. ATV rentals: Many visitors to Sámara like to rent ATVs to explore the surrounding areas. There are several rental shops in town where you can choose from a range of ATVs.
3. Car rentals: If you want more freedom and the ability to travel further distances, renting a car may be a good option. There are several car rental companies in Sámara as well as in nearby cities like Nicoya.
Overall, the best mode of transportation will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

What to see around Sámara

Certainly! Here are some nice places to consider for a day trip from Sámara in Costa Rica: 1. Nosara: A beach town that's famous for its picturesque sunsets, Nosara is a great place to go to if you're looking for some secluded beaches and excellent surf spots.
2. Carrillo: With a long stretch of clean, white sand beaches, Carrillo is an ideal place to enjoy some fun under the sun. The clear blue waters are perfect for swimming or just lounging around by the shore.
3. Barra Honda National Park: If you're interested in exploring some underground caves and the natural wonders of Costa Rica, head to Barra Honda National Park. You can explore the caves, watch wildlife and hike through the lush forests.
4. Nicoya: Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, Nicoya offers a wide range of activities for visitors. You can enjoy a traditional Costa Rican meal, visit shops and museums or take a jungle tour.
5. Palo Verde National Park: A great place for bird watching, Palo Verde National Park is home to a large variety of bird species, including herons, egrets and ibises. You can also take a boat tour to explore the wetlands and observe crocodiles and monkeys.
I hope this helps!
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