Located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Samara is a small and beautiful town in the Guanacaste province. The main draw of this town in Nicoya peninsula is its light tan sand beach and the surrounding thick tropical forests. Unlike North Guanacaste, where the towns have taken a hit by development and commercialization, Samara still retains its charm of a rustic beach town, despite its popularity among expats.
There are many nice restaurants, supermarkets, souvenir shops, and other amenities in the town center. Walking along the main street of the town leads you to the main entrance of the beach where there is a small platform to get down to the beach. You can hit any of the beachfront bars, lie down on the beach, take a dip in the ocean, or sign up for surf lessons.
Samara is known for its magnificent sunsets, so do catch one while you are here.
Now, if you are wondering where to stay in Samara, we have prepared an extensive list of the best hotels in Samara to help you make your choice. So, let’s dive in!
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Factors for Deciding Where to Stay in Samara, Costa Rica
When deciding where to stay in Samara, it is important to consider whether you want to stay close to the beach and town center, or away from the town center. Each choice has its own advantages and downsides.
Near the Beach and Town Center
If you are a beach person, then you should choose to stay close to the beach. This is where the bus station is. There are plenty of restaurants, supermarkets, and other amenities in this area. You can easily walk to your destination. If you like to party, this is where you should be. The downside is that it may get a bit crowded and noisy during the busy season. If you are someone who likes peace and calm, this is not for you.
Away from the Town Center
This option is for those who like to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You may even get better options for hotels outside the town center. The downside is that you would need a car to go to the beach. There may or may not be restaurants and supermarkets in the area. You may have to walk a lot in case you do not plan to go by car.
While staying away from Samara town center, to make moving around more convenient, you may consider renting a car in Costa Rica. Check Disover Cars for browsing, comparing and booking deals across the best car rental companies in Costa Rica.
For recommendations on where to stay in other popular destinations of Costa Rica, check out the following best hotels guides:
- Best Hotels near San Jose Airport SJO
- Puerto Viejo de Talamanca Best Hotels
- La Fortuna and Arenal Best Hotels
- Santa Teresa Best Hotels
- Monteverde Best Hotels
- Tortuguero Best Hotels
- Tamarindo Best Hotels
- Uvita Best Hotels
- Jaco Best Hotels
- Best Eco-lodges in Costa Rica
An Overview: Best Hotels in Samara
Here is a snapshot of our pick of best hotels in Samara for different categories.
- Best Beachfront Hotel: Beach Front Bahia
- Best Sustainable Hotel: Hotel Giada
- Best Yoga Hotel: The Inner Light Yoga Lodge
- Best Adults-Only Hotel: Samara Chillout Lodge
- Best Family Hotel with Spa: Leyenda Boutique Hotel & Spa
- Best Budget/Affordable Hotel: Hotel Belvedere
- Best Hostel: Casa Terra
Before delving deeper into the details of the best hotels in Samara, Costa Rica, check out some of the guided activities/ tours that you can book during your time in this beautiful beach town:
- Off the coast of Samara Beach: Dolphin Watching and Snorkeling Tour
- Hiking Samara Trails in Werner Sauter Biological Reserve
- Chora Island: Ocean Kayaking and Snorkeling
Where to Stay in Samara: Budget/Affordable Hotels
Casa Terra
- Stay here: If you want to stay in hostel dorm with a relaxed family atmosphere.
- Highlights: Quiet location. Shared common areas and kitchen.
- Google Maps Location
Casa Terra is a budget hostel located in a lush setting, away from the hustle of the town center. Situated somewhat between Samara Beach and Buenavista Beach, the town is not too far away from the hostel. Bicycles are also available for rent.
With accommodation in dorms and access to shared lounge, terrace and kitchen, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay. The dormitories have shared bathrooms with cold showers and rooms have no ACs, demonstrating the hostel’s commitment to conservation efforts.
Note that this is not a party hostel, instead can become a simple and cozy home away from home where you get to enjoy the serenity of Costa Rica’s pure nature, and socialize and make friends in a relaxing environment.
