Costa Rica Days 20–22: Sámara Slowdown, Ocean Heat, and a Different Rhythm
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After the intensity of Monteverde, arriving in Sámara felt like exhaling.
The Pacific coast was immediately different — hotter, brighter, slower. Less moss and mist, more salt air and open sky. This was the part of the trip designed to unwind, and Sámara delivered exactly that.
Day 20: Arrival on the Pacific Coast
The drive to Sámara marked a clear shift in pace and climate. The heat hit first — noticeably warmer than the Caribbean side — and with it a more relaxed, beach-centered rhythm.
Hotel Giada turned out to be one of the best places we stayed on the entire trip. The room was beautifully appointed, comfortable, and thoughtfully laid out. and opened out to the pool area. Its location couldn’t have been better: right in town and only a five-minute walk from the beach.
The setting sealed it. A crystal-blue pool, a jacuzzi, warm water, and generous loungers tucked under umbrellas made it feel like a place designