During your ATV tour, you will likely encounter a wide range of exotic wildlife. During the tours, visitors get a chance to interact with a wide range of animals, such as monkeys, sloths, anteaters, toucans, and parrots. A few people gather for a generous breakfast and fresh-brewed, local coffee for about $8 at the cafs. However, visitors should always exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. Dont forget to head over to my other Costa Rica posts for more trip planning tips! Thank you for your feedback! From Smara beach, a guided turtle tour will take you to either Corozalito, Camaronal or Ostional beach where you commence your turtle hunt. Most commonly reached by car, the beach remains off the beaten path of tourists and therefore is pristine and without shops or street vendors. How better to explore Smaras surrounding area than by boat, stopping off to snorkel at all the best spots? The guys over at C&C Surf School have unbeatable enthusiasm for teaching you how to surf and are full of helpful advice. 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. Some people are surprised to learn just how important they are to marine life and the birds of Costa Rica. This is the easiest way to get there. 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. I actually rode a scooter up here, but I would only recommend that to experienced riders due to the road conditions and dangers on the way up. This tour gets rave reviews! This is basically two tours in one, and the cheaper option costs only $57 USD! - Some of the top-rated restaurants in Samara include El Lagarto, Lo Que Hay, Gusto Beach, Flying Taco, and Equis. Turtles are one of the highlights of Costa Rican wildlife. The great thing about Smara is that the calm waters (usually) are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding or SUP! 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 designed to promote physical, mental, and emotional health, and many people have reported significant improvements in their overall well-being after attending these retreats. Even if you havent tried stand up paddleboarding before, taking a paddleboarding tour is one of the best things to do in Samara. Keep in mind this is not like the waterfalls near Manuel Antonio. Samara is only 30 minutes from Nosara and it is a lot cheaper. In fact, we found the beach only by chance after searching around on the app called Maps.me for a new place to explore. As you ride, you'll get to take in the breathtaking views of the ocean, soak up the sun, and feel the gentle ocean breeze on your skin. - Yes, it is generally safe to swim in the ocean at Samara Beach, as the water is calm and there are usually lifeguards on duty. Smara has quite a few hostels, but there are only a couple that have good ratings: Matilori hostel Surrounded by Mango trees and just 50 metres away from the beach, you cant beat the location of this hugely popular hostel. Very good! Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, Smaras rather protected bay means the swells here are much calmer than nearby towns such as Nosara and Santa Teresa. While there, we ordered a pizza cooked fresh in their woodfired oven. With so many fun activities right on its doorstep, and that incredible beach, I cant understand why Smara isnt swamped with visitors. Of course, most prefer a leisurely paddle which you can do at low tide or on a calm day. We head to our final buffet breakfast before boarding the bus to our last destination on this adventure, Samara. A short drive out of town has you exploring waterfalls in the mountains, and on a short trip out to sea, you can snorkel with marine life or enjoy a cocktail on a sunset cruise. Gusto Beach is the best beachfront restaurant in Samara. (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! 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. You might see monkeys, lizards, small mammals, and exotic birds, all of which can be difficult to spot when exploring on foot. The walk takes you down to the waterfall, so be prepared for a 10 to 15-minute walk back up. Input your search keywords and press Enter. Not to worry, SafetyWing is here to help! The Macau reserve is close by so dont be surprised to find some flying around here too! I skipped this tour in favour of extra time spent surfing, but judging by the state of the girls on my tour group who went on it when they returned to the hostel, I definitely missed out! Samara, Costa Rica crime rates are low making it super safe for families and solo travellers as well. Most tours take around 2-3 hours and include multiple zip lines, suspension bridges, and other high elements that will test your bravery and push you out of your comfort zone. Posted on October 17, 2022 by Tasha Amy Share Tweet Pin Today is a travel day. One of the most popular places to catch some waves in Samara is Playa Dominical. From surfing to boat tours, kayaking, and horseback riding, this white-sand paradise is perfect for . Playa Buena Vista The great thing about Costa Rica is you can see dolphins all up the Pacific coast! This video is a list of 17 things to do around Samara, Costa Rica. If Italian food isnt your thing (Are you Ok? There are other beach clubs in Smara, but these are two of the best! It is on the south end of Samara beach and very secluded. The Dinner crowd/scene is a bit more rowdy while during the day it is very chill. You will never get bored as there's a lot of activities to try and a bunch of places to discover. Las Mariposas Just like Matilori hostel, Las Mariposas is just 50 metres away from the beach (Smara really is all about beachside living!). 