Guests love the owners and the staff here who truly make a difference when you this hostel for staying in Samara. So, book a stay at Casa Terra not just for the unbeatable price tag, but for the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Click here to check prices and availability at Casa Terra.
Book Your Stay at Casa TerraHotel Belvedere
- Stay here: If you want to stay close to the town on a budget.
- Highlights: An outdoor pool and a jacuzzi, Proximity to bus station, Proximity to town, Rooms with terrace.
- Google Maps Location
Boasting a tropical garden with a wide variety of plants and trees, Hotel Belvedere is located 500 meters from Samara Beach. Howler monkeys will be your guests in the mornings. The hotel features air-conditioned apartments, single, double and triple rooms. The units are complete with a TV, a fridge, a work desk, a safety deposit box, and a terrace with pool views. The apartments come with a private kitchenette.
At the hotel, you will find an outdoor pool and a jacuzzi. The hotel staff can arrange tours and activities for you. Restaurants and supermarkets are within walking distance from the hotel.
Click here to check prices and availability at Hotel Belvedere.
Book Your Stay at Hotel BelvedereRelated Reading: Wildlife in Costa Rica
Samara Palm Lodge
- Stay here: If you wish to stay in a boutique hotel in a tranquil location, yet close to the amenities.
- Highlights: Warm hospitality, Proximity to town and beach, Swimming pool, Breakfast in garden setting.
- Google Maps Location
Tucked away in a lush garden setting, Samara Palm Lodge is a boutique hotel offering a peaceful retreat for those seeking tranquility and comfort when choosing where to stay in Samara. The lodge stands out for its serene atmosphere, warm hospitality by the owners, and convenient location just a short walk from the beach and local restaurants.
Guests can get a comfortable night’s rest in the tastefully designed rooms, each adorned with king-sized beds, traditional decor and modern amenities, then wake up to the gentle rustling of palm trees and enjoy a delicious breakfast on the cozy terrace overlooking the garden. The sparkling pool and comfortable lounging areas add to the character of the space.
Samara Palm Lodge is where we stayed at on our first out of many trips to Samara. As we were driving down late in the evening, the owners were kind enough to wait for us beyond the stipulated check-in time. Upon checkout, when we told her that we were going to Barrigona Beach before starting the drive back to Central Valley, she lent us couple of comfy beach chairs to carry in the car and use for the afternoon.
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Samara, we still highly recommend Samara Palm Lodge as one of the top hotel choices.
Click here to check prices and availability at Samara Palm Lodge.
Book Your Stay at Samara Palm Lodge
Hotel Giada
- Stay here: If you want to be close to the beach and feel the vibes of the town.
- Highlights: Proximity to beach & town, On-site restaurant, Sustainable property.
- Google Maps Location
One of the best hotels in Samara committed to sustainability, Hotel Giada is ideally positioned on the main street leading to the beach. There are 24 spacious rooms with tropical decor set around the pool. All rooms are air-conditioned and are fitted with a mini-fridge, a TV, a safety box, and a wardrobe. There is a balcony outside with seating and offers pool or street views.
The hotel features 2 swimming pools, plenty of lounge chairs, and a restaurant and bar. All amenities like supermarkets and restaurants are within walking distance. You can book tours and activities with help from the hotel staff.
Click here to check prices and availability at Hotel Giada.
Book Your Stay at Hotel GiadaCabañas Lamaite
- Stay here: If you have a car and do not mind staying out of town.
- Highlights: Sustainable property, Private kitchen, Cabin-style rooms.
- Google Maps Location
Located close to Buena Vista Beach, Cabañas Lamaite is a sustainable property offering cabin-style rooms. The rooms are air-conditioned and are complete with a full kitchen, a dining area, a living area, a closet, and a desk. Some rooms feature a balcony with pool views.
Bicycle rental and airport shuttle service is available at the property. The hotel staff can help you book tours and activities like hiking, snorkeling, fishing, and surfing. The outdoor swimming pool with lounge chairs and a gazebo with a bed make for amazing unwinding options.
Click here to check prices and availability at Cabañas Lamaite.
