The journey takes you through the town, where you'll experience the local culture and lifestyle. The contrast is insane! Posted on October 17, 2022 by Tasha Amy Share Tweet Pin Today is a travel day. In Smara, people usually leave the beach and head into town for dinner and drinks as the sun sets. Werner Sauter Biological Reserve is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon. However, there is a small river crossing along the way. Allow around 45 minutes to reach the beach if you walk from Smara. The great thing about Costa Rica is you can see dolphins all up the Pacific coast! It is just a tiny little space but has big personality. So, grab your snorkel gear and join the many visitors who have already discovered the magic of Cao Island. @media(min-width:0px){#div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-medrectangle-4-0-asloaded{max-width:250px!important;max-height:250px!important}}if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'manymoremaps_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_1',117,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Unlike many other places in Costa Rica, this small town on the pacific coast is surprisingly authentic, and youll never have to deal with crowds of other tourists. This Smara travel guide is designed to tell you everything you need to know to plan your escape to this stunning area of Costa Rica. The item she loves the most? Kayaking through these mangrove tunnels is like entering another world entirely. It will surely be an experience you will enjoy and remember. Everybody managed to stand up on their first lesson, which is a huge achievement! Well youve come to the right place! This is the rental price for beginer boards; high-performance boards cost more. Kayaking all the way to Isla Chora in the ocean wont appeal to everyone. If taking the bus, tell the driver to stop atBar La Roca. On tap, youll find a huge selection of beers, and during my visit, there were over 24 on offer. A beer at 2 Gringos costs around 4,000 colones which is pretty expensive for Costa Rica. Check availability for your dates here. ATV tours are a thrilling way to explore the beautiful tropical forests of Costa Rica. It takes around 4 hours from the capital city of San Jose, or 2 hours from Tamarindo. Try the gallo pinto (rice and beans) or complete casado (set meals, such as rice, black beans and grilled chicken fillet). For more info, read our detailed guide about deciding where to stay in Samara with the best hotels and areas! I spent a few days in Smara at the end of my G Adventures Costa Rica tour, and I fell for it fast! Some of the animals you may encounter include monkeys, toucans, and lizards. The best part is that it only costs $45 USD per 4 weeks. You will see stunning vistas of greenery, cascading waterfalls, and stunning views of the Nicoya Peninsula. In fact, we found the beach only by chance after searching around on the app called Maps.me for a new place to explore. Im somewhat embarrassed to admit Id never even heard of Samara. It was beautiful and certainly one of the best things to do in Smara! Here are my top picks: Dont forget to check out my post on traditional food and drinks to try in Costa Rica! The animals at Osa Wildlife Sanctuary are accustomed to human interactions, but visitors should follow the sanctuary's guidelines for their safety and that of the animals. If you havent yet been able to spot an elusive macaw or want to learn a ton about these impressive birds, then a visit to Punta Islita Wild Macaw Reserve with Macaw Recovery Network is a must. Not to worry, SafetyWing is here to help! The guys over at C&C Surf School have unbeatable enthusiasm for teaching you how to surf and are full of helpful advice. If you are a digital nomad, you can sit here and work too on their outdoor patio. Once at the island, visitors can expect to see a wide variety of marine life, including colorful fish, rays, sea turtles, and even the occasional shark. These tours provide an opportunity to see some of the most stunning natural beauty of Samara, including the dense jungle, beautiful beaches, and cascading waterfalls. Instead, explore Nosaras small boutique shops and delicious cafes. I hope you have a great trip . Many people opt to visit the nearby coastal surf town of Tamarindo. Exploring Shawnee, PA: Top Activities and Attractions to Enjoy, Exploring the Charms of Catawba County, NC: A Guide to the Best Things to Do. On the left of the red gate, a small path travels along a barbed-wire fence. Turtles are one of the highlights of Costa Rican wildlife. This happens just about every night in Smara, and there are usually one or two bonfires to choose from. Nicoya Peninsula Samara Samara, Guanacaste - / 8 Sitting along the southern Pacific coast of the Nicoya Peninsula in the province of Guanacaste, Smara is small sunny town with pristine beaches and picture-perfect scenery. Brenda was excellent! Thank you for your feedback! The short 5-minute walk to the waterfall begins from Bar La Roca a closed-down restaurant on the main road between Smara and Nicoya. Here is where I spent my sunsets and nights enjoying my first drinks or a light meal. The Nauyaca Waterfalls are located near the town of Dominical on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. I spent a lot of time at two beach clubs in Smara. While there is something special about rainy season in Costa Rica, it also can be very frustrating with flooding and difficulty getting around. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 25 Best Things to do in Smara, Costa Rica, the best breweries I have visited in Costa Rica, where to stay in Samara with the best hotels and areas, 15 BEST Tours in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, 10 BEST Places to go Scuba Diving in Costa Rica, 10 BEST Tours and Places to go Kayaking in Costa Rica. Oct 5 travel Planning to travel to Costa Rica and spend some time in Samara? 3 Expat Stories from Samara, Costa Rica The Costa Rica Beach Town That Tropical Dreams Are Made Of By Jackie Minchillo Town is quiet in the morning; a few local vendors set up roadside shops where they sell wood carvings, tapestries, and the like. Taking in the gorgeous scenery at Barco Quebrado, Smara and Carrillo, youll be able to snorkel to your hearts content and get to know the area by its best and most beautiful asset the ocean! Overall, it was a fantastic way to spend a few hours and one of the best things to do in Smara! The quad biking tour includes a safety briefing followed by pure adventure! I love exploring the world on a backpacker budget and teaching others how they can do the same. Samara Costa Rica is located in the province of Guanacaste in the Nicoya region. There are many companies in Samara that offer canopy zip lining tours for visitors, so you'll have plenty of options to choose from. Surfing here was unbelievable. Samara, Costa Rica is a beautiful destination for eco-tourists and nature lovers. There are lots of shuttles that leave on the daily from Liberia Airport to the town of Samara. This is an adventure that is not to be missed, and in this article, we will explore everything you need to know about this incredible experience. Smara really is a top choice! So pack your bags, put on your sunscreen, and get ready to explore the 12 incredible activities that are waiting for you in this paradise called Samara, Costa Rica! Of course, you can always try to hitchhike too! There are lots of things to do in Samara, Costa Rica but you can also just sit at the beach and lounge the entire time. Samara's long, sandy beach is home to great snorkeling spots, a beautiful coastline adorned by Chora Island, and gentle and shallow waves suitable for swimming and learning how to surf. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! That means youll have time to either lounge on the beach in between surf sessions, or fit in an activity. Related Read: Be aware of safety tips with our guide to renting a car in Costa Rica. From Playa Samara to Playa Carrillo, each beach had its own unique charm and crystal clear waters. Their two-bedroom villas come with a full kitchen and everything you need for a great holiday. The waves at Playa Dominical are best during the high tide, but surfers can still ride the waves during the low tide as well. - Some of the top-rated restaurants in Samara include El Lagarto, Lo Que Hay, Gusto Beach, Flying Taco, and Equis. The beach is also a great place to learn how to surf, as there are many surf schools in the area offering lessons and equipment rentals. Last updated on March 24th, 2023 If you are looking for an under the radar town to spend your time in Costa Rica in, do yourself a favour and visit Samara, Costa Rica. Rainy season is from May-November. The mangrove kayaking tours take you far away from the beach to explore one of the most important ecosystems in Costa Rica. Half or full-day rentals normally include one tank of gas. 7 reviews Which of our ready-to-go tours in Costa Rica makes your heart beat faster? Playa Samara is sandwiched between the two so get in an ATV or car and do a little day trip to either! Werner Sauter is a lovely reserve and a great place to support in Costa Rica. If you're looking for a thrilling adventure amidst the stunning natural beauty of Samara, Costa Rica, then there's nothing like a canopy zip lining tour. The water temperatures around Cao Island are typically warm and comfortable year-round, making it an ideal destination for snorkelers of all levels. Visit Tortuga Island. Playa Samara Beaches Unfortunately, the tour is 18+ only, so youll have to leave the kids at home (bummer!). I would avoid it at that time. Check out availability and reviews here. We loved the decor inside and as the sun went down, the place really got busy. Snorkeling Wildlife and Mangrove Kayak Tour Samara In conclusion, hiking to the Nauyaca waterfalls is a must-do when you are in Samara, Costa Rica. Honestly, its spectacular and easily one of the best restaurants in Samara! @media(min-width:0px){#div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-narrow-sky-2-0-asloaded{max-width:300px!important;max-height:250px!important}}if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'manymoremaps_com-narrow-sky-2','ezslot_18',109,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-narrow-sky-2-0'); Smara is all about surf, and whether youve never set foot on a surfboard in your life or youre a seasoned pro, youll have the time of your life surfing here. We boarded our boat at 3 pm heading out into the bay. We both picked up a Marea branded tshirt and felt like we were cool Costa Rican Tico surfers haha. Families traveling to Costa Rica may want to add a trip to Smara with kids to their itinerary! If you already know what youre doing they have a wide range of surfboards to hire, although they dont have too many more advanced boards. This Smara travel guide is designed to tell you everything you need to know to plan your escape to this stunning area of