🌴 Sámara (Guanacaste Province)

✨ Why Visit Sámara as a Future Expat?

Sámara is a laid-back beach town on the Nicoya Peninsula that blends Costa Rican charm with an international vibe. It’s known for its long crescent-shaped beach, gentle waves, and welcoming community. With a strong presence of expats from the U.S., Canada, and Europe, Sámara offers an easy transition into coastal living — especially for those seeking a peaceful, small-town lifestyle with access to yoga, international schools, and organic markets.

• 🛫 Distance from Liberia Airport (LIR): ~2.5 hours (110 km / 68 miles)

• 🏖 Beach Type: Wide, soft golden sand with palm trees and calm waters protected by a coral reef

• 🌦 Climate:

  • Dry Season: Late November to April

  • Rainy Season: May to November

  • Daytime Temps: 84–92°F (29–33°C)

  • Nighttime Temps: 72–76°F (22–24°C)

  • Annual Rainfall: ~70 inches (1,800 mm), with the heaviest rains in Sept–Oct

🏡 Live Like a Local – Rent a Condo or Casita for a Week

Try out the expat lifestyle by staying in a casita, beachfront bungalow, or modest condo in town or the nearby hills. Options range from $500–$1,200 per week depending on size, view, and proximity to the beach. Popular neighborhoods include downtown Sámara and the peaceful hilltop areas of Canto del Gavilan and El Torito.

You’ll get a sense of what it’s like to shop at the local market, cook with tropical produce, walk to the beach at sunset, and live without rushing.

🏨 Recommended Hotels (if not renting)

• Hotel Giada – Affordable, central, and family-friendly

• The Hideaway Hotel – Boutique feel just outside town near Playa Carrillo

• Hotel Belvedere – German-owned, clean, great for long stays

🍽️ Top Places to Eat

• Locanda – Beachfront Italian with fresh seafood and wood-fired pizza

• Roots Bakery & Café – Great for breakfast, smoothies, and vegan options

• Soda El Rancho – Local Tico food with a loyal following

• Bohemia Café – Healthy, modern fare with great coffee and Wi-Fi

• Ma Ma Gui – A local favorite for fresh pasta and friendly service

🎯 Top Things to Do

• Learn to surf – Ideal for beginners, with gentle, consistent waves

• Take a yoga or pilates class – Several studios offer drop-in classes

• Visit Playa Carrillo – One of the most beautiful, uncrowded beaches nearby

• Go horseback riding on the beach – Sunset rides are popular

• Join a turtle tour – Visit nesting grounds at nearby beaches like Camaronal

• Weekly organic market – Great way to meet locals and expats alike

💡 Expat Travel Tip

Sámara is especially popular with families and remote workers thanks to its walkability, low crime rate, and laid-back atmosphere. Many expats send their children to local or bilingual private schools like Sámara Pacific School. It’s also a great place to test car-free living — everything in town is within walking distance or accessible by bike or scooter.