Book Your Stay at Cabañas LamaiteCosta Rica Travel Tip: If you like bicycling in beach towns, add Puerto Viejo de Talamanca to your Costa Rica travel itinerary. There you can comb several beautiful Caribbean beaches, enjoy meals from a wide selection of restaurants and cafes, and also learn a bit about the indigenous people of Costa Rica, while trying your hands at making chocolate! Sounds like an ideal destination for your travel style? Then also bookmark our best hotels guide for where to stay in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.
BellaVista Suites By Villas Verdes
- Stay here: If you are a digital nomad looking for a peaceful hotel.
- Highlights: Complimentary breakfast, Workspace for digital nomads, 24/7 reception.
- Google Maps Location
BellaVista Suites is located outside of the town center. The beach is a 10-minute walk away. The hotel features 14 air-conditioned suites overlooking the central courtyard. The units are furnished with a mini-refrigerator, a desk, a TV, a coffee maker, and a safety box.
There is a small gym, an outdoor pool, a jacuzzi, a restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views. at the property. A workspace is dedicated to digital nomads. The reception is open 24 hours and all days of the week. A viewpoint offers stunning views of the ocean and you can hear the sound of the waves in the evening. Bike rental service is available at the hotel.
Click here to check prices and availability at BellaVista Suites By Villas Verdes.
Book Your Stay at BellaVista Suites By Villas VerdesRelated Reading: When we started our Digital Nomad journey
Where to Stay in Samara: Mid-Range Hotels
Samara Chillout Lodge
- Stay here: If you want to be surrounded by peace and tranquility.
- Highlights: On-site bar, Rustic feel in the rooms.
- Google Maps Location
Surrounded by tropical gardens, Samara Chillout Lodge is a small, family-run boutique hotel. There are 4 superior rooms and 1 deluxe room furnished with an air-conditioner, a smart TV, and a safety box. Rustic furniture and handcrafted accessories give a natural feel to the rooms. The superior rooms feature a terrace or balcony with furniture.
Outside, there is a swimming pool with lounge chairs and a breakfast area overlooking the pool. You can enjoy sundowner cocktails at the on-site bar.
Click here to check prices and availability at Samara Chillout Lodge.
Book Your Stay at Samara Chillout LodgeHotel Villas Tangerine
- Stay here: If you wish to enjoy a homely feel on your vacation.
- Highlights: Adults-only, Complimentary breakfast, Option of a suite with kitchenette.
- Google Maps Location
Villas Tangerine is a small property located a bit outside of the town center. There are only 4 rooms at the property, so you get a very homely feel. The rooms are surrounded by well-maintained tropical gardens and offer air conditioning, a safety box, and a TV. Additionally, the suite features a kitchenette, a dining area, and a living area.
Outside every room, there is a patio with lounge chairs. There is also a shared ranch with a refrigerator for storing your drinks and leftover food. The swimming pool almost feels like a personal pool with very few guests on the property. Every morning, a delicious continental or Costa Rican breakfast is served.
Please note that this property is for adults only.
Click here to check prices and availability at Hotel Villas Tangerine .
Book Your Stay at Hotel Villas TangerineEco-Turismo Guayacanes
- Stay here: If you want to contribute directly towards conservation efforts of the Guayacán tree.
- Highlights: Eco-friendly property, Private kitchen.
- Google Maps Location
Nestled in a jungle with views of the mountains, Eco-Turismo Guayacanes is a tourism project committed to financing the Guayacán Real Foundation for protecting this endangered plant.
The property features air-conditioned cabins equipped with a private bathroom, a full kitchen with a dining area, a washing machine, and a BBQ grill. Every cabin offers a terrace with seating. Outside, there is a pool, a picnic area, plenty of hammocks, and a gazebo. Monkeys are your guests during your stay.
Click here to check prices and availability at Eco-Turismo Guayacanes.
Book Your Stay at Eco-Turismo GuayacanesThe Inner Light Yoga Lodge
- Stay here: If you are looking for a holistic wellness experience.
- Highlights: Accommodation design inspired by elements of nature, Yoga and therapies, Ayurvedic breakfast.
