Soulara Hotel

The Blue Iguana Is Now Soulara Hotel. Welcome To Our Reimagined Experience!

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Soulara Hotel

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About Us

Born From A Dream - Rooted In Samara

Built On A Love For The Ocean.
And The Beauty Of Uncomplicated Living

Soulara didn’t begin with a corporate boardroom or a cookie-cutter hospitality blueprint. It started with a genuine passion for the raw beauty of Costa Rica, a deep connection to the healing power of the sea, and a clear vision of what travel should actually feel like. We believe that the best journeys aren’t about excess. They are about space, clarity, and finding a peaceful place to land.

The name Soulara was born from a desire to capture the very essence of our home. We wanted a name that felt as special as the experience we offer, so we decided to create a little "word mashup", a portmanteau to you scholars. By blending the deep, restorative "soul" of our guests with the vibrant, laid-back magic of "Sámara" we formed one new identity. It’s our way of saying that this hotel isn’t just a building in town; it’s a place where your spirit and the feeling of the Sámara coastline finally come together as one.

We took a bold leap of faith to transform this property into an approachable, pristine haven where the noise of the world slows down and the natural rhythm of Sámara takes over.This isn't just a place to stay; it’s a personal dream built to be your modern sanctuary by the sea.

Photo of Samara at sunset
image of Bendrien family
Photo of Bendrien family
Photo of Costa Rican jungle
Photo of 4 women talking poolside
Image of Jodi with a Needlefish

MEET OUR STAFF

Great stays aren’t just defined by beautiful spaces; they are built by the people who welcome you into them. At Soulara Hotel Sámara Costa Rica, we are a family-owned team bound together by a shared love for Sámara, a passion for genuine hospitality, and a commitment to making your time in Costa Rica completely seamless. The best travel memories are made through connection. Not just with the stunning coastline, but with the people who know it best.

Jodi & Don Bendrien

Owners

Welcome to Soulara Hotel and Retreats, the dream brought to life by me & three generations of my family; amidst the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica.

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Bryan Mora Venegas

General Manager

This is the first paragraph or the first 50 words of the passion statement that everyone will see.

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Skip Bendrien

Operations Manager

I fell in love with Costa Rica the moment my toes touched the sand – and never left. I’ve been living in this beautiful country since 2024...

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Lucia Murcia Cordero

Scuba, Snorkle Guide & 1st Mate on Head Office

Hi, I'm Luci - a diver, mom, and passionate believer in the kind of adventures that ignite the soul.

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Kamila Garro Moretti

Bar & Special Events

Hi! I'm Kami, and I'm an Argentinian that Samara caught with her beautiful lifestyle.

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Ready For Samara? Check out our accomodations.
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GET IN TOUCH

Reach out however is most convenient for you, and we will make sure you are taken care of.

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

Send Us an Email

Prefer to put it in writing? Drop us a line anytime.

Drop By and Talk

If you are already in town, our doors are open. Stop by the desk to say hello

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Jodi & Don Bendrien

Welcome to Soulara Hotel and Retreats, the dream brought to life by me & three generations of my family; amidst the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica. My roots have been intertwined with this vibrant land since first visiting, and it’s always been my visions to share its magic and warmth with others.

We have poured our hearts into creating a place where guests don’t just stay but truly connect with the natural beauty and rich culture that surrounds it. At our core, we believe in genuine hospitality. When you step through our doors, you’re not just a guest; you become a part of our story.

We personally oversee every detail, from the comfort of your room to the authentic flavors served in our bar and restaurant. Ensuring your stay is filled with a lifetime of memories, we are here to make sure every step of your vacation is perfect. Our passion for Costa Rica shines through in everything we do, and we love sharing our favorite local spots, hidden gems and tips & tricks we know.

We invite you to experience a true essence of “Pura Vida” with us. Whether your seeking adventure, relaxation or a deep dive into our local traditions, our family if here to make your Costa Rican getaway truly special. We are committed to providing a peaceful sanctuary where memories are made, friendships are forged, and the spirit of this incredible country embraces you. The greatest discoveries are made when we allow ourselves to get lost in the natural world, only to emerge feeling more centered and whole.

Bryan Mora Venegas

Over fact all son tell this any his. No insisted confined of weddings to returned to debating rendered. Keeps order fully so do party means young. Table nay him jokes quick. In felicity up to graceful mistaken horrible consider.

Skip Bendrien

I fell in love with Costa Rica the moment my toes touched the sand – and never left!

I’ve been living in this beautiful country since 2024 and you will find me at the hotel , on our boat; or enjoying a cold beer on the beach. Retiring in Costa Rica isn’t just about moving to a new country, it’s about stepping into a whole new way of life. Imagine waking up to the sound of monkeys, the scent of the tropical air, and the feeling of warm sunshine each and every day I can. 

This is a place where life slows down, where vibrant greens of the rainforest meet the endless blue of the Pacific Ocean, and where the philosophy of “Pura Vida” isn’t just a saying, but a principal of life. I found my dream in a place where peace and adventure co-exist, and everyday feels like an opportunity to discover. This is the ultimate reward after working for 5 decades in the oil & gas sector of Alberta, Canada.

 

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Minor Sanchez Garcia

Over fact all son tell this any his. No insisted confined of weddings to returned to debating rendered. Keeps order fully so do party means young. Table nay him jokes quick. In felicity up to graceful mistaken horrible consider.

Lucia Murcia Cordero

Hi, I’m Luci – a diver, mom, and passionate believer in the kind of adventures that ignite the soul.

Although I grew up in the city, I’ve been in love with the ocean for as long as I can remember. That passion led me to study Marine Biology and Natural Resource Management, and for over ten years I’ve dedicated my career to sustainable tourism, creating meaningful nature based experiences, and developing environmental education and marine conservation programs.

I founded my own dive center, Dive Buddies, in the beautiful coastal town of Sámara, Costa Rica. Here, I’ve had the privilege of exploring the incredible marine life that calls these waters home while also discovering the warmth, tranquility, and genuine sense of community that make Sámara such a special place.

My goal is to inspire people to discover just how extraordinary the ocean truly is, to experience its beauty safely, and to show that there are countless ways to appreciate and protect it. Whether it’s through diving, education, or simply spending time by the sea, I hope every experience fosters a deeper connection with the ocean and a desire to care for it for generations to come.

Kamila Garro Moretti

Hi! I’m Kami, and I’m an Argentinian that Samara caught with her beautiful lifestyle.

I am the face behind the bar & event coordinator at Soulara Hotel and Retreats.

I love hosting and meeting people from all places!