Scouting Trip to Sámara, Costa Rica: 3–5 Day Checklist

Thinking about making Sámara your future home in Costa Rica? A 3–5 day scouting trip is the perfect way to get a feel for this charming beach town. Sámara is known for its calm bay, family-friendly vibe, and close-knit expat community. During a short trip, you won’t cover everything, but you will discover whether this slice of paradise fits your lifestyle.

✅ Day 1–2: Explore the Heart of Sámara

Stroll through town – Sámara is compact and walkable. Wander from the beach to the main street to see restaurants, wellness studios, and shops.
Relax on Playa Sámara – The calm, shallow waters make this beach one of the safest in Costa Rica. Picture yourself here for daily life.
Visit the Farmers Market (Friday mornings) – Great spot to meet locals, expats, and small business owners.

✅ Experience Local Life

Eat at a Soda – Grab a plate of casado at Soda Colochos or Soda La Perla.
Try international dining – Sámara’s diverse expat community brings Italian, Mediterranean, and fusion flavors.
Do a grocery run – Stop by Pali, Super Samara, or a local produce stand to see what weekly shopping looks like.

✅ Housing & Lifestyle Scouting

Tour rentals and homes – Line up a few viewings with a local realtor. Compare casitas, condos, and villas.
Explore neighborhoods – Walk both near the beach and the outskirts to see what feels right.
Check internet and utilities – Sámara attracts digital nomads, but speeds and costs vary by neighborhood.

✅ Day Trips & Surrounding Areas

Playa Carrillo – Just 10 minutes away, one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches (and often less crowded than Sámara).
Playa Buena Vista – A quiet beach north of Sámara, great for peaceful walks and spotting wildlife.
Playa Barrigona – Remote and stunning, with turquoise waters and soft white sand. Best for adventurous explorers.
Ostional Wildlife Refuge – If lucky with timing, see sea turtles nesting.
Wellness activities – Get a massage, try surfing, or check out holistic health offerings.

✅ Connect with the Community

Talk with expats – Many came for vacation and stayed. Ask about their journey and advice.
Visit schools (if relevant) – Sámara has international and bilingual options for families.
Join a class or activity – Surf lessons, horseback riding, or Spanish classes are great ways to connect.

✅ Where to Stay During Your Scouting Trip

Residencias Sámara – Comfortable apartments with kitchen setups.
The Hideaway Hotel – Quiet, boutique option near the beach.
Casa Tranquila – Modern villa with pool, perfect for families.
Casa Buenavista (Adults Only B&B) – Cozy and peaceful with personal touches.

Final Thought

In just a few days, you’ll know if Sámara’s relaxed pace, safe beaches, and community spirit align with your vision of life in Costa Rica. Many expats choose it because it feels like a true small-town paradise—laid-back, yet with enough amenities to stay comfortable.

👉 Once you finish here, consider comparing Sámara with Playas del Coco or Tamarindo to see which expat lifestyle fits you best.