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Condo

Large condo. Home away from home!

Photo gallery for Large condo. Home away from home!

Living room looking in to the kitchen
Living room
Dining and living room
Media center
Kitchen & separate laundry room.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 7

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 7)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Double Futon and 1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Bunk Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Large condo. Home away from home!

Casita Ruiz is located in the Plaza Samara building in the center of town, only two blocks from the beach, and mere steps from all the restaurants and shops.

This 3-bedroom condo sleeps seven people comfortably, with the master bedroom having a queen bed and en-suite bathroom. The second, large bedroom is also a queen, and the third bedroom holds a bunk bed that is a twin over a full. The kitchen is well-equiped and there is an in-unit, full-sized washer and dryer. This condo has WiFi and cable, as well as access to the building's private pool, and two parking spaces within a gated yard.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking in the property. If smoking occurs your security deposit will not be refunded.
Located in the center of town so there is typical street noise in the mornings and some evenings.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 1300289vb
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a deadlock

About the area

Sámara

Located in Sámara, this condo is in the city centre and near the beach. Travellers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Museo Islita, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Samara Beach and Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Camaronal. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and scuba diving nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and ecotours.
Map
Sámara, Provincia de Guanacaste

What's nearby

  • Samara Beach - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Carrillo Beach - 13 min drive - 7.1 km
  • Playa Barrigona - 16 min drive - 12.3 km
  • Guiones Beach - 25 min drive - 23.9 km
  • Playa Pelada - 35 min drive - 30.8 km

Getting around

  • Nosara (NOB) - 56 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Las Olas Beach Club - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Sheriff Rustic - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Gusto Beach Club - Samara - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Roots Bakery & Café - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Bar y Restaurante del Hotel Bahía - ‬11 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Does Large condo. Home away from home! have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is Large condo. Home away from home! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Large condo. Home away from home!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Large condo. Home away from home!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Large condo. Home away from home!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Large condo. Home away from home! located?

Located in the heart of Sámara, this condo building is 0.2 mi (0.3 km) from Samara Beach and within 6 miles (10 km) of Carrillo Beach and Buena Vista Beach. Playa Barco Quebrado and Playa Barrigona are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 22 out of 25 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 25 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 25 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 25 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 25 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.4/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jim F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The location was perfect, the host welcoming and very helpful and accommodating, kitchen amenities were in good condition and included everything you need
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Josh F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

amazing stay

close to everything, super friendly host and beautiful condo 10/10
Stayed 9 nights in Apr 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Doug H.

Unbeatable location in heart of small surf town.

The condo was well equipped and perfect for our needs....Thanks very much!!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
Thank you Doug. We think the location is unbeatable as well! We welcome you and your family back anytime.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Steve E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A wonderful place to be!

This was our 4th trip to Samara and we love the convenient location. Karen, our host was great to deal with. Prompt communication, responsive to our inquiries. We will be back!
Stayed 11 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Mar, 2023
Wonderful Steve. We would welcome you and you’re family back, anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sierra F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic centrally located getaway!

This place was perfect, centrally located and had everything you need for vacation. We were concerned about the corner location on the busy road as mentioned in other reviews but it was absolutely fine. A little noise here and there but never woke us up or was a bother, rather it added to our experience of a bustling foreign getaway. We used a fan that drowned out 99% of the noise. The check in and out process was super smooth and Tyron was lovely to chat with. The property felt secure and well cared for and the pool was a huge bonus for enjoying the evenings with a glass of wine. Tons of restaurants, grocery stores and a 5 minute walk to the beach. Plentiful hot water and cold AC. All around wonderful place and wonderful hosts. We’ll be back soon!
Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

Comfortable, roomy, great location, all the amenities you could want for a laid back vacation.

We loved Casita Ruiz in Samara. The space was huge - all bedrooms large with plenty of storage. Plenty of towels and a well equipped kitchen. The washer dryer was a plus. And air conditioning in a tropical climate is a relief! The town a laid back vibe that I’ve not experienced anywhere else. Large developers haven’t made it to Samara so there are no mega resorts - only small family run hotels and restaurants. And the food in those restaurants! Seafood, pasta, Mexican - some of the consistently best food I’ve ever eaten on vacation. Prices reasonable - dinner between $20-30 without drinks. There are less expensive options - including cooking at home. There is a supermarket two lots away from Casita Ruiz- very handy. Activities - there is a small tour company (Carrillo) across the road. We did kayaking snorkeling whale watching and turtle egg laying. All well organized and reasonably priced. Come to Casita Ruiz in Samara for relaxation and fun. I know we’ll be back!
Stayed 11 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
Sarah, I just saw this review. Thank you SO MUCH for your kind words. We cannot wait to have you back at Casita Ruiz in the future. Best, Karen
Verified