- Google Maps Location
Not a conventional hotel, The Inner Light Yoga Lodge is a yoga and holistic center in Samara. Located steps away from the beach in a tropical jungle setting, it offers a serene sanctuary for wellness enthusiasts.
There are 4 lodges inspired by the 4 elements of nature. Guests can book the lodge for accommodation based on the energy/element they prefer. Each lodge has room with private bathroom and hot shower, seating area, kitchen and dining area. Other amenities like AC, WiFi, Cable TV, hairdryer and coffeemaker are also offered.
But the highlight of The Inner Light Yoga Lodge is not the accommodation. It is a place of transformation and connection. As part of the experience, every morning guests receive complimentary yoga sessions and Ayurvedic breakfast made with ingredients grown on site. The center also offers holistic healing therapies, such as massage and Reiki, to further enhance guests’ well-being.
When deciding where to stay in Samara, Costa Rica, choose The Inner Light Yoga Lodge if you are looking that the perfect place to rejuvenate body, mind and spirit in a magical setting.
Click here to check prices and availability at The Inner Light Yoga Lodge.
Book Your Stay at The Inner Light Yoga LodgeCosta Rica Travel Tip: Another destination in Costa Rica where yoga, spirituality and beach days come together is Santa Teresa. It is further south on the Nicoya peninsula. You can drive to Santa Teresa from Liberia (or from Samara), or if coming from San Jose, can take the Puntarenas-Paquera ferry. There are many beautiful beaches in Santa Teresa, like the namesake beach, and also, Playa Carmen and Playa Hermosa. And, if you do manage to reach as far as Santa Teresa, you might as well check out the adjacent, much quieter beach town, Malpais. For a little more action, visit Montezuma or spend a night in Cabuya, the last town of Nicoya peninsula. But among all these towns, whichever one you choose to base yourself at, do make your way to the Montezuma waterfalls for an adventurous day.
Good Life Lodge
- Stay here: If you wish to stay in a spacious room with plenty of amenities nearby.
- Highlights: Proximity to beach, Complimentary bikes, Shared kitchen.
- Google Maps Location
Good Life Lodge is located 200 meters from Samara Beach and features a fully equipped shared kitchen (with free coffee), a garden, a jacuzzi pool, and bikes for use. Each unit comes with air conditioning, a flat TV, an outdoor dining area, a safety deposit box, and a patio with garden views. The hotel offers a paid airport shuttle service and serves a paid breakfast every morning.
The vibe here is all about relaxing and embracing the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Click here to check prices and availability at Good Life Lodge.
Book Your Stay at Good Life LodgeLeyenda Boutique Hotel & Spa
- Stay here: If you can stay away from town and are looking for indulgence.
- Highlights: Chic rooms, Spa and other onsite amenities, Services ans setups for planning beach day at Playa Carrillo.
- Google Maps Location
About 10 KM away from Samara town center, Leyenda Boutique Hotel & Spa is in the Carrillo town that has a pretty palm-fringed beach by the same name. It sits on a hilltop and enjoys panoramic views.
The hotel features beautifully designed rooms and suites, each exuding contemporary chic and lavish comfort, each coming with TV, AC and minibar, and private bathroom. Some rooms may have pool or garden views. Guests can indulge in the ultimate rejuvenation at the on-site spa that offers a range of therapeutic treatments and massages inspired by ancient techniques.
For planning an easy day out at the Carrillo beach, the hotel offers beach transportation service and sun beds, restrooms and showers on the beach for exclusive use by the guests of Leyenda. At the end of the day, you can get back to the hotel and enjoy some happy hour drinks. On the property premises, you will also find a children’s play area, 2 swimming pools and 2 on-site restaurants.
With its luxurious amenities and impeccable service, Leyenda Boutique Hotel & Spa is the perfect choice for an indulgent stay in Samara.
Click here to check prices and availability at Leyenda Boutique Hotel & Spa.
Book Your Stay at Leyenda Boutique Hotel & Spa
Where to Stay in Samara: High-End Hotels
Villas Kalimba
- Stay here: If you want to stay in a home away from a home.
- Highlights: Independent villas, Private kitchen, Large patio, Proximity to beach.