Costa Rica. It is open bright and early at 7AM which was nice for us since the kids were up really early! In conclusion, horseback riding on the beach in Samara Costa Rica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you'll cherish forever. The white sand and calm water are just magical! Playa Barrigonais a remote beach around 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Smara. We are an active couple in our late 60s and early 70s who want to stay in an all inclusive but still take surfing lessons and do some excursions. Join the party & subscribe to my newsletter. Here, there are two gates at the end of this road that say private property. The other tour lasts for 2 hours and is more about viewing the birds and taking photos. These activities enhance the overall experience of the retreat by providing a well-rounded approach to wellness. Samara, Costa Rica is a beautiful destination for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, and one of the most popular activities to try is whitewater rafting in the Rio Pacuare. If Italian food isnt your thing (Are you Ok? If youre on a budget, there are lots of options, but not many of them are good. The beach is surrounded by lush green forests and mountains, making it a picturesque place to enjoy a relaxing day in nature. Samara Attractions Beaches (north to south): Playa Barrigona Famous for its gorgeous shoreline, Playa Barrigona is an indisputable beauty off the beaten track. Learn more 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) In addition to snorkeling, visitors to Cao Island can also participate in other eco-friendly activities like hiking through the lush rainforest and spotting a variety of tropical birds and wildlife. 45 Reviews Playa Samara, Costa Rica Share Save to Wishlist From $42.00 Lowest Price Guarantee Select Date and Travelers Check Availability Reserve Now & Pay Later Secure your spot while staying flexible Free cancellation Up to 24 hours in advance. As the sunset, we enjoyed some drinks and the magnificent views! Although Smara isnt the best place to see turtles in Costa Rica, if seeing turtles is a must for you, you can do tours from Smara. Additionally, visitors should wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are suitable for walking in the jungle. Samara Lodge is a 5 minute walk from the beach so its quieter than some places directly on the beach. The trail also visits a viewpoint with a short detour, but its really not that beautiful. They all said theyd had an amazing time and it sure looked like they did! Another cool place for handmade jewelry is located in the small food courtwhere youll find Rosa(a really good restaurant, by the way.) The pool is the real eye show stopper of the resort and although Samara beach is beautiful it is very hard not to set up shop there. The best place in town to rent a scooter from isEl Cactus Scooter Rental. Home Destinations Nicoya Peninsula Samara 25 Best Things to do in Smara, Costa Rica, Categories Destinations, Nicoya Peninsula, Samara. Need some persuasion? You canbook this place on HostelworldorBooking.com. The sanctuary offers a variety of tours, including day, overnight, and volunteer experiences. The warm waters of Samara offer excellent opportunities for underwater exploration and marine life viewing. I unfortunately didnt see Hotel Villas Playa Samara during my time in town, but given your interests I think youll have a fabulous time in Samara no matter where you stay! Prices are in USD! It is a famous surfing spot among both beginners and advanced surfers, thanks to its consistent waves and clear blue waters. The second place,Smara Pacific Lodge, is more of your typical resort-style hotel with a large pool, bar, and included breakfast. From the beautiful coastline to the stunning sunset view, the entire tour is full of excitement and relaxation. Kayaking tours from Smara are top-rated and involve a short 30-minute paddle out to Isla Chora before relaxing on the beach and snorkeling the reef. Just be sure to listen to your guide and follow safety guidelines for a safe and enjoyable trip. Things to do in Smara, Costa Rica 1. Youll get to take in the hills and jungle as you zoom through the rainforest. Fun fact:For those who dont know, an arribada is when hundreds of turtles come to shore to lay eggs. In conclusion, the Osa Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for those interested in wildlife and conservation. If you can, I highly recommend doing the sunset ride starting at 4 pm! Lots of people are and taking public transportation there is a great way to keep your Samara budget on track! Seriously, there is so much to choose it will take you a while to read about them all! (function($) {window.fnames = new Array(); window.ftypes = new Array();fnames[1]='FNAME';ftypes[1]='text';fnames[0]='EMAIL';ftypes[0]='email';}(jQuery));var $mcj = jQuery.noConflict(true); The Daydream Diaries is a destination for anyone who craves a stylish, adventurous and fulfilled life! You will not have a problem grabbing a bite to eat in Samara. During wet season, I would avoid the short cut from Nosara to Samara. Even if youre not into surfing, theres a whole load of reasons youll love Smara. Unfortunately, Bailey is allergic to horses, so we often shy away from horseback riding tours. Overall, if you are looking for a place to escape the demands of everyday life and reconnect with your inner self, Samara, Costa Rica is the perfect destination. Overall, a canopy zip lining tour is an