6/10 Okay

Alex B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Disliked: Location

Loved it / Hated it

Condo itself was great. 2 large bedrooms with tons of storage. 3rd bedroom had bunk bed with double bottom and single top. Storage for this room was in the hall. Two bathrooms. A/C and ceiling fans in all the rooms. Utility room with washer/dryer and beach toys and chairs. Kitchen equipped with lots of pots and pans for cooking. Really good wifi. 2 minute walk to the beach, grocery stores, countless restaurants. Too bad because in our 35 years of travel it is the noisiest accommodation we have ever stayed in. The condo is above the only intersection in the small town. Major mode of transport is dirt bike, motorcycle, or quad. The rev down to turn the corner and rev up away from the corner. Heavy trucks use their jake brake coming down the hill into the town. Open air bar with live music across from bedrooms 2&3. Partying hostel across from bedroom 1. So expect noise late into the night and early in the morning because people head to work @ 5:30 am. We had no sleep for 12 nights. Industrial earplugs didn’t do the trick. If you are a light sleeper, you might be in trouble. Too bad it was too noisy for us, as everything else was perfect.
Stayed 12 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Helen

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect location

Nous avons apprécié notre séjour La communication avec la propriétaire s’est passé et l arrivée s’est bien déroulé L’emplacement est parfait Quelques minutes de marche de la plage Prêt des restos, épiceries ect Pratiquement pas besoin de prendre la voiture Le condo est grand et les espaces communes Sont bien aménagé La cuisine est bien équipé Il manque de rien !
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Raoul L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent

Excellent Nous garderons un excellent souvenir des lieux et de celui qui nous a reçu.
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jody C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Samara Experience

We love this place. Spacious, well-equipped and a very quick walk to the beach and restaurants. Noisy at night but worth it.
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristen S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location

Located in town. You can walk to anything. Everything you need in the kitchen to be able to cook your own meal if you desire. Plenty of room in the living area and bedrooms. Nice covered area next to the refreshing pool.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kelly R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome stay!

Karen’s place was perfect for us. Well equipped, great property manager who is extremely helpful and kind. Great location and price.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2021
Verified

8/10 Good

William C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

-

Good
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Such a great property! Location is amazing and we had a blast!!! Thank you!

We had a great experience, we were met at gate and let into the property. Everything is walking distance- the beach is beautiful and we had an amazing stay. The pool was so refreshing, Karen’s place is so open, clean and beautifully decorated. Thank you!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tanya W.

Casita Ruiz - samara

Perfect location, owner and property manager were awesome to work with. No issues and we hope to return.
Stayed 38 nights in Feb 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

mary jo p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very comfortable and very handy.

We just returned to chilly Indiana after 3 weeks at Samara, Costa Rica. Our stay was perfect in our three bedroom condo on a very busy corner. We adjusted to the noise of the intersection after a few nights. Except for the noise of the traffic, the location was perfect for it was in the middle of everything. Ridley was an exceptional property manager who took care of our needs. Small problem with pool chairs at the beginning, but his purchase of new chairs made the other pool guests, jealous. Thanks. No plans for next year yet, but we may be back.
Stayed 20 nights in Jan 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Darlene S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Location , location , location

Everything about the property was amazing. We couldn't have asked for anything more. The location is central to everything. Shopping, bars, restaurants and the most amazing beach. The condo is stocked with everything you could possibly need and then some. Contact with Karen was always prompt and we felt that she went above and beyond. Thank you ! We will be back .
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Madison H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best location in Samara!

We are so glad we found Casita Ruiz and will definitely be returning! This is hands down the best location you could find. Casita Ruiz was within a short walking distance of everything including the beach which was so important to us with having an infant to pack around. My parents had a different condo and were so jealous of our location. Karen, the owner, was wonderful to work with and it was so nice that a clean and nice pack n play and highchair were provided for our baby. It was extremely clean and beds were comfy. If you have the chance to book this property - DO IT. Highly recommend.
Stayed 8 nights in Dec 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
Thank you for the review Madison. We agree, Casita Ruiz is the best location in Samara. We cannot wait to have you and your family stay again!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Liz R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heart of Samara- nice space to stay.

We stayed 3 weeks here while we attended the Language school and it was a great stay. It is right in the heart of Samara, on the corner of an intersection... so it is very handy, but a little noisier in the evenings and early morning than other spaces in Samara. The apartment is large, it was great to have 2 bathrooms and everything was very comfortable and well equipped. We had such a good stay. The apartment is a little dark in the main room as there is only a small window, and there isn’t any outdoor deck or balcony for you to sit out on from your apartment, but there’s a huge yard and a simple and nicely kept pool area. Ridley (property manager) and Karen (owner) were both very responsive and made some great changes to make the stay even better. Air-conditioning in all rooms was a relief to put on when you arrive home! There are lots of shops and restaurants all around, but the kitchen is well stocked for cooking too. Samara is also a fabulous place to come!
Stayed 20 nights in Nov 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Peggy C.

