Samara
🇨🇷 Costa Rica
The Pura Vida Sweet Spot
If Tamarindo is the loud, neon-lit party and Nosara is the high-end wellness retreat, Samara is the town that actually feels like home. It sits on the Nicoya Peninsula, tucked into a crescent moon bay where the Pacific Ocean behaves more like a swimming pool than a surf break. For nomads, it strikes a rare balance between "off the grid" tranquility and the reliable fiber optic speeds needed to sustain a 9-to-5.
The vibe here is refreshingly unpretentious. You'll spend your mornings dodging iguanas on your way to get a coffee and your afternoons watching the sunset with a mix of local Ticos, European families, and remote workers. It is a place where shoes are optional and the pace of life slows down to match the heat of the midday sun. Most nomads find that the typical "hustle" culture simply doesn't survive here; instead, you'll find yourself measuring productivity by whether you finished your tasks before the tide came in.
What Sets Samara Apart
Unlike many coastal hubs that have been swallowed by massive resorts, Samara has maintained its identity as a walkable beach village. You don't need a car to live here. Everything from the organic markets to the coworking desks is within a ten-minute stroll or a quick bike ride. It is also one of the safest spots in Costa Rica, where the community looks out for one another and the "expat bubble" feels more like an integrated neighborhood.
The emotional experience of being in Samara is one of immediate relief. There is no pressure to be "seen" or to wear the latest workout gear. Travelers often say that while they came for the 100 Mbps internet, they stayed for the Friday farmers markets and the spontaneous beach bonfires. It is a town that rewards those who want to integrate, not just those passing through.
The Daily Nomad Budget (USD)
- Budget Tier ($1,500 to $2,000 per month): Best for those staying in shared housing or modest studios, eating at local "sodas" where a hearty casado costs about $6 to $8, and using the local bus system.
- Mid-Range Tier ($2,500 to $3,500 per month): This covers a private one-bedroom apartment near the beach for $800 to $1,200, frequenting cafes like those serving fresh crepes and paninis for $12, and a dedicated coworking membership.
- Comfort Tier ($4,000+ per month): For those wanting a private villa with a pool, upscale dining at beachfront spots where meals exceed $25, and perhaps a quad or scooter rental for exploring the coastline.
The Neighborhood Breakdown
Playa Samara (The Hub)
- The Vibe: The heart of the action. This is where you'll find the most social interaction, the best WiFi, and the highest density of cafes.
- Pros: Totally walkable, right on the beach, and home to LoCoworking for networking.
- Cons: It can get a bit dusty and loud during the peak season from December to April.
Playa Carrillo (The Quiet Neighbor)
- The Vibe: Located just a few kilometers south, this beach is postcard-perfect with zero buildings on the sand, only palm trees.
- Pros: Deeply peaceful and favored by families or those who want a true escape.
- Cons: Very few amenities; you'll need to commute into Samara for groceries or coworking.
Expats generally recommend sticking to the central Samara area if you're solo, as the darker outskirts can feel a bit isolated at night. Whether you're grabbing a $15 day pass at a coworking space or taking a sunset surf lesson at Tico’s Surf School, the town makes it easy to find your tribe. It’s the kind of place where people actually look you in the eye and say "¡Buenas!" as you pass, reminding you that you’re finally living the lifestyle you probably moved to Costa Rica to find.
The Breakdown: Living the Pura Vida Life
Samara strikes a rare balance in Costa Rica. It isn't as cheap as the mountain villages in the Central Valley, but it's significantly more affordable than the high-end developments in Nosara or the tourist-heavy streets of Tamarindo. Most nomads find they can live a high-quality life here without the "resort tax" found elsewhere on the coast.
Expats generally recommend budgeting based on your lifestyle tier. If you're staying in a shared house and eating at local sodas, you can get by on $1,500 to $2,000 a month. Most remote workers opting for a private apartment and frequent cafe visits land in the $2,500 to $3,500 range. For those wanting a private villa with a pool and high-end dining, expect to spend $4,000 or more.
Housing and Accommodation
Rent will be your biggest expense. Central Samara is the hub for those who want to be steps from the surf and coworking spots, while the outskirts offer more tranquility for a lower price point. Many nomads use Coldwell Banker Samara to find move-in ready rentals that already have fiber optic internet installed.
- Furnished Studio/1BR: Expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 per month depending on how close you are to the sand.
- Private Villas: Larger homes or high-end builds often start at $2,500 and go up quickly during the peak dry season.
- Short-term stays: Places like Selina offer CoLive programs that bundle housing and coworking, which can be a cost-effective way to transition into the community.
Eating and Drinking
The food scene in Samara is a mix of traditional Tico flavors and health-conscious expat fare. If you stick to local "sodas," which are small, family-run restaurants, you'll eat well for very little. A "casado" (a plate with rice, beans, salad, and protein) usually costs around $5 to $8.
Mid-range cafes and beach spots serving crepes, organic juices, or paninis typically charge $10 to $15 for a meal. If you're heading out for a nice dinner with cocktails at an upscale beachfront restaurant, you'll likely see tabs of $20 to $30 per person. Groceries are manageable if you buy local produce at the farmer's markets, but imported goods at the supermarkets come with a premium.
Connectivity and Workspace
Reliable internet is no longer a luxury in Samara. Fiber optic is common in most central rentals. However, many nomads prefer the social atmosphere of a dedicated workspace. A day pass at a coworking space like Selina generally runs between $15 and $25. This often includes high-speed backups and community events, which many find worth the price for the networking alone.
Transportation and Logistics
One of the best things about Samara is its walkability. If you live in the town center, your transport costs are practically zero. For longer trips or exploring nearby beaches like Playa Carrillo, you have several affordable options:
- Bicycles and Scooters: Daily rentals cost about $5 to $10, and they're the preferred way to get around the flat coastal roads.
- Local Taxis: Short trips around town usually cost between $2 and $5. You can use the Taxi Samara app to coordinate rides.
- Public Buses: Reliable and very cheap, with fares to the Guanacaste Airport or nearby hubs like Nicoya costing between $1 and $10.
- SIM Cards: You can pick up a card from Kolbi or Claro for about $10 to $20, which covers a solid data plan for a month.
Healthcare and Small Essentials
Basic healthcare is accessible and affordable. Local pharmacies are well-stocked for daily needs, and clinics in town handle minor issues with ease. For anything major, you'll need to head to the hospitals in Nicoya or Tamarindo. Most nomads find that out-of-pocket costs for a standard clinic visit are much lower than in the US or Europe, but having travel insurance is still the standard move for the expat community here.
For Digital Nomads: Central Playa Samara
If you're coming to Samara to work, you want to be in the heart of the action. Central Playa Samara is the town's primary hub and the smartest choice for anyone relying on a solid internet connection. Most nomads congregate here because it's entirely walkable; you can hop from a morning surf session to a video call without needing a car or even a bike.
The neighborhood is anchored by Selina, which serves as the unofficial headquarters for the remote work community. It's more than just a place to sleep; the coworking space offers day passes for $15 to $25 and hosts regular community events that make networking nearly effortless. You'll find plenty of other work friendly spots nearby, like the local cafes where you can grab a crepe and a coffee for about $10 while using their fiber optic WiFi.
Living here means being steps away from supermarkets, pharmacies, and the local bus stop. While it gets a bit livelier during the peak season from December to April, the convenience of having everything at your fingertips usually outweighs the extra foot traffic. Expats and long term travelers often use Coldwell Banker Samara to scout for furnished studios in this area, which typically run between $600 and $1,200 per month depending on how close you are to the sand.
