Your guide to discovering the best of Sámara and its surroundings.
Explore Sámara & the Nicoya Peninsula
Discover beautiful beaches, tropical landscapes, local restaurants and authentic Costa Rican experiences on the Pacific coast of Guanacaste.
Discover the Beaches of Sámara & Guanacaste
One of the best reasons to visit Sámara is the variety of beautiful beaches located along this part of the Pacific coast.
From lively bays and palm-lined beaches to secluded stretches of coastline, there is something for every type of traveller.
Sámara · Carrillo · Buena Vista · Barrigona · Barco Quebrado
Playa Sámara
A beautiful bay with generally calm waters, palm trees, beachfront restaurants and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and enjoying spectacular sunsets.
Playa Carrillo
One of the most beautiful beaches in Guanacaste, famous for its turquoise waters, white sand and palm trees lining the coastline. A peaceful place to swim, relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Costa Rica.
Playa Buena Vista
A quieter and more natural beach, appreciated for its open coastline, scenic surroundings and relaxed atmosphere. Ideal for visitors looking for a less developed beach environment.
Playa Barrigona
A beautiful secluded beach surrounded by tropical vegetation, known for its striking white sand and spectacular coastal scenery. A wonderful destination for those looking to explore beyond the main tourist beaches.
Playa Barco Quebrado
A scenic and less-developed stretch of coastline, offering impressive natural landscapes and a different perspective of the Pacific coast.
Explore the Nicoya Peninsula
From Sámara, the Nicoya Peninsula reveals surf towns, green hills and protected wild beaches. Here are five destinations to discover during your stay.
Nosara
Surf, yoga and unspoiled beaches north of Sámara.
Islita
A peaceful bay and a village known for its public art.
Hojancha
Cool hills, rural life and views across the peninsula.
Camaronal
A wildlife refuge and nesting beach for sea turtles.
Ostional
A national refuge famous for olive ridley turtle arribadas.
ATV ADVENTURES
Trails · Hills · Pacific viewpoints
Discover the countryside, mountain trails and scenic viewpoints around Sámara.
SPORT FISHING
Half-day or full-day experiences
Enjoy a fishing excursion with local operators and experience the Pacific coast from the water.
Things to Do in Sámara & Guanacaste
From exploring the Pacific Ocean to discovering the tropical countryside, there are plenty of ways to enjoy your stay in Sámara.
ACTIVITIES WE CAN HELP YOU ARRANGE
HORSEBACK RIDING
Jungle · Rivers · Beaches
Explore tropical trails, rural landscapes and beautiful beaches on horseback.
SNORKELING
Discover life beneath the Pacific
Discover the underwater world of Costa Rica and explore marine life in suitable conditions.
BOAT TOURS & DOLPHIN WATCHING
Dolphins · Marine life · Pacific coast
Explore the Pacific Ocean, discover secluded beaches and look for dolphins and other marine wildlife.
Wildlife sightings depend on season and natural conditions.
HIKING & NATURE
Forest · Waterfalls · Viewpoints
Explore forest trails, natural landscapes and viewpoints around Guanacaste.
GOOD TO KNOW
At Las Estrellas de Sámara, we can help you find local operators and organize activities during your stay. Activities are provided by independent local operators. Prices, availability and conditions are confirmed directly with the providers.
NOT SURE WHAT TO CHOOSE?
Tell us what you love — ocean, wildlife, adventure or simply discovering hidden places — and we'll help you create the perfect day around Sámara.
Where to Eat in Sámara
Discover some of our favorite places to eat, enjoy a drink or experience the local food scene around Sámara. These are a few addresses we recommend to our guests.
These are some of the places we like to recommend to our guests. Sámara has a relaxed food scene with something for different tastes, from fresh seafood and grilled dishes to casual bites and international cuisine.
Our Local Favorites
El Ancla — Seafood
A great option for seafood lovers. Discover fresh seafood and enjoy the flavors of the Pacific coast.
Bahía — European Cuisine
A good choice for European-style cuisine in a relaxed beachfront setting.
A nice place to enjoy a drink and share something to eat in a casual atmosphere.
Our recommendation for anyone craving a really good hamburger in Sámara.
A grill restaurant for guests who enjoy grilled meats and flavors from the fire.
More Places to Discover
Sámara Sushi, Cos-Ita and Aroma are a few more places around Sámara worth asking us about. Please check current opening details directly before visiting.
Local Food to Try
Gallo pinto, casado, patacones, ceviche, arroz con mariscos, fresh tropical fruits and Costa Rican coffee are all worth discovering. These local flavors are a simple way to experience Sámara local food.
Please note: menus, opening hours and availability can change. Please check directly with each restaurant before visiting.
Discover Waterfalls Near Sámara
A short drive from Sámara, the Guanacaste countryside hides waterfalls surrounded by tropical dry forest. Ideal for a half-day in nature, they are best explored with a local guide.