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. How did you feel about the Hotel Villas Playa Samara. Taking Surfing lessons in the Nicoya area of Costa Rica is a rite of passage and pretty much something that should be mandatory! Additionally, visitors should wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are suitable for walking in the jungle. But those on a shorter trip can certainly visit in a day. If you're looking for a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure in Samara, Costa Rica, horseback riding on the beach is a must-try experience you won't want to miss out on. Tell the driver you are going to Carretera Belen he will know where to stop. A surf school I loved was calledTicos Surf School. The talent in this town is amazing to see! Many of these retreats offer classes that combine yoga with mindfulness practices such as meditation and visualization. Hotel Azura is a luxury all inclusive option that is a new spot in the area. The sky turns into a canvas of red, orange, and yellow, casting an enchanting reflection on the calm waters surrounding the boat. If you want to take the short road to Nosara (there is a shallow river crossing) or drive something a little more suited to the mountain roads around Smara, I recommend getting ATV instead. Beginners and experienced snorkelers alike can enjoy the abundance of marine life and breathtaking underwater landscapes that Cao Island has to offer. The Macaw recovery Network is around 45 minutes from Smaravia a bumpy road. The beach is wide and open, with a long shore break that allows for plenty of space to paddle out and catch some waves. If you dont have your own car, youll need to rent a scooter or ATV (more on that below), take the bus, or organize a tour/taxi. It's a great way to get up close and personal with local wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and even turtles during nesting season. Those without a rental 4wd shouldopt instead to do this guided tour. This mangrove kayaking tour in Smaratakes you out to the Ora River, where youll enjoy a leisurely paddle with only the sound of nature around. The thrill of seeing these animals up close will make the trip even more unforgettable. This tour is the better option but costs $50 USD per person. Check out availability and reviews here. The underwater world is simply breathtaking, with colorful coral reefs and a variety of marine life. We couldnt find the trail at first, but the lady who lives in the house at the restaurant pointed us in the right direction. Another unique aspect of the yoga and meditation retreats in Samara is the beautiful surroundings. Beaches The main beach, Playa Samara, is the area's most popular and for good reason. 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. One of the main attractions of Samara is the urban area. The waves here can be a bit more challenging, but the rewards are well worth the effort. To do so, pop down to the beach in the morning and speak to one of the surf rental shops. It is known for its scenic beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and exceptional surfing spots. 1. But Samara is also a fabulous base for a tonne of awesome activities thatll keep you entertained for days! Samara Samara and Carrillo The beautiful curved bay of light grey sand and gentle waters of Playa Samara has attracted vacationing Ticos and foreigners for years. Unfortunately, Bailey is allergic to horses, so we often shy away from horseback riding tours. The roots of the mangroves form an intricate network, creating a maze-like landscape that kayakers must navigate through. This blog may contain affiliate links. Always wear your safety gear and listen to your guide's instructions, and be aware that the river conditions can change quickly. One week when we crossed, there was almost no water. - 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. 15 Fun Things to do in Puerto Limn, Costa Rica. Even I found the paddle challenging when the sea was rough in some sections. Playa Carillo and Playa Barrigona are about 10-15PM away and are two of the most beautiful beaches in not only the Nicoya but in all of Costa Rica. (2023), 16 Brilliant Things To Do In La Fortuna & Arenal (Costa Rica) In 2023, Basic Costa Rica Tour with G Adventures Review & My Experience, Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica A Detailed Travel Guide, 10 Best Food + Drinks to Try in Costa Rica, What You Need To Pack For Costa Rica: My Ultimate Packing List. Horseback riding through the jungle sounds absolutely amazing, and I can imagine how incredible it must have been to be surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. @media(min-width:0px){#div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0-asloaded{max-width:250px!important;max-height:250px!important}}if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'manymoremaps_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_15',113,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0');@media(min-width:0px){#div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0_1-asloaded{max-width:250px!important;max-height:250px!important}}if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'manymoremaps_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_16',113,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-manymoremaps_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0_1');.mobile-leaderboard-2-multi-113{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:15px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:15px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;min-width:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Yes, Smara is safe, and I didnt feel concerned for my safety at all whilst I was here unlike in a few towns on the Atlantic coast of Costa Rica where harassment was a problem. The adventure starts in the late afternoon, when the sun is just starting to descend. Along the way, youll enjoy spectacular views and visit remote towns seeing how many Costa Ricans actually live. In conclusion, horseback riding on the beach in Samara Costa Rica is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you'll cherish forever. The Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with sparkling blue waters and stunning rock formations. Note: 2 Gringos Brewing tasting room is located in Cocos Mexican Restaurant, so you can eat delicious tacos while you drink beer its a win-win! To reach the Nauyaca Waterfalls, you will need to take an approximately 5-kilometer hike through a beautiful jungle landscape. You canfind its location here. Those with a car can easily reach the beach from town. SEE DETAILS $125 +tax Gravity Falls Waterfall Jumping Suppose youre not a surfer, dont stress too much about spending lots of time at the beach. That said, there are enough great restaurants in town serving up both local and international cuisine, so you wont be disappointed. As ever, all opinions are my own. There are a few activities on this list that really require wheels. This pristine island is well known around Costa Rica, and you can actually do tours from Montezuma, Jaco, and even San Jose. Werner Sauter Biological Reserve is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon. 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. Rosi's Soda Tica in Nosara, across the street from the beach, is the most popular one in town. Here are my top picks: Dont forget to check out my post on traditional food and drinks to try in Costa Rica! Snorkeling Paddleboarding & Snorkeling Samara Stand up paddleboarding, or SUP for short, is an easy and fun way to explore the waters just off Playa Samara. Smara is a small town, so youre not going to be overwhelmed by choice of places to eat here. While many visitors are drawn to its white sand beaches and lush tropical jungles, one of the most unique and memorable experiences in Samara can be found just a short kayaking trip away. 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. Samara, Costa Rica is a beautiful and vibrant beach town on the Pacific coast. To start coverage you must purchase it after leaving your home country. Unfortunately, the tour is 18+ only, so youll have to leave the kids at home (bummer!). Crowds from the holiday season have tampered off a bit and you are still not in rainy season. This, along with the towns safe atmosphere, provides visitors with an ideal beach destination in Costa Rica. The mangrove kayaking tours take you far away from the beach to explore one of the most important ecosystems in Costa Rica. Finding the waterfall is pretty easy with Google Maps. Many people opt to visit the nearby coastal surf town of Tamarindo. While waves are gentle, swimmers should still take care and watch out for strong currents and riptides. Naturally I got one of those and it was very, very yummy. The trail also visits a viewpoint with a short detour, but its really not that beautiful. One night in a 6-bed dorm costs around $15, with a private double room costing $40. Watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean while enjoying drinks and snacks on a boat tour. If taking the bus, tell the driver to stop atBar La Roca. There are so many water activities to do such as kayaking, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, deep sea diving, paddle boarding, horseback riding, dolphin watching, and hiking (you can even go sloth hiking !). The other tour lasts for 2 hours and is more about viewing the birds and taking photos. There are plenty of restaurants along the beach and on the main strip. Whether you are seeking thrilling outdoor experiences or just looking to relax and unwind amidst stunning natural surroundings, Samara has it all! With so much natural beauty to enjoy, it's no wonder that Cao Island is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Samara, Costa Rica. If youre travelling as a couple (or just prefer your own space and a few extra luxuries) staying at a hotel or guesthouse in Smara is the ideal option for you. - Yes, there are plenty of outdoor activities in Samara such as surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, horseback riding, zip-lining, hiking, and bird-watching. If youre looking for a new beach town to check out not far from Smara, look no further than Nosara. The Best Nosara Travel Guide: Where to eat in Nosara, Where to Stay & What to do! Obviously, like everywhere else in Costa Rica, stay