Samara, Tamarindo, San Juanillo & Blue Zone Life

For this trip, I flew into San José (SJO) and stayed overnight before heading to the Nicoya Peninsula the next morning. The drive to the coast is about 4.5–5 hours, depending on where you're headed first. It’s a long but scenic drive, and honestly, it was worth it to get to a part of Costa Rica that still feels local and laid-back.

I spent about a week exploring the western side of the peninsula—Samara, Carrillo, Nicoya town, Tamarindo, and San Juanillo—and the mix of beach, wellness, and simplicity really stuck with me. Here's everything I did and what I'd recommend.

Samara – Easygoing Beach Days

Samara was my first stop, and it’s the kind of place that eases you into vacation mode fast. The beach is calm and great for swimming, and the town is small enough to walk everywhere. There’s a mix of local life, expats, and travelers, but it hasn’t lost its charm.

I spent mornings walking the beach with a coffee, and afternoons either reading in the shade or taking a yoga class. A few places I really liked:

Bohemia Café – Great for breakfast or coffee, with a quiet garden vibe.
Luv Burger – Surprisingly filling vegan food that hits the spot after beach time.
Samara Yoga – Open-air classes with a chill but grounded energy.

Carrillo Beach – A Hidden Gem

A short 10-minute drive south of Samara is Carrillo Beach, which might have been my favorite spot of the whole trip. It’s quiet, palm-lined, and completely undeveloped. No beachfront bars, no crowds—just nature.

I brought snacks and water, found a shady spot under the palms, and stayed for hours. It’s perfect for swimming and disconnecting.

Nicoya Town – A Quick Stop with Local Flavor

I was curious about the whole Blue Zone thing, so I made a short detour to Nicoya town. It’s not touristy, but if you want to get a glimpse of daily Costa Rican life away from the coast, this is a good place.

I walked around the central plaza, grabbed lunch at a local soda (basic but delicious), and picked up fresh fruit from the market. It’s simple living here—no frills, but a strong sense of community. You can feel how different the pace is from city life.

Tamarindo – Surf, Food & A Bit More Energy

After a few slow days, Tamarindo brought more of a buzz. It’s definitely more developed and tourist-friendly, but still worth a visit—especially if you're into surfing or just want more dining options.

I took a surf lesson here (and managed to stand up a few times), walked the beach, and ate really well.

Favorites:

Green Papaya Taco Bar – Fresh, affordable, casual.
Nordico Coffee House – For iced lattes and remote work time.
Pico Bistro – More of a dinner spot, but really good cocktails and service.

Sunsets in Tamarindo are a whole thing—everyone heads to the beach around 5:30. Bring a towel and just relax.

San Juanillo – Quiet & Clear Water

San Juanillo is smaller and more remote, but absolutely worth the drive. The beach is split by a rocky point into two beautiful coves, and the water is crystal clear. I brought my snorkel gear, and while I didn’t see tons of fish, the water itself was so calm and inviting.

There aren’t many services, so bring water, sunscreen, and snacks. There are a few local spots to grab a meal on the drive back out, but I’d plan ahead if you're staying a while.

Renting a Car – 100% Worth It

I rented a 4x4 and was really glad I did. The roads aren’t always paved—especially once you get closer to beaches like San Juanillo or Carrillo—and having my own car meant I could stop when I wanted and avoid relying on slow or limited public transport. If you're doing more than one or two towns, a rental car gives you the freedom to explore on your own terms.

A few quick tips:

Gas stations are spread out—top off your tank often.
Download offline maps before leaving the city.
If you’re traveling in the rainy season, a 4x4 is almost essential.

Nicoya, Costa Rica