Casita Ruiz Samara Awesome Condo

This condo this perfect for a couple or a family. It is well equipped. It is within walking distance to everything. You really don’t need a vehicle. Just rent one for the day if you want to explore. Loved staying right down town.. Playa Samara is the place to be. This condo is in the perfect location. Thanks so much . Karen and to Ridley for all your assistance while we were in Samara.
Stayed 26 nights in Feb 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
Peggy, Thank you, we loved having you both for the month. And we agree, Samara is the place to be, and the condo is in the perfect location. We would love to host you again, anytime. Best, Karen
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Marcy W.

Awesome! So close to everything!

Clean, all the amenities you need!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
Hello Marcy, Thank you for visiting Casita Ruiz. We loved having you and your family. And we agree, it is in THE PERFECT location. That's why we just had to buy it. Hope to have you back, anytime! ~Karen
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kent A.

Clean Comfortable Convenient

Perfectly situated in the center of Samara. The entire town is mere steps away from the Condo. The Condo is maintained with excellence and our contact there (Ridley) was very helpful - he even made reservations, upon our request, at an incredible local restaurant for us! The spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bath place was a clean and comfortable respite from the tropical heat, thanks to the ceiling fans and air conditioners in each room. On arrival the bowl of fruit was an extra special surprise. We arrived on New Year's day and the town was still quite festive throughout that first night with a lot of festive traffic - on foot and in vehicles. All the other nights were very quiet even though we were in the middle of this beautiful little beach town. Your stay here can be as laid-back or as eventful as you wish, with zip-lining, kayaking, surfing, etc. available at the various adventure shops in town. We enjoyed dominos by the pool one evening and we rented electric golf carts and made a couple of fun trips to Playa Carrillo and Playa Buenavista one day. There's even a small, resident iguana that watches over his domain and perches on the rooftop. We dubbed him 'Roberto'. He was fun to watch as he bobbed his head trying to attract his lady friends. We also were blessed with some of the resident horses in town one morning as they chose the grasses within the complex for their morning grazing. Local food is excellent and nightlife is available for karaoke or sports bars within a couple blocks' stroll. The beach is perfect for enjoying boogie boarding, surfing, horseback riding, or just relaxing with lots of little restaurants and beach bars available. Condo Ruiz is conveniently located, perfectly appointed and exceptionally comfortable for the perfect Costa Rican vacation!!! We will definitely return.
Verified

8/10 Good

Jenny J.

Great roomy condo, easy walk to beach and restaurants, grocery

We stayed here with 2 parents, 2 grandparents, 2 teens and the space was perfect with the 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. We used the kitchen for dinners and breakfasts and went out for a long lunch at Locanda on the beach every day where we could hang in the shade for hours while the kids swam or surfed. AC worked well. No ocean view but that's fine with us. It was loud with street noise (people, music, motorcycles revving around corner) on New Year's Eve as you'd expect but reasonably quiet the other nights. My only suggestion would be to get some of the newer LED lights to replace the current bulbs. It is rather dark and hard to read/play card games in kitchen/living area. Thank you for a great stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie O.

A perfect home!

Literally at the centre of town, steps from the beach, and in one of the most elegant houses around, we give this spacious home top marks. A fully outfitted kitchen, two showers with good water pressure, a washer and dryer, and even a swimming pool--there was nothing missing. Nice extra touches were the fruit and juice gracing our arrival, and the very helpful property manager, who was knowledgeable and friendly and went out of his way to assist us. We also enjoyed the iguanas on the roof, and the freely grazing horses that would occasionally stroll through the yard. Would definitely return.
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2018
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica D.

Clean and close to the beach!

This was our second time staying in this condo, and there is a reason! It is clean and air conditioned and has all the ameneties - full kitchen (rice cooker!), washer/dryer. Short walk to the Pali (store) and most important, close to the beach. Was nice having a gated area to park the rental car, so wasn’t worried about it. We didn’t use the pool - but the the resident iguana liked it!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 29 Mar, 2020
Thank you Jessica. It was a pleasure hosting you and your family, and we would love to have you back any time!

About the host

Hosted by Karen

Host profile image
We are a young family who currently live in Colorado full-time, but have ties to Costa Rica.

Why they chose this property

We traveled to many of Costa Rica's beaches to find the perfect one for us, and found Samara. We absolutely love it here, and we hope you will too!

What makes this property unique

In the center of town and close to the beach and restaurants.

Languages:

English, Spanish
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