For Expats and Long-Term Residents: The North and South Ends
Expats who have traded their home countries for the Nicoya Peninsula often gravitate toward the quieter fringes of the main bay. These areas offer a more residential feel while staying within a five minute bike ride of the town center. It's the best of both worlds: you get the community vibe of the central hub without the noise of the beachfront bars.
The southern end of the beach, near the Tico’s Surf School area, is particularly popular for those staying several months. It feels less like a tourist zone and more like a neighborhood. You'll find more private villas and long term apartment rentals here. Practicality is a big draw for this group; they appreciate the proximity to the local clinics and the ease of getting to the Banco Nacional or organic markets.
- Monthly Budget: Expect to spend $2,500 to $3,500 for a comfortable mid range lifestyle including a private rental and frequent cafe meals.
- Safety: This area is very secure, though residents recommend avoiding unlit backroads or isolated beach stretches after dark.
- Transport: Most expats rent a scooter or bike for $5 to $10 a day to zip between their house and the shops.
For Families and Peace Seekers: Playa Carrillo
Just a short 10 minute drive south of Samara lies Playa Carrillo. Travelers often describe it as the more sophisticated, quieter sibling to Samara. There is almost no commercial development on the beachfront itself, which is lined with palm trees instead of buildings. This makes it the top pick for families who want a massive, calm playground for their kids or solo travelers looking for total serenity.
The infrastructure is more limited here, so you'll likely want a rental car or at least the Taxi Samara app on your phone for quick trips into town. While there are fewer coworking specific spots, many of the high end villas tucked into the hills offer excellent private internet. It's a "bring what you need" kind of neighborhood, but the trade off is one of the most pristine and family friendly beaches in Costa Rica.
For Solo Travelers: The Beachfront Strip
If you're traveling solo and want to meet people immediately, stay as close to the shoreline as possible. The beachfront is dotted with hostels and small boutique hotels that cater to the social crowd. It's the best place to find a "soda" (a small local eatery) where you can grab a $8 casado and strike up a conversation with someone at the next table.
Solo travelers favor this area because it eliminates the need for nighttime navigation of darker outskirts. Everything you need is right there. You can spend your mornings at a yoga class and your afternoons learning to surf, all within a three block radius. For social butterflies, the mellow bars with live music provide a safe and easy way to plug into the local scene without the intense "party town" pressure found in places like Tamarindo.
Connectivity and Speed
You won't have to worry about dropping off a Zoom call in Samara. The town has made massive leaps in infrastructure recently, with fiber optic internet now standard in most central rentals and businesses. Most nomads report stable speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 200 Mbps, which is more than enough for heavy video editing or managing remote teams.
Power outages do happen occasionally, especially during the transition into the rainy season in May or during heavy October storms. Most seasoned remote workers keep a backup battery or a charged hotspot handy just in case. If your rental doesn't have fiber yet, ask the landlord specifically about the provider; Kolbi and Liberty are the most reliable for high speed residential setups.
Top Coworking Spots
While Samara is small, it has high quality dedicated spaces where you can escape the humidity and get into deep work mode. The community is tight knit, so these spots often double as your primary social hub.
- LoCoworking Samara: This is a central hub for the nomad community. Located near the heart of town, it features a dedicated air conditioned coworking room, private phone booths, and reliable backup power. A day pass usually runs around $20, making it a reliable choice for those needing a professional environment.
- Locanda: While technically a beachfront hotel and restaurant, it's a favorite for those who prefer "work from beach" vibes. They have decent WiFi and plenty of tables where you can work for the price of a few coffees or a smoothie.
The Cafe Office Scene
If you prefer a more relaxed environment with the smell of fresh Guanacaste coffee, Samara has several laptop friendly cafes. The culture here is generally welcoming to remote workers as long as you aren't camping out for four hours on a single espresso during the lunch rush.
- Roots Bakery: A go to for early morning workers. They have great pastries, reliable WiFi, and a shaded outdoor seating area that stays relatively cool.