exciting and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Samara. The Osa Wildlife Sanctuary can be accessed either by driving or taking a domestic flight to Puerto Jimenez, which is just a 20-minute drive away from the sanctuary. There is a long route from Nosara to Samara that is recommended if you do not have an SUV. Smara is one of those towns with a huge variety of places to stay. You will never get bored as there's a lot of activities to try and a bunch of places to discover. A typical Rio Pacuare rafting trip lasts around 6 hours, with a break for lunch on the river bank. The great thing about Smara is that the calm waters (usually) are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding or SUP! You can see a range of animals like birds, monkeys and other types of wildlife! This is located just off the main strip. La Roca Waterfall is only about 15-20 minutes away from Samara and is definitely worth checking out if you are in town for a few days. Activities in Samara While many people visiting Samara do little more than hang out at the beach, there are plenty of things to do. First of all, obviously, the lack of crowds is a big selling point. This tour is the better option but costs $50 USD per person. This amazing reserve is located only 10 minutes away from Playa Samara. The beach is not the greatest for swimming due to the large swell but, the sand is pearly white, and without anyone around, its spectacular! Drop your email and ill send this list straight to your inbox. Before you start your tour, you'll be given a safety briefing and taught how to use your equipment properly. The pastries are fancy and so are the lattes and it was a nice change of pace from some casual breakfasts we were having. They are attentive, efficient, and super friendly. Coffee! In fact, I often rent a scooter in Smara to get around and explore with ease. The tour lasts for 2.5 hours and finishes on Smara Beach. The Pacuare River is known for its lush rainforest surroundings, exciting rapids, and stunning scenery. For $35 USD, you can rent a scooter for 24 hours and head off and explore. The boat ride itself can be quite an adventure, with dolphins, sea turtles, and even humpback whales often spotted along the way. Hi, I'm Ella - a Londoner fitting a travel obsession around my 9-5. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); #mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; }
/* Add your own Mailchimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block.
We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. traditional food and drinks to try in Costa Rica! The trail offers a chance to see a variety of wildlife, and the stunning waterfall is a must-see attraction. They are often regarded as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, and they attract visitors from all over the world. These beautiful natural surroundings provide an ideal environment for relaxation and meditation, which is an essential component of these retreats. I spent a few days in Smara at the end of my G Adventures Costa Rica tour, and I fell for it fast! This hostel is well known amongst travellers to Smara for its social atmosphere, and it has a hammock area outdoors where you can chill in the evening and chat with other guests. Let's have a look at the fun things in Costa Rica. You can rent boards right from the beach, and they cost $10 USD or 6,000 Colones per hour. The highlight of the canopy zip lining tour is, of course, the zip lines themselves. Not only is travel insurance very affordable, but it can save you from all manner of nightmarish situations whether thats having your flights cancelled, accidentally damaging your laptop, or even getting injured on an activity! This is the beginning of the trail. Join a game of beach volleyball or start your own with friends and family. Playa Buena Vista They are comparable with the beaches on the pacific coast or dare I say Central America in general. Thousands of turtles visit the Pacific coast every month to lay eggs on the pristine beaches, and visitors can see both adults laying eggs and babies hatching. You might see monkeys, lizards, small mammals, and exotic birds, all of which can be difficult to spot when exploring on foot. You canfind its location here. From San Jose, the bus takes around 4 hours and costs around $8 one-way. Are you considering visiting the surf town of Smara in Costa Rica? This tour gets rave reviews! To help you plan your upcoming trip, here are the 25 best things to do in Smara, Costa Rica! Be sure to hire a long sleeve one if you can to protect yourself from the sun! Visiting the Nosara Wildlife Refuge also sounds like a must-do activity, especially getting up close with local wildlife. For example, visitors should not feed the animals, touch them without a guide's permission, or disrupt their habitat. There are various retreat centers and wellness resorts that offer a range of classes and programs to suit different needs and preferences. We drove too far, thinking the sign was for another waterfall (silly us) and it would be tough to turn around in a car on the narrow road. One of the most lively bars in Smara is LIMEYS Bar & Restaurant. One of the best-hidden gems I found in Smara was a small family-run restaurant up in the mountains around 45 minutes from town. Horses are specially trained to gently trot around the coast to ensure your safety, and you'll get to ride along the shoreline with the waves crashing next to