- Google Maps Location
Villas Kalimba is located a few steps away from Samara Beach. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, the property features six independent luxury villas. Each villa is fitted with an air conditioner, a TV, a living area, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a wrap-around terrace with a hammock and a dining area. You can choose from one-bedroom or two-bedroom villas. There is also a luxury house next door with five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a private swimming pool.
At the property, you will find a swimming pool with a bubbling waterfall. A paid breakfast can be arranged on a prior reservation. In case you are up for some fun in the sun, the hotel staff can help you book tours and activities in the area.
Click here to check prices and availability at Villas Kalimba.
Book Your Stay at Villas KalimbaRelated Reading: Best Waterfalls of Costa Rica
The Hideaway Hotel
- Stay here: If you want a premium accommodation in a peaceful setting.
- Highlights: Spacious rooms with terraces, Complimentary breakfast, Outdoor pool.
- Google Maps Location
The Hideaway Hotel boasts stylish and spacious rooms, beautifully decorated with soothing colors. It is a boutique hotel with only 12 rooms, each appointed with 2 queen-size beds, private bathroom, a terrace or balcony, and includes AC, WiFi, cable TV, hairdryer and refrigerator.
We had once stayed at The Hideaway on a ~2-week long work-cation and enjoyed every bit of the comfort the hotel offers.
There is an outdoor swimming pool and an onsite restaurant. Complimetary breakfast is included in the room rate and can be served at the patio by the pool. Be prepared, white-throated magpie-jays may occasionally accompany you on this semi-outdoorsy breakfast.
Insider tip: Although you can choose from a few set options for breakfast, take our recommendation and do not miss the breakfast burrito! It is filling and delicious.
On your vacation in Samara, if you are seeking tranquility and luxury combined in a secluded setting, stay at The Hideaway Hotel. Note that the hotel is a 10 minutes’ drive away from Samara town center. So, choose carefully if you do not own a vehicle or are not renting one.
Click here to check prices and availability at The Hideaway Hotel.
Book Your Stay at The Hideaway Hotel
Related Reading: A personal story of living the beach life while volunteering in Costa Rica
Beach Front Bahia
- Stay here: If you are fond of taking a dip in the ocean right after waking up.
- Highlights: Beachfront, On-site restaurant, Complimentary breakfast.
- Google Maps Location
A stone’s throw away from the beach, Beach Front Bahia is one of the best hotels in Samara. The hotel features apartments and rooms with private entrances, terraces, private bathrooms, and air conditioning. The apartments are equipped with a kitchenette, a living room, and a terrace with seating. You can enjoy sea views from one of the apartments at the property.
The hotel has an on-site restaurant and a bar that serves American, Belgian, and French cuisine. A complimentary continental breakfast is available at the property every morning. Car rental service is available, and you can enjoy squash at the property.
Click here to check prices and availability at Beach Front Bahia.
Book Your Stay at Beach Front BahiaHotel El Pequeño Gecko Verde
- Stay here: If you want to be in a quiet place, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Highlights: Access to a secret beach, Wildlife sightings, Complimentary breakfast.
- Google Maps Location
Set amongst tropical gardens, Hotel El Pequeño Gecko Verde is a boutique hotel on the Pacific Rim. The hotel features a large villa, seven luxurious lodges, and two romantic rooms. Most of the units are well-appointed with a full kitchenette, an air-conditioner, A TV, a living area, a patio with a seating area and a hammock, and a private outdoor shower. The family villa comes with a private pool. The units without a kitchen include a mini-fridge and a coffee maker.
There is a large, lagoon-colored pool with a waterfall at the property. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at the restaurant serving a variety of local and international flavors. Car and bike rental service is available. And here comes the best part – A path through the jungle leads to a secret beach and a cliff from where you can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Click here to check prices and availability at Hotel El Pequeño Gecko Verde.
Book Your Stay at Hotel El Pequeño Gecko Verde
This article has been written by Astha Garg and edited by Paradise Catchers, based on their own experiences of traveling and staying in and around Monteverde. Astha is a freelance writer who lives in Costa Rica and loves traveling.
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