Samara
Samara is perfect for a beach vacation to soak up sun and beach life in an unpretentious, laid-back atmosphere. The small village is located in a large half moon bay with pale sand beach which is shaded by many palms and old fig trees.
The shallow waters of the Samara bay are protected by a coral reef and the easygoing surf makes swimming enjoyable. Low tide produces a vast swathe of sand, providing plenty of playground for kids and grown-ups.
Samara is a traditional weekend and vacation retreat for Costa Ricans and still feels fairly authentic with many businesses and hotels run by local Ticos. It’s a perfect family destination and seems especially popular with travelers from Europe.
Samara’s main drag leads directly down to the beach where seaside restaurants and bars feature sand floors, beach arts, and mellow tunes.
As Samara is an established vacation spot, there are several good dining options and lounge bars for night entertainment. And the lively discotheque of Samara is located right on the beach!
Hotels in Samara run the gamut from simple and cheap cabinas, to cozy Bed and Breakfast, boutique hotels and condominiums for rent.
Activities in Samara
A 2 km walk south along the beach brings you to the fishing community of Matapalo. The beach is littered with broken corals which inhabit the reef and sea bottom of the southern part of the bay. The shallow waters here are great for snorkeling.
Diving and snorkeling is also excellent at the far northern end of Samara where the reef closes up to the beach. The reef is one of the few ones found on the Costa Rican Pacific side and in dry season you enjoy crystal clear waters. You will see schools of yellow jacks, pork fish, manta rays, and star fish, among many others.
Next to the reef is Chora Island which is home to colonies of maritime birds. With an ocean kayak you can paddle to the island and enjoy escapism on a gorgeous pink sand beach.
The chest-deep water and easy surf in the bay is perfect for beginners learning to surf. More challenging waves for the pros are found 12 km south of Samara, on Playa Camaronal.
Other water sports offered in Samara include windsurfing, sport fishing, or kayaking along the coast or into the river estuary of the Rio Ora.
For activities on land you can ride on horseback to the Tobacco waterfalls with its three cataracts and natural swimming pools. Or go on a Canopy Tour in Santo Domingo, three km inland from Samara.