you. @media(min-width:0px){#div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-large-leaderboard-2-0-asloaded{max-width:300px!important;max-height:250px!important}}if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'manymoremaps_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_13',120,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Aside from surfing and being a beach bum, there isnt much to do in Smara itself so its a good idea to get a balance of beach time and adventure activities. There are buses twice daily from the Liberia Airport and you can see that schedule here. Some tour companies offer multi-day rafting expeditions, which allow you to camp and explore more of the river over a longer period of time. The Samara Costa Rica Vibes. Smara is the perfect place to learn how to surf. Casa Esmeralda- The best place for fresh seafood! From Smara beach, a guided turtle tour will take you to either Corozalito, Camaronal or Ostional beach where you commence your turtle hunt. The roads on this route are pretty paved and well maintained. This means you get to expereince all that Smara has to offer and have chances to see monkeys, birds, butterflies, and crocodiles. They also hire out rash vests. From Smara,this dolphin-watching tourtakes you out on either a panga fishing boat or catamaran (depending on your budget.) If you are looking for hotels though, below are the best hotels in Samara based on each pricing level. You can also go further south down to Santa Teresa! One of the best ways to explore this amazing destination is by taking an ATV tour through the jungle. Don't miss out on this hidden gem! Her woven beach bag! Another unique aspect of the yoga and meditation retreats in Samara is the beautiful surroundings. Were both lovers of brunch! Isla Chora is a small island that is part of the reef that protects Smara from heavy ocean swells. TAKE SOME YOGA CLASSES @media(min-width:0px){#div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-banner-1-0-asloaded{max-width:580px!important;max-height:400px!important}}if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'manymoremaps_com-banner-1','ezslot_0',119,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-banner-1-0'); Heading to Costa Ricas Caribbean coast instead? Thats why we decided to do a sunset cruise in Smara one afternoon! Smara is a small town, so youre not going to be overwhelmed by choice of places to eat here. Whether you're fond of exploring tourist attractions or having a go at more thrilling activities, you won't have a dull moment here. Theyll let you know the best time that day to do a lesson. When you stand on a paddleboard and glide along the surface of the sea, you get an incredible view of the landscape, and it's an experience that you'll cherish forever. Seriously stunning shorelines. Thank you so much for sharing your experience in Samara, Costa Rica! The coral reefs surrounding the island are in excellent condition, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to explore. One of the best tours in Smara is theDiria Coffee tour. 2 Gringos Artisan Brewingis Smaras very own local brewery. The restaurant often has live music, and its so popular that you need to reserve a table during peak season. One of the best things about paddleboarding in Samara is that there are plenty of options available for every level of skill and experience. Among a wide variety of hotels, you will also find supermarkets, restaurants, bars, souvenir shops and a bank. You'll be a pro in no time! Whether you're a first-time paddler or a seasoned pro, stand-up paddleboarding on the Pacific Coast near Samara is an incredible experience that you won't forget. There are some beachfronts bars and souvenir stores around there. While there, we ordered a pizza cooked fresh in their woodfired oven. Things to do in Samara. The waves vary in size, from small swells for beginners to big barrels for advanced surfers. 10 Best Tamarindo Tours and Excursions You NEED to Check Out! I myself recently did a tour down in Puerto Jimenez and have a newfound appreciation for this often forgotten environment. Tours to Werner Sauter cost around $50 USD per person and are guided. Thank you for your feedback! - Yes, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting the Samara Art Gallery, attending the Samara Roots Festival, taking a traditional cooking class, or exploring some of the local markets and shops. With its pristine white sandy beaches and lush greenery, this sleepy town is the perfect getaway for those seeking a peaceful escape from their everyday lives. You should also bring water, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Plus, it's a relaxing way to unwind and leave your worries behind. This means even those not overly comfortable in the ocean can try surfing. LIMEYS Bar & Restaurant is open late on the weekends, and it can get pretty rowdy. Now on to the rest of the Samara Costa Rica travel guide. If you're planning a trip to Samara, Costa Rica, be sure to put the Samara sunset cruise on your must-do list. Many tour operators have different courses to cater to different levels of experience, so whether you're a first-timer or an experienced adventurer, you'll find a course that suits you. There are a few restaurants here, too, so you can indulge in popular Costa Rican dishes while watching the setting sun. Although zipline courses may be found nationwide, some being higher, faster, or longer than others, the Santa Elena canopy tours are unique.
Female Pastor Los Angeles, Articles T