- Bohemian Cafe: Known for its organic menu and chill atmosphere, it's a great spot for answering emails while grabbing a healthy lunch.
- Microbar: Later in the afternoon, this spot becomes a popular place to finish up the workday with a craft beer and a laptop before the sunset crowds arrive.
Mobile Data and SIM Cards
Don't rely solely on your home country's roaming plan; it'll be slow and expensive. Pick up a local SIM card as soon as you land at Liberia (LIR) airport or at one of the small electronics shops in the center of Samara. Kolbi generally has the best coverage in the more rural areas around the Nicoya Peninsula, while Claro offers competitive data packages.
Expect to pay around $10 to $20 for a prepaid SIM with 10GB to 20GB of data. 5G is starting to roll out in larger hubs, but in Samara, you'll mostly be working with a very consistent 4G LTE signal. It's plenty fast for using your phone as a mobile hotspot if the cafe WiFi gets sluggish.
Practical Work Tips
The heat is a real factor here. If you plan on working from a patio, make sure it has high quality ceiling fans. Most nomads find they are most productive in the early mornings, taking a long "surf break" in the middle of the day when the sun is at its peak, and finishing up in the late afternoon.
Digital nomad meetups happen frequently at local coworking spots or are organized through the local Samara Clan Facebook group. It's the best way to find out which new cafes have just installed fiber or which neighborhoods are currently experiencing maintenance outages.
Safety in Samara
Samara is widely considered one of the safest beach towns in Costa Rica. It lacks the aggressive party scene found in larger hubs, which keeps the vibe mellow and the crime rates low. Most nomads and expats report feeling perfectly comfortable walking through the central Playa Samara area both day and night. The community is tight knit; locals and long term residents tend to look out for one another, creating a sense of security that's hard to find in more transient surf towns.
That said, petty theft is the most common issue you'll encounter. It's almost always a crime of opportunity. If you leave your smartphone or a bag unattended on the sand while you go for a swim, there's a good chance it won't be there when you get back. Most rentals and coworking spaces like Selina have solid security, but you should always lock your doors and windows when leaving your accommodation, even if you're just heading out for a quick coffee.
Personal safety after dark requires a bit of common sense. While the main drag is well lit and active, the outskirts and unpaved roads leading away from the beach can be pitch black. Most travelers recommend avoiding isolated stretches of beach after sunset. If you're staying a bit further out, use local apps like Taxi Samara or grab a ride for $2 to $5 rather than walking home on unlit paths. For any immediate emergencies, the 911 system is the standard, and the tourist police in the area are generally responsive and helpful.
Healthcare and Medical Services
For a small town, Samara is well equipped to handle day to day health needs. You'll find several local clinics and pharmacies (farmacias) right in the center of town. These pharmacies are excellent for minor ailments, as the pharmacists can often provide consultations and dispense medications that would require a prescription in the US or Europe.
If you need more specialized care or a diagnostic test, you'll likely need to head out of town. Here is how the healthcare landscape breaks down for residents:
- Local Clinics: Ideal for stitches, infections, or basic flu symptoms. These are private and usually require payment upfront, though they provide receipts for insurance reimbursement.
- Nicoya: Located about 45 minutes away, this is the nearest town with a major public hospital (Hospital La Anexión) for emergencies.
- Tamarindo/Liberia: For high end private care and specialists, many expats drive 2 hours to Liberia. This is also where you'll find Hospital Metropolitano and CIMA, which offer world class facilities.
Most nomads find it's worth having a private international insurance plan or a travel policy like SafetyWing or World Nomads. While local costs for a doctor's visit are relatively affordable, usually ranging from $60 to $100, emergency medical evacuations or major surgeries can get expensive quickly. Keep a digital copy of your blood type and any allergies on your phone, as this is a standard request at local clinics.
