Sámara Beach, Costa Rica: Ultimate Travel Guide to Things to Do, Eat & Stay
When we first discovered Sámara Beach on Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula in February 2011, we stumbled upon this hidden gem and initially wanted to keep it our secret. We worried that overtourism might transform it into another Tamarindo or Coco, overrun with high-rises. Fortunately, on our return visit, we confirmed strict building regulations protect its pristine, long stretch of beach from massive resorts. With direct flights from major North American airlines to Liberia (just two hours north), reaching Sámara is effortless—I departed NYC at 6 a.m., flew from JFK to Liberia, and relaxed on the beach by early afternoon. As seasoned travelers, here's our curated Sámara Beach travel guide, highlighting top activities, dining, and accommodations.
Sámara Beach Travel Guide
Sámara sits in a wide, scenic bay protected by a coral reef, shielding it from the powerful waves of nearby Santa Teresa or Nosara. This makes it ideal for safe ocean enjoyment while still welcoming beginner surfers. Despite numerous beachfront hotels and guesthouses, coconut palms cleverly conceal them, preserving the illusion of an untouched paradise.
Expect a variety of restaurants, bars, and adventures like snorkeling, fishing charters, horseback riding, and ATV tours. The compact town, home to about 400 residents, spans just three blocks wide by two deep—stroll the entire beach in an hour. Most lodging is a short walk from the central hub of shops, supermarkets, banks, galleries, and eateries.
Peak season runs December to June, with rainy season (July-November) often featuring pleasant mornings and brief afternoon showers.
We've handpicked standout options for stays, dining, and activities, though Sámara offers plenty more to uncover.
Top Things to Do in Sámara Beach
Horseback Riding on the Beach
One of Sámara's highlights, book via Airbnb Experiences or directly on the beach with waiting guides.
Beach Relaxation
Unwind on the fine white sands: hammock swings, sunbathing, and refreshing ocean dips—pure bliss without guilt.
Snorkeling & Kayak Trips
Paddle to Isla Chora, a deserted isle for snorkeling in crystal waters. Tours last ~3 hours at $40/person.
Surf, SUP, or Scuba Lessons
Surf schools like Choco's or C&C offer lessons with free board rentals. Shallow waters suit stand-up paddleboarding; reefs beckon divers.
Visit Carrillo Beach
Just 6km south, this serene paradise features few hotels and endless solitude.
Learn Spanish
Intercultura Sámara Language School provides interactive ocean-view classes, cultural activities, dance, tours, and optional homestays.
More Adventures
Turtle watching in Ostional, fishing, ATVs, ziplining, yoga, gyrocopter flights, or rafting await.
Where to Eat in Sámara
Ahora Si
Italian expat Sabina's vegetarian haven blends Italian and Asian flavors with organic, local produce: rice dishes, soy burgers, fresh shakes.
Lo que Hay
Beachfront taqueria/bar famed for Taco Tuesday ($3 for two tacos + beer). Tacos, stuffed avocados, pizza, cocktails.
Kaibella
Canadian Belle's Thai-Caribbean fusion uses local ingredients in veggie, chicken, beef, or seafood dishes since 2010.
Casa Esmeralda
Upscale Tico spot for casados, steaks, seafood—authentic Costa Rican fare.
Gusto
Creative Italian with seafood/pasta focus; town location edges out the beach one.
Where to Drink in Sámara
Beach and main road bars draw surfers post-sunset: Lo Que Hay, Bar Arriba, Bar Olas, Bar Tabanuco.
Where to Stay in Sámara
The Treehouse Hotel
Beachfront luxury treehouses in a tropical garden with pool. Prices: $135 high/$120 low/$165 peak.
Hotel Fenix
Apartment-style with kitchens, pool, beach hammocks. Prices: $110 high/$85 low; deluxe $135/$110; weekly/monthly available.
Laz Divaz
Lesbian-owned B&B with themed cabins ('Marlene Dietrich,' 'Farinelli,' 'Tina Turner'); breakfast included. 
Prices: $110 high/$100 low/$120 holidays.
Casa Valeria
Beach bungalows with communal kitchen, free coffee. Prices: $50 high bungalow/$35 room.
Hostel Las Mariposas
Town-center hostel with dorms/privates, kitchen, $4 breakfasts, free coffee. Prices: $15 dorm/$35 double shared bath/$38 private bath.
Airbnb in Sámara
300+ options from rooms to villas. Explore top-rated Airbnbs here.
How to Get to Sámara Beach
San José bus: 4.5 hrs, 4000 Colones (~$8). Interbus shuttle: $45. Fly to Liberia (2 hrs away): taxis $70, rentals $25-50/day. TACA offers affordable U.S./Canada flights.