sensible, keep an eye on your belongings, and dont go wandering around dark alleyways by yourself at night, and youll find that Smara is a perfectly safe place to visit in Costa Rica. This cute little cafe in Playa Samara, just off the main street, is a great spot to grab breakfast or lunch. Are you considering visiting the surf town of Smara in Costa Rica? Located just a short boat ride from the town of Sierpe, Cao Island is a great place to explore the underwater world of Costa Rica. I recommend World Nomads for travel insurance and would NEVER travel uninsured. More lounge-y! The sleepy coastal town of Smara is often the go-to choice for a family getaway in Costa Rica. Seeing one is a bucket list expereince. One of the things that I absolutely loved doing there was exploring the stunning beaches. The contrast is insane! 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. Exploring Shawnee, PA: Top Activities and Attractions to Enjoy, Exploring the Charms of Catawba County, NC: A Guide to the Best Things to Do. Tours to Werner Sauter cost around $50 USD per person and are guided. Brenda was excellent! Brightly colored birds flutter overhead, while monkeys and iguanas cling to the branches above. About Playa Samara. There are a variety of amazing outdoor activities to choose from. It serves up juices, crepes, paninis, pastries and some unique coffees. Costa Rica is fairly safe, but being careful and visiting safe destinations doesnt prevent plain old bad luck from happening! Here are my picks for the best places to stay in Smara. The best place in town to rent a scooter from isEl Cactus Scooter Rental. From San Jose, the bus takes around 4 hours and costs around $8 one-way. Playa Samara Things to Do in Playa Samara Things to Do in Playa Samara, Costa Rica - Playa Samara Attractions Things to Do in Playa Samara Popular things to do Nature and Wildlife Tours Kayaking Tours 4WD Tours Eco Tours Snorkeling Top Picks Private Drivers Tours & Sightseeing Private & Custom Tours Day Trips & Excursions Sporting Events Navigating the mangroves can be a challenge, but it's also part of the fun. Theres an opportunity to snorkel and dolphin-spot on the journey before you settle in to witness the sunset over drinks. If youre not that confident,you can do this SUP tour in Smarathat takes you to Playa Carrillo Bay. The boats used for the sunset cruise are spacious and equipped with comfortable seats, shaded areas, and bathrooms. Surrounded by a protected reserve, the island boasts a rich biodiversity that attracts snorkelers and divers from all over the world. If you are looking for hotels though, below are the best hotels in Samara based on each pricing level. During wet season, I would avoid the short cut from Nosara to Samara. Kayaking and Snorkeling Tour to Chora Island Overall 73.5% (10 Guest Ratings) Adventure, Nature, Beach, Snorkeling Kayaking and Snorkeling at Chora Island (Isla Chora) is an excellent combination tour to kayak to a beautiful tropical island near Samara, Costa Rica where you can then go snorkeling. This exhilarating experience will allow you to soar through the lush forests of Samara while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Pacuare River is known for its lush rainforest surroundings, exciting rapids, and stunning scenery. Smara isnt far away from the Ora River, a popular kayaking spot in Costa Rica. Don't miss out on this hidden gem! If you go before 11 pm, there are many people around, and Smara is a very safe town in Costa Rica. On top of that, its located right on the beach. Whether you are a nature lover or just someone looking for a unique and exciting way to explore the jungle, an ATV tour in Samara is a must-do activity. With alcohol, soft drinks and snacks all included in the price of the cruise, this is without doubt the most epic way to catch the sunset in Smara. Perfect for those who want a true Costa Rican stay. The hostel has a great atmosphere for meeting other travelers and is suited to the social backpacker. Overall, Samara is a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. There are buses twice daily from the Liberia Airport and you can see that schedule here. Visit Smara Types of activities Smara Travel Guide Samara Attractions It's not surprising that so many tourists keep coming back to Samara again and again. This route is through Nicoya on Route 21. Playa Smara, also known as simply Smara, is a wonderful beachfront town to visit with kids, located on the Nicoya Peninsula in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica. One of the best tours in Smara is theDiria Coffee tour. Overall, a canopy zip lining tour is an exciting and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Samara. This is the beginning of the trail. All that costs only $42 USD! 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. Kayaking through the mangroves of Isla Damas is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed during a visit to Samara, Costa Rica. The warm waters of Samara offer excellent opportunities for underwater exploration and marine life viewing. If you are looking for a nice dinner in Samara Beach, this restaurant is a nice option. If youre completely new to surfing or want to improve your skill with a coach, then you can join a surf lesson right on the beach.
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