Costa Rica · 2026 itinerary
Sámara 3-Day Itinerary
A day-by-day plan for Sámara: the best attractions in order, where to eat, how to get around — with free hotel briefings for your stay.
Arrive & Explore the Highlights
A peaceful beach with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Free entry💡 Take a short walk north of Sámara Beach to find this hidden gem.
Hotels near Playa Guiones →A protected area that's home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and sea turtles.
🕐 Open daily from 8am to 4pm
Free entry💡 Take a guided tour to spot monkeys and birds in their natural habitat.
Hotels near Sámara Wildlife Refuge →Jardín Marino · ££
Pizza Paraíso · ££
Deeper Into Sámara
A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
🕐 Every Saturday from 8am to 1pm
💡 Try some local fruits and snacks, and practice your Spanish with the vendors.
A picturesque beach with calm waters and powdery sand, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
💡 Watch the sunset over the ocean for a truly unforgettable experience.
Bar & Restaurante Pablito's
El Cafecito
Final Favourites & Departure
Take a lesson or rent a board to try your hand at surfing on Sámara's gentle waves.
💡 Book a lesson with a local instructor to learn the best techniques and safety tips.
Pizzeria El Dorado
Bar / Restaurante Meli
Getting Around Sámara
Check the schedule in advance to plan your trip
Buy tickets online or at the airport to secure a seat
Book in advance for a flat rate
Book in advance to ensure availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 3 days enough for Sámara?
Three days covers the main highlights well. You can see the key attractions like Playa Guiones and get a genuine feel for the city. For a more leisurely pace or to explore neighbourhoods in depth, a 5-day trip is better.
What is the best time to visit Sámara?
See our full best time to visit Sámara guide — it covers weather month by month, peak vs. shoulder seasons and how to avoid the crowds.
Where should I stay for this itinerary?
A central location saves transit time between sites. Top options include Hotel Castillo Montereina, Villas Playa Buena Vista, Samara Palm Lodge. See the full ranked list with free briefings for each.