THE SOULARA LOCAL GUIDE
Your insider's roadmap to what to do, what to see, and where to eat in Sámara.
Soulara Sunset & Snorkel Boat Trip
The Vibe: An exclusive, in-house ocean adventure right from our property.
The Experience: Step directly onto Soulara’s private boat for a premier cruise around the stunning Sámara Bay. We drop anchor near the reef for a pristine afternoon of snorkeling among tropical fish. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, we cut the engines so you can toast the sunset from the water.
Local Tip: Keep your eyes peeled! Depending on the season, our bay becomes a playground for migrating humpback whales and playful pods of dolphins. Book this directly with our front desk when you check in.
Surf Lessons At The Main Beach
The Vibe: Approachable waves and pure, salt-water adrenaline.
The Experience: Sámara is universally known as one of the safest, most consistent beginner-to-intermediate surf beaches in Costa Rica. The gentle rolling break is ideal for finding your footing without intense undertows.
Local Tip: Head down to the sand in the mid-morning just before high tide. Several excellent local instructors set up right on the beach—grab a board, spend two hours in the water, and you’ll be catching your first wave before lunch.
Kayaking or SUP to Isla Chora
The Vibe: A rewarding workout ending on a deserted island.
The Experience: Rent a stand-up paddleboard or a sea kayak and make the trek across the calm waters of the bay to Isla Chora Click to open side panel for more information , the distinct rocky island sitting just offshore. It takes about 30 to 45 minutes of paddling to reach its hidden, white-sand beach.
Local Tip: Pack a pair of water shoes and a snorkel mask. The island is a protected wildlife refuge teeming with marine life on one side and curious iguanas on the beach.
The Golden Sands of Samara Beach
The Vibe: A massive, palm-fringed horseshoe bay that feels completely untouched by major resorts.
The Experience: Samara Beach Click to open side panel for more information stretches for over three tracking miles of pristine, dark-golden sand sheltered by a coral reef. Because the outer reef breaks the heavy Pacific swells, the water here remains incredibly calm, shallow, and safe for swimming at any time of day.
Local Tip: Walk all the way to the southern end (towards Matapalo) around 4:00 PM. The low tide opens up vast reflective flats of sand that mirror the sunset colors perfectly.
Playa Carrillo (The Hidden Neighbor)
The Vibe: Postcard-perfect, raw tropical paradise just 10 minutes away.
The Experience: If you want a change of scenery, take a short drive or bike ride south to Playa Carrillo. It is a completely undeveloped beach with no buildings on the sand—just a stunning wall of leaning coconut palms, white sand, and crystal-clear turquoise water.
Local Tip: This is where the locals go to unwind. Pack a hammock, string it up between two palms right next to where the waves lap the shore, and enjoy a quiet afternoon away from the main town center.
The Central Plaza de Fútbol
The Vibe: A quiet, open-air slice of local town life.
The Experience: Located right in the heart of town, Sámara’s local soccer field is a classic community landmark. While actual organized matches are a rare special treat to catch, the open green space serves as a peaceful, unpretentious backdrop to daily town life where you can watch the clouds roll over the hills or locals catching up under the shade.
Local Tip: If you are staying in our street-facing Economy rooms, your private deck looks right over this open field, making it a great, spacious perch for a quiet morning coffee while watching the town slowly wake up.
Las Olas on the Beach
The Vibe: Ultimate beachfront relaxation with your toes in the sand.
The Experience: This is the quintessential Sámara dining experience. Situated right on the shoreline, Las Olas serves up incredibly fresh seafood, classic tropical favorites, and ice-cold drinks while the Pacific waves break just yards away. It’s the perfect place to transition seamlessly from a swim in the ocean to a relaxed lunch under the palms.
Local Tip: Time your visit for late afternoon. Grab an outdoor table on the sand, order a cold Imperial and some fresh ceviche, and enjoy front-row seats to the best sunset show in town.
Marea Surf Shop Cafe
The Vibe: High-quality specialty coffee meets surf culture.
The Experience: Part premium surf shop, part artisan cafe, this is the ultimate morning fuel stop in town. Marea brews up exceptional espresso drinks, refreshing cold brews, and delicious light bites surrounded by beautifully crafted surfboards and local gear. It’s got a vibrant, laid-back energy that perfectly captures the modern surf aesthetic of Sámara.
Local Tip: It is the absolute best spot to grab a perfectly pulled iced latte and talk waves before heading out for a morning session.
Limey’s Bar & Restaurant
The Vibe: The lively town favorite for cold beer and massive, satisfying plates.
The Experience: If you are looking for a high energy atmosphere, great music, and huge portions of comfort food, Limey’s is the place to go. Known for its friendly service and fantastic pub style menu, it’s a staple for both expats and travelers looking to catch a game, enjoy a legendary burger, or recount the day's adventures over a cold draft beer.
Local Tip: Come hungry. Their fish and chips and loaded burgers are massive, making it the ultimate spot to recharge your calories after a full day exploring the town.
GET IN TOUCH
Got Questions? We Are Here To Answer Them!
Give Us a Call
We are always just a phone call away and happy to help. US/Canada Direct: +1 720-271-3924 Whatsapp : +506 8346-2882
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Drop By and Talk
If you are already in town, our doors are open. Stop by the desk to say hello