Water and Environmental Health
The tap water in Samara is generally safe to drink, which isn't the case in every coastal town in Costa Rica. However, many expats still prefer to use a filtered pitcher or buy large five gallon jugs (garrafones) for $3 to $5 to avoid the heavy mineral content found in the local supply. Staying hydrated is your biggest health priority here; the heat in the Nicoya Peninsula regularly hits 90°F, and newcomers often underestimate how much water they need while working or surfing.
Mosquito borne illnesses like Dengue occur occasionally during the rainy season from May to November. Most locals recommend using repellent during "bug hour" at dusk and ensuring your rental has intact window screens. It's not a reason to panic, but it's a part of tropical life you'll want to stay mindful of.
The Walkability Factor
One of the biggest draws for nomads in Samara is how little you actually need a car. The town center is incredibly compact. If you're staying near the main beach or the soccer field, you can reach almost every coworking space, organic market, and surf school on foot. Most expats find that their daily routine involves a barefoot stroll to the beach for a morning surf followed by a five minute walk to a cafe for work.
The main road through town is paved, but many of the side streets are dirt and gravel. While it's easy to walk during the day, keep in mind that street lighting is sparse once you leave the central hub. If your rental is on the outskirts, you'll want a headlamp or a reliable ride for after dark.
Bicycles and Scooters
For exploring further out or getting to the quieter shores of Playa Carrillo, a bicycle is the local gold standard. You can rent a beach cruiser for about $5 to $10 per day, though many long term residents just buy a used one or negotiate a monthly rate with local shops. It's a flat, scenic 15 to 20 minute ride to Carrillo, making it a perfect afternoon escape.
Scooters and motorbikes are also popular for those who want a bit more range without the sweat. Expect to pay around $25 to $40 per day for a scooter rental. They’re great for reaching the hilltop yoga retreats or navigating the backroads during the dry season, but be cautious on the gravel patches that can be slippery.
Local Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Don't bother looking for Uber or Lyft here; they aren't active in Samara. Instead, the town relies on a fleet of official red taxis and several private transport services. For quick hops around town, a taxi usually costs between $2 and $5. If you need a ride, most travelers use the Taxi Samara app or simply save a few drivers' numbers on WhatsApp, which is the preferred way to communicate here.
If you're headed to the airport or a neighboring town like Nosara, you'll want to book a private or shared shuttle. Prices for these services include:
- Shared Shuttle to Liberia (LIR): $50 to $60 per person.
- Private Transfer to Liberia: $100 to $130 for the vehicle.
- Public Bus to Nicoya: Around $2 for a slow but authentic local experience.
Public Buses
The public bus system is affordable and reliable if you aren't in a rush. There are daily departures to Nicoya, which serves as the regional transit hub. From there, you can catch connecting buses to San Jose or other parts of the peninsula. A bus ticket to the Guanacaste Airport typically runs between $5 and $10, though it takes about 2 to 3 hours depending on the number of stops. It’s a great way to save money if you’re traveling light, but most nomads with heavy tech gear opt for the shuttles.
Car Rentals
You don't need a car for daily life in Samara, but having one for a weekend is a game changer for visiting the hidden waterfalls or remote beaches like Playa Barrigona. There are a few local rental agencies in town, and prices vary wildly by season. During the peak months of December through April, expect to pay $70 to $100 per day including the mandatory insurance. If you're visiting during the rainy season, a 4x4 is highly recommended as the secondary roads can turn into muddy tracks quickly.
The Language Balance
In Samara, you'll find a linguistic sweet spot that's rare in many of Costa Rica's coastal towns. While Spanish is the soul of the community, English is spoken fluently across the main tourist and nomad hubs. Whether you're ordering a flat white at a beachfront cafe, booking a session at Tico's Surf School, or grabbing a desk at LoCoworking, you won't need to struggle with a language barrier for your daily essentials.
The expat community here is tight knit and very active. You'll hear a mix of English, French, and German while walking the main drag of Playa Samara. Because so many remote workers have settled here, most business owners in the town center are used to conducting transactions in English. However, once you head out toward the quieter Playa Carrillo or visit the local sodas for a $8 casado, having some Spanish in your back pocket goes a long way.
