Our recently family trip to Samara, Costa Rica was wonderful! We spent the week walking the beach, playing in the jungle, and exploring the Samara area with our two children. If you’re looking for a simple family travel guide for the Samara, Costa Rica you’re in the right spot.
Getting There & Getting Around
There are two major international airports in Costa Rica, San Jose or Liberia. If at all possible, fly into the Liberia airport if you’re planning to visit the Samara area. It’s much closer- two hours closer! The Liberia International Airport if very straightforward. However, the arrival section of the airport and customs is not air conditioned, causing you to feel like you’re in a hot box. Wear cool clothing on your flight and in the airport.
Many tourist rent a vehicle if their hotel or resort does not provide one. Sadly, there is where you’ll run into the off road car rental fee, which can double the price of your car rental. Costa Rica requires all international travelers to purchase an additional vehicle insurance for off road use- since many Costa Rican roads are unpaved. The insurance price ranges from $30-$50 per day. You can get around this fee if your travel credit card offers car insurance specifically for Costa Rica, that will cover off road/unpaved road use. You must bring written proof of your off road insurance. Otherwise, you may end of hyperventilating with your head in your hands like the family that was next to us.
Where to Stay in Samara
If you’re traveling as a family or large group, why not rent a home? We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Estate Mar Azul. With 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a private pool, on site maids, on site grounds keepers, and extraordinary views- Estate Mar Azul feels like paradise. The home sleeps 12 people, and is a jungle oasis. Just off the patio were macaws, iguanas, howler monkeys, frogs, and more! I definitely recommend staying here!
Address: VCWV+PF5, Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica, Barco Quebrado, Costa Rica
What To Do
In Costa Rica, they often “pura vida” which means pure life. That is exactly what you can enjoy when visiting the area. Go ziplining, horseback riding, kayaking, snorkeling, or surfing. Ride wild and free on a ATV, or explore the beach for turtles. You can do all of this in the Samara area at a reasonable price. My family and I recommend Wingnuts Canopy Tours for their professionalism, safety, and prompt response. It was also nice to work with one company for all our excursions. Don’t be afraid to go ziplining, our toddler loved it!
The beaches in Costa Rica are clean, beautiful, and warm. When traveling to the Samara Area be sue to visit: Playa Carrillo, Playa Samara, and Playa Buena Vista. Playa Buena Vista will take a 1 mile stroll to reach, but its definitely worth it!
Where To Eat
There were so many cool places to check out in Samara, Costa Rica. I’ll keep it simple by listing our family favorites:
Best Coffee Shop: Malehu Coffee Shop
Nice Breakfast: Roots Bakery & Cafe
Great Lunch: Limey’s Bar & Restaurant
FAVORTIE AND BEST OVER ALL: Gusto Beach Restaurant & Beach Club
What To Pack
Costa Rica is warm, so you’ll definitely need lots of sunscreen and cool clothing. You’ll spend lots of time outdoors to pack flip flips as well as closed toe shoes for ATV and hikes. If you travel to Costa Rica during the rainy season, don’t forget your umbrella and raincoats. There are daily thunderstorms during the rainy season. Last but not least, do not forget the insect repellant!
Save and share this travel guide. Best wishes on your Costa Rican adventure. Thanks for stopping by!
-Jennifer