Belén Waterfall
La Roca Waterfall
Santo Domingo Waterfall
Practical note: Water flow varies greatly by season, and some waterfalls may be almost dry during the dry season. Rocks are slippery: wear suitable footwear and only swim when conditions are safe. Check access and local conditions before setting out.
Experience Costa Rica’s Incredible Biodiversity
At Las Estrellas de Sámara, nature is a part of everyday life: howler monkeys at daybreak, scarlet macaws in the canopy, and hummingbirds and butterflies in the tropical gardens. Take the time to observe, to listen, and to let yourself be surprised by the dry forest of Guanacaste and its beaches, where sea turtles come to lay their eggs.
The animals featured live in the wild; sightings depend on the season, the time of day, and local conditions, and are never guaranteed. Please observe wildlife from a distance, and do not feed or disturb the animals.
Experience the Local Culture of Guanacaste
Guanacaste is the land of the sabaneros, marimba music, and rural traditions. Throughout the year, communities around Sámara come together to celebrate their history, faith, and local pride.
Dates and programs vary each year. Check local announcements or ask our team before planning your visit.
Christmas and New Year
Year-end celebrations bring families and neighbors together around traditional foods such as tamales, music, and gatherings on the beach.
Late December to early January; schedules vary by community.
Traditional Festivals and Rodeos
Tico-style bull riding, folk dances, marimba music, and local food stalls: village festivals are at the heart of life in Guanacaste.
Dates are set locally each year; check local announcements.
Horse Parades
Horse and rider parades celebrate the heritage of the sabaneros, often opening the local fiestas.
Held occasionally; dates vary.
Holy Week
Holy Week is one of the most important periods of the year, with religious processions, family holidays, and lively beaches.
March or April, depending on the liturgical calendar; book ahead.
Local Festivals
Patron-saint festivals, music events, and community gatherings shape life in Sámara and the surrounding villages.
Events vary; check local announcements for details.
Climate & Seasons
The Weather in Guanacaste – Sunshine All Year Round
Guanacaste is one of the driest regions in Costa Rica, known for its warm tropical climate and long periods of sunshine. Unlike many other parts of the country, this region enjoys a particularly well-defined dry season. But the rainy season has its own charm too. The weather is generally pleasant throughout the year, and every season offers a different way to experience the beaches, nature and relaxed lifestyle of the Nicoya Peninsula.
December – April
The Dry Season – Sunny days and beautiful beaches
This is the traditional dry season in Guanacaste. Rainfall is very limited, skies are generally clear and temperatures are warm. It is the perfect time for beach days, boat trips, snorkeling, fishing and exploring the coastline. April is usually one of the hottest months, just before the arrival of the green season.
May – November
The Green Season – Lush landscapes and tropical nature
With the arrival of the rains, Guanacaste transforms. The dry tropical forest becomes green again, rivers and waterfalls regain their flow, and the countryside comes alive. Rain showers often occur in the afternoon or evening, leaving plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities during the day. The green season is also a wonderful time to experience a quieter side of Costa Rica, with fewer visitors and vibrant natural surroundings.
July & August – A local favorite
The little summer – Veranillo
July and August are particularly enjoyable months in Guanacaste. During this period, a local weather phenomenon known as the Veranillo brings a temporary reduction in rainfall. Trade winds often make the temperatures feel more comfortable, while the surrounding countryside remains beautifully green. You can enjoy sunny periods, pleasant temperatures and lush tropical scenery without the intense heat of the driest months. For many visitors, July and August offer a wonderful balance between sunshine, nature and relaxation.
Every Month Has Its Advantage
■ Dry season (Dec – Apr) ■ Green season (May – Nov) ■ Veranillo (Jul – Aug)
Weather patterns can vary from year to year, and conditions are never guaranteed. Even during the rainy season, sunny periods are common in Guanacaste.
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
December – January: Beginning of the dry season, sunny days and ideal beach weather.
February – March: Very dry, sunny and warm. Excellent for outdoor activities.
April: Hot and sunny, with the transition towards the green season.
May – June: The landscape starts turning green, with occasional tropical showers.
July – August: The Veranillo brings a relative break in rainfall, pleasant breezes and beautiful green surroundings.
September – October: The heart of the rainy season, with lush nature and more frequent rainfall.
November: A transition month, as the rains gradually decrease and the dry season approaches.
Our little piece of Guanacaste
Discover Las Estrellas de Sámara
At Las Estrellas de Sámara, you can enjoy Guanacaste in every season. Whether you visit during the sunny dry season or the lush green months, our panoramic pool, ocean views and tropical surroundings make a wonderful place to slow down and enjoy the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Las Estrellas de Sámara
Your Home Base for Exploring Guanacaste
After a day of exploring the Nicoya Peninsula, return to the calm of Las Estrellas de Sámara: a panoramic pool, nature all around you, and an ideal base for discovering the beaches, villages and forests of Guanacaste.