Mastering the "Pura Vida" Mindset
Communication in Samara isn't just about the words you use; it's about the pace. The local culture operates on a relaxed timeline. If a repair person or a landlord says they'll be there in the morning, it might mean noon. Embracing this is part of the experience. You'll hear the phrase "Pura Vida" dozens of times a day. It serves as a hello, a goodbye, a way to say "no worries," and a general philosophy of life.
Aside from the classic "Pura Vida," here are a few local terms nomads use daily:
- ¡Buenas!: A shortened, friendly version of "good morning/afternoon" used when entering a shop or passing someone on a trail.
- ¿Cuánto cuesta?: How much does it cost? Useful at the local farmers markets.
- Tico/Tica: What Costa Ricans call themselves.
- Soda: A small, locally owned restaurant serving traditional, affordable food.
Digital Tools and Connectivity
Even with high English proficiency in town, you'll want to be prepared for more complex situations like visiting a clinic or navigating a long term rental agreement. Most nomads recommend downloading Google Translate for offline use. It's particularly handy for translating menus at smaller local spots or reading signs in more rural areas of the Nicoya Peninsula.
For staying connected, don't rely on your home roaming plan. Expats suggest picking up a local SIM card from providers like Kolbi or Claro. You can find these at the airport or in small shops in town for about $10 to $20. These plans usually offer 4G or 5G data, which is vital if you're using WhatsApp, the primary way everyone from taxi drivers to landlords communicates here. If you need to call local taxi services via WhatsApp or apps like Taxi CR, a local number makes the process much smoother.
Social Integration
If you're looking to improve your Spanish while living here, Samara is a great place to do it. The locals are generally patient and appreciate the effort. Many nomads join local Facebook groups or attend community yoga sessions to meet bilingual locals and fellow travelers. It's a welcoming environment where a simple "hola" can easily turn into a sunset drink invitation. If you're staying for a few months, consider a few informal lessons; it changes the way you experience the town and helps you move beyond the "tourist" bubble.
The Seasonal Rhythm
Living on the Nicoya Peninsula means your schedule will largely be dictated by the sun and the clouds. Samara enjoys a tropical climate where temperatures consistently hover between 75 and 90°F. While it's warm year-round, the humidity and rainfall levels shift significantly between the two primary seasons. Most expats find that the transition periods are actually the most pleasant times to be in town.
Dry Season: December to April
This is the peak of the tourist calendar. You can expect endless blue skies, zero rain, and a steady offshore breeze that makes the heat manageable. It's the best time for photography and outdoor adventures, but it comes with a trade-off. Prices for short-term rentals often spike, and the town feels significantly more crowded.
- January to March: These are the driest months. Highs usually hit 85°F or more. Dust can become an issue on the unpaved backroads, so many nomads prefer staying closer to the beachfront during this window.
- April: This is often the hottest month of the year. The landscape can look a bit parched, but the ocean water is incredibly clear and calm.
Green Season: May to November
Local residents often prefer the "Green Season" for its lush scenery and cooler afternoons. The rain typically arrives in predictable afternoon bursts, leaving the mornings open for surfing or working from a cafe. The town settles into a much quieter, more authentic pace.
- May to August: You'll see occasional showers, usually starting around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM. The jungle turns a deep, vivid green almost overnight. It's a great time to find deals on monthly housing.
- September and October: These are the rainiest months. Some local businesses take their annual vacations and close up shop during this time. If you're a digital nomad who relies on outdoor cafe seating, you might find your options more limited during these weeks.
- November: The rain begins to taper off. Travelers often say this is the "sweet spot" because the landscape is still incredibly green but the sunny days are returning.
