Playa Samara is a beautiful beach town located on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. This charming town is known for its stunning beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and incredible wildlife. If you're planning a trip to Playa Samara, here's everything you need to know. Getting There Playa Samara is located on the Nicoya Peninsula, which can be accessed by car or bus. The closest airport is Liberia International Airport, which is approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Playa Samara. You can also take a bus from San Jose to Nicoya and then transfer to a local bus to Playa Samara. Beaches Playa Samara has a beautiful beach that stretches for 3 miles, with calm waters that are perfect for swimming and surfing. There are also several other beaches in the area, including Playa Carrillo, which is known for a more chill vibe.. Playa Buena Vista and Playa Barrigona are also popular spots for surfing and sunbathing. Activities Playa Samara offers a range of activities for visitors, from surfing and snorkeling to horseback riding and hiking. One of the most popular activities is visiting the nearby Ostional Wildlife Refuge, where you can see thousands of Olive Ridley sea turtles nesting on the beach. There are also several national parks in the area, including the Cabo Blanco Absolute Reserve and the Curu National Wildlife Refuge. Food Playa Samara has a range of restaurants and cafes, serving everything from traditional Costa Rican cuisine to international dishes. Seafood is a popular choice, with many restaurants offering fresh catches of the day. If you're on a budget, there are also many street food vendors selling delicious snacks and meals. Tips - Playa Samara is a relatively safe destination, but it's always a good idea to take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive items, and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. - The best time to visit Playa Samara is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. However, this is also peak season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. If you need more travel advice don't hesitate to let us know, we will be happy to point you in the right direction!

The Pacific North of Costa Rica is a region known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and vibrant culture. If you're planning a trip to this area, here's a guide to some of the best things to do and see. Beaches The Pacific North of Costa Rica is home to some of the best beaches in the country. One of the most popular is Tamarindo Beach, which is known for its soft sand and excellent surfing conditions. Playa Conchal is another popular beach, with crystal-clear waters and white sand made of crushed seashells. For a more authentic experience, head to Playa Samara, a quiet beach with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Activities There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in the Pacific North of Costa Rica. One of the most popular is surfing, with many beaches offering excellent waves for both beginners and experienced surfers. You can also go snorkeling or scuba diving to explore the vibrant marine life, or take a boat tour to see dolphins and whales up close. If you're looking for adventure, head to the nearby forests for a zip-lining or hiking tour. You can also take a canopy tour, where you'll fly through the trees on a series of cables and platforms. For a more relaxing experience, try a yoga class on the beach or take a sunset cruise. Food The Pacific North of Costa Rica is known for its delicious food, with a mix of traditional Costa Rican cuisine and international dishes. Seafood is a popular choice, with many restaurants serving fresh catches of the day. Try the ceviche, a traditional dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and served with vegetables. For a taste of Costa Rican culture, try the gallo pinto, a breakfast dish made with rice, beans, and spices. You can also try casado, a traditional lunch dish made with rice, beans, salad, plantains, and your choice of meat. For a sweet treat, try the tres leches cake, a sponge cake soaked in three types of milk and topped with whipped cream. Culture The Pacific North of Costa Rica is home to a vibrant culture, with a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Caribbean influences. One of the best ways to experience this culture is to visit the local markets, where you can find handmade crafts, fresh produce, and traditional clothing. If you are lucky enough you can catch some fiestas, and cultural events while visiting, make sure to ask your local friends! There is so much to explore while traveling in the Pacific North of Costa Rica, and while you are here visit Playa Samara!

Costa Rica is known for its stunning natural beauty, and as a leader in sustainable tourism. The country has made significant efforts to protect its natural resources, and develop a tourism industry that supports conservation and local communities. In fact, Costa Rica's ecotourism model has become a model for other countries in the world. If you're looking for an adventure that's also responsible and sustainable, Costa Rica is the perfect place to visit. Here's a guide to some of the best ecotourism experiences you can have in Costa Rica. 1. Experience the Rainforest: Costa Rica is home to several national parks and protected areas, including the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and Manuel Antonio National Park. These parks offer guided tours through the rainforest, where you can spot exotic wildlife like sloths, toucans, and monkeys. Many of the parks also offer zipline tours through the canopy, giving you a thrilling view of the forest from above. Remember to book with certified tour operators and make sure they follow sustainable tourism practices. 2. Go Whale or Dolphin Watching: The waters around Costa Rica are teeming with marine life, including dolphins, humpback whales, and sea turtles. A guided tour to see these animals in their natural habitat is a must-do experience, but be careful about the tour operators you choose: make sure they are following responsible whale watching practices, such as keeping a safe distance from the animals and not engaging in any behavior that could disturb them. 3. Learn about Coffee Production: Coffee production is an important part of Costa Rica's economy and culture. A visit to a coffee farm can give you insight into the process of growing and harvesting coffee, and provide you with a delicious cup of local coffee. Again, make sure to book with a certified tour operator that follows sustainable and ethical coffee practices. 4. Hike a Volcano: Costa Rica is home to several active volcanoes, which provide visitors with a unique hiking experience. While hiking a volcano is a challenging activity, the stunning views from the top are well worth it. Make sure to check with the park system for any restrictions or closures and follow the guidelines. 5. Support Local Communities: As you travel through Costa Rica, you'll have opportunities to visit local communities and learn about their customs and traditions. Purchasing souvenirs from local artisans or hiring local guides and chefs ensures that your tourism directly supports the local economy and contributes positively to the community. When booking your accommodation, consider eco lodges, which prioritize environmental and social responsibility. As well as volunteering and helping the community if you have the chance, there are many opportunities to give back and learn more while traveling. Final Thoughts Costa Rica's ecotourism industry is a shining example of how responsible tourism can support biodiversity conservation and local communities. By choosing sustainable travel options and taking care to support local communities, you can enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience that helps protect the environment and its people. Thanks for reading, and have a great trip!