After falling in love with Costa Rica on our first trip there back in 2014, we decided to return with our family. Our research led us to the small beach hamlet of Samara on the Nicoya Peninsula. If you’re looking for fast-paced, in-your-face party towns, Samara is not for you. But if you want that low-key beach “village” feel, Samara is the place.
We researched the varied accommodation options available in Samara. There are a number of funky “bohemian” type options, as well as quaint hotels & lodges. Given our group size of seven, we opted for a mountainside rental home that overlooked Playa Samara, called Villa Costa del Sol (part of the Samara Reefs development).
The home is designed around and for the stunning view and prevailing breezes. And it was as portrayed in the website. Lovely. Even after viewing the stunning drone and still shots of the villa online, seeing the home on arrival took our breath away.
Some of the highlights:
• Driver/Guide transfer from the Liberia Airport to/from the home on arrival and departure is included in the rental.
• There was access to a driver/guide nearly any time of day (for nominal fees) to transport us to town, tours, grocery store, etc. which was a huge plus. The two drivers we used were extremely accommodating and friendly.
• The villa includes wonderful housekeeping and daily gourmet breakfasts. The housekeeping team were lots of fun, and food prep & presentation was really special.
• The same team also offered custom meal preparation for lunches and dinners, if desired, for a nominal feel & service charge, which we took full advantage of… enjoying every meal on the lovely outdoor patio adjacent to the infinity pool!
• Samara has yet to be influenced by the toxin of over-tourism, and the local who provide services, tours, etc., etc., etc., are extremely genuine and friendly. The vibe alone is worth going there!
• The town, beach and neighborhood are very safe.
• The villa owner provided comprehensive feedback, assistance, answers to our every question and need, before & during our stay.
• Howler monkeys were within earshot of the home nearly every day, as was a parade of butterflies & colorful birds.
• Samara Info Center did a wonderful job arranging the numerous activities we enjoyed during our stay.
The combination of the stunning Villa Costa del Sol, its staff and owner customer service, and the wonderful “Samara vibe” make this one of our best vacations ever, and we can’t wait to return!