The Best Time to Visit
If you're looking for the perfect balance of weather and social activity, aim for December or May. These shoulder months offer the best of both worlds. December brings the excitement of the holiday season and the arrival of the dry weather, while May offers lower prices and a more relaxed expat community before the heavy rains start.
For those on a budget, the months of June through August are highly recommended. You'll still get plenty of sunshine during the day, but you won't be paying the "high season" premium for your studio or villa. Just make sure your coworking space or rental has a covered patio so you can enjoy the sound of the afternoon rain while you finish up your tasks for the day.
What to Pack
Since the temperature rarely drops below 70°F even at night, heavy clothing is unnecessary. Focus on breathable fabrics like linen or moisture-wicking synthetics. If you're visiting during the Green Season, a lightweight, high-quality rain shell is a must. Most nomads also recommend bringing a dry bag for your laptop and electronics, especially if you plan on biking to a cafe during the months when a sudden downpour is likely.
Connectivity and Tech Setup
Staying connected in Samara is surprisingly easy for such a laid-back village. Fiber optic internet has become the standard for most rentals and cafes, making it reliable for video calls even during the afternoon tropical downpours. Most nomads grab a local SIM card immediately to avoid roaming fees. Kolbi or Claro are the top choices; you can pick one up at the airport or in town for about $10 to $20. A 20GB data plan usually covers you for a month of backup hotspotting.
When you need a dedicated workspace, LoCoworking Samara is a great option for those seeking a professional environment. If you prefer a more casual "laptop and latte" vibe, several beachside cafes allow you to work with a view of the Pacific. Just remember that the salt air and heat can be tough on hardware, so keep your gear shaded and away from the spray.
Money and Banking
While Costa Rica is increasingly digital, Samara still runs on a mix of cash and card. You'll find ATMs from Banco Nacional and other local banks throughout the main strip. To save on conversion fees, expats recommend using Wise or Revolut for daily transactions. Most restaurants and supermarkets accept major credit cards, but you'll want Colones for smaller purchases at local sodas or for tipping.
Expect to pay a 10% service charge and 13% sales tax on restaurant bills. The service charge is the tip, though leaving a little extra for exceptional service is always appreciated. For groceries, sticking to local produce at the farmer's markets will keep your budget in check, as imported goods at the supermarkets come with a premium price tag.
Getting Around Town
The core of Samara is highly walkable. You can get from the main street to the sand in minutes. If you're staying a bit further out or want to explore Playa Carrillo, renting a bike or a scooter is the way to go. Rentals typically cost $5 to $10 per day. It's a great way to feel the breeze and avoid the humidity of a long walk.
For longer trips, like getting to Guanacaste Airport (LIR), shared shuttles are the most popular choice, costing between $50 and $100. Within town, local taxis are available for short hops, usually charging $2 to $5. Uber is hit or miss here, so don't rely on it for time-sensitive trips like an airport run. If you're feeling adventurous, the public bus to Nicoya or Liberia is a bargain at under $10.
Health and Safety
Samara is one of the safer beach towns in the country. Petty theft is the main concern, so don't leave your phone or bag unattended on the beach while you're surfing. Expats generally feel comfortable walking the main areas at night, but it's smart to avoid unlit backroads or isolated stretches of beach after dark. For emergencies, the national number is 911.
There are several pharmacies and local clinics in town that can handle minor ailments or prescriptions. For anything serious, you'll likely need to head to the hospitals in Nicoya or Tamarindo, which are about an hour or two away. Most nomads carry private travel insurance that covers medical evacuations just in case.
The Local Rhythm
The "Pura Vida" lifestyle isn't just a marketing slogan; it's the actual pace of life here. Things move slower, and stressing over a five minute delay won't get you far. Embrace the relaxed schedule. Most social life revolves around the beach at sunset or morning yoga sessions. To find long-term housing, skip the big booking sites and check Coldwell Banker Samara or local Facebook groups, where you can often find furnished 1BR apartments for $600 to $1,200 a month depending on how close you are to the water.
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