Samara

Punta Islita

Nestled into the lush northwestern coastline of the Guanacaste province, on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, Punta Islita is part tropical playground, part secluded hideaway. This area, which originally hosted slash-and-burn agriculture as well as cattle ranching, now entices the senses with sweeping views of a picture-perfect coastline, crystal aqua waters, and imposing green mountains.

Visitors may wish to take to the hills for a discovery hike among the diverse flora and fauna. If you are on a late afternoon excursion, look for the howler monkeys which clamor about at that time of day. Jet skiing, horseback riding, fishing, and kayaking are also popular thrills for the active-minded in the area. A zip-line tour might be just the ticket for guests who feel the need for a unique excitement experience.

If you’d rather drench yourself in Punta Islita’s natural beauty, settle into a cradling chair on the volcanic sand beach in the protected bay, and quench yourself in the golden sun and shimmering sea. Far from any possibility of urban hustle and bustle, you will easily recharge both your body and spirit in Costa Rica’s tiny haven of paradise.

Should you find yourself craving a touch of nightlife, the village of Samara is close by. Nightclubs, bars and giftshops await anyone who needs a temporary jolt during their soothing stay in Punta Islita.

This location proudly bears juicy fresh fruits which should be sampled liberally in both your meals and creative drinks while you enjoy your vacation. Coconut, mango, passion fruit and tamarind are all classic Costa Rican tastes with exotic appearances and flavors to enhance your sense of being away from it all.

Punta Islita is a gracious host to area artists; paintings and mosaics happily dot the wealthy village itself. The area’s surrounding rainforests, cliffs, and azure water are surely an inspiration for these talented folk to create an homage to the island itself as well as the emotions it stirs up in those who immerse themselves in it.

The island is always ready for company, although some times of the year may suit travelers better than others. May through November brings warms rains, but December through April remains toasty and dry. The unassuming vibe of pure nature combines with Punta Islita’s unique luxury to offer an exquisite dream getaway.

Samara

Half way down the west coast of the Nicoya Peninsula is a small village called Samara, located on a long sweeping half moon shape bay lined with palm trees. Samara has been a favorite with the local Costa Ricans and for years has been a traditional holiday or weekend getaway for the Ticos. Up until recently not to popular with American and Canadian tourist, the village usually has been a favorite for foreign tourist from Europe.

Samara’s small town or village is located along 2 main roads , one running along the beach the other coming down from the hills surrounding Samara and ending right on the beach. Most of the restaurants and small hotels are still run by local Costa Ricans, giving the village its authentic feel.

The waters off of Samara beach are shallow with small waves due to a protective coral reef, making swimming a favorite for families and adults as well. The protective reef is a favorite among snorkelers and scuba divers, adjacent to the reef and almost in the middle of the bay is Chora Island. A favorite pastime is taking one of the colorful kayaks out to Chora Island and to the coral Reef. Water sports abound in Samara, with kayaking, windsurfing, Kite surfing or surfing for beginners on the small waves. For larger waves one only needs to travel 5 miles south to Playa Camaronal. Horseback riding is also a favorite in Samara, whether just along the beach with a short hop over the bluff to the south a then on to the beach at Carrillo or inland to the waterfalls at Tobacco with its 3 falls and swimming holes.

Samara with its very laid back and tranquil atmosphere has made this a destination spot for those just wanting to escape. One can find a wide range of moderately priced rooms, from simple cabinas to small hotels or bed and breakfast hotels on the beach or in the hills surrounding Samara.

The weather in Samara follows the typical dry season from November to May and the rainy season from June to October. Yet this part of the Nicoya Peninsula does not see the amount of rainfall as the lower Pacific coast of Costa Rica.

As Samara is located farther up the Nicoya Peninsula there are several ways to get to this seaside village. A 4 and ½ hour drive from San Jose or 2 hours by car from Liberia International Airport, buses are also available to San Jose taking around 5 hours. Flying time to Samara from San Jose is 40 minutes with one of the small commuter flights.