Things to Do in Playa Samara

Things to Do in Playa Samara, Costa Rica - Playa Samara Attractions

Things to Do in Playa Samara

Check out must-see sights and activities:
Samara Beach, Samara-Carrillo Info Center, Nature and Wildlife Tours, Beaches.
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Book these experiences for a close-up look at Playa Samara.

Top Attractions in Playa Samara

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveler reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Laid-back beach destination with a variety of dining, shopping, and activities like surfing and horseback riding. Embraces a relaxed "Pura Vida" lifestyle amidst a scenic setting.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Multilingual information hub providing personalized travel planning assistance in the Guanacaste region, with a range of services from excursion bookings to rental car arrangements.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Kayaking, bird watching, and sunset cruises immerse visitors in the natural beauty of the locale, with opportunities to spot dolphins, whales, and colorful marine life during guided tours.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.



What travelers are saying

  • Eccles A
    Brighton, UK18 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I almost hesitate to post this review since it will draw more tourists to this remote area of Costa Rica, but you should definitely go there and sample all the pubs and restaurants—the locals are incredible.
    Written August 15, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • scotty1274
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Utilized Samara-Carrillo to facilitate all our transfers between the airport and properties we stayed at in Costa Rica. They were fantastic and super easy to work with. The drivers were professional and engaging, they made the trip fun. The rates were very competitive. Would highly recommend.
    Written August 26, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Laura H
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This tour was amazing! Our guide was fantastic and the horses were so gentle that my 5 year old rode on her own! I highly recommend doing this!
    Written July 3, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Michele L
    6 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Went solo, then with family, then with friends.

    No facilities, very raw and natural - extremely peaceful.

    Again, no amenities besides the beach itself. If you need restaurants or cold drinks or toilet facilities to feel comfortable, it’s not the spot for you. But it is gorgeous.
    Written March 27, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ivy K
    8 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I cannot recommend Maria highly enough! She provided true concierge level service for our vacation. We did a turtle nesting, zip lining, day trip to La Fortuna, and horseback riding and they were all perfect. Each experience was so fun and really exceeded my expectations. We had a private family experience with each one making it even better as we were not being herded in large tour groups and were able to go at our own pace and truly enjoy it all! Additionally, she arranged private transportation to and from the airport and met us at the AirBNB on arrival. She attended to every question and request quickly prior to the trip as well as during our vacation. Maria arranged private excursions and we received total white glove service. Her communication was always so efficient and she is truly a Costa Rica expert! Book with her and I promise you won’t be disappointed!!!
    Written August 11, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sue M-D
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Our guide was Alex and he was terrific! He led us on a beautiful walk through the Reserve, and pointed out many different plants and trees and told us about their history. The hike up was a bit strenuous, but we got to sit and rest at the top. The view up there was spectacular! We could see Playa Samara and Playa Carrillo. We didn't see many birds or animals during the hike, but as were taking pictures, a male Howler monkey came through the trees about 20 feet from our heads!
    As we loaded into our transport to head back to Samara, the skies opened up and it rained quite hard. That is very atypical for dry season, but we did get a bit wet. It was a warm tropical rain, so we didn't mind.
    Written February 12, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • May_EXL
    Winnipeg, Canada1,028 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    It was easy to find using GPS… 22 km from Samara off route 150. Keep an eye out for the dirt road turn off. There’s a fruit stand and grocery store at the corner. From the turn it’s a 2 km drive thru idyllic countryside to the entrance. 1,000 crc fee pp & free for under 7 yrs old. Quick hike to the waterfall…big rocks to hop around on. We went in Feb, water was clear & waterfall wasn’t overwhelmingly gushing but enough to enjoy and swim safely. People were diving/jumping off the cliffs. We went twice, early to beat the crowds, stayed for half a day and had a picnic. No restaurants or public facilities there. Please take your trash with you, there’s a big garbage can in the parking lot.
    Written April 2, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Meg260
    Beresford, SD10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Fishing with Kingfisher was AMAZING! Captain Rick and Orlando were excellent hosts. We caught mahi and sailfish and our 7 yr old even reeled in tuna and some smaller fish that he could manage. I HIGHLY recommend Kingfisher!
    Written February 26, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • May_EXL
    Winnipeg, Canada1,028 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Secluded, wide & long beach in the Samara area. We explored it during low tide. There’s a sign about dangerous rip currents. The current was gentle the day we went so we had a good time playing in the waves. From the parking lot you can walk along the edge at low tide and cross the river to get to the beach. Be careful crossing the river & watch out for the rocks…water shoes are ideal. Beware of crocodiles! The rock formations at the end are good for photo opportunities and if you’re up for a hike, it leads to Playa Izquierda. I suggest 3 things; low tide, good footwear & water.
    Playa Buena Vista is popular for the sunsets. If you decide to stay for post sunset keep in mind that there are mosquitoes. We went several times and saw a different sunset canvas each time. Don’t forget your camera! The river is seems to be a popular fishing spot for the locals? It’s everyone’s responsibility to treat this beach with respect and remember “no basura”!
    Written April 15, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Peter W
    4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Had a great morning. Easy kayak out to the reef where we snorkeled. Saw plenty of fish, an eel and an octopus. Ravi gave us a very good account of the ecology of the area - both the bay and the forest overlooking it.
    Written January 19, 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • amelierondeau22
    Playa Samara, Costa Rica3 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    The markets is good, fruits, veggies, bulk food, and other products. There is more choices of fruits and veggies on tuesday.
    Written April 1, 2018
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sarah M
    Oviedo, FL20 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Every time I come back to visit Playa Samara, I love to visit Koss Art Gallery. I have now collected 4 original paintings that adorn my walls back in Florida. It is located right on the beach with it's very own tropical oasis. A Must Sees!
    Written May 30, 2022
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above hotel descriptions. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in one of these AI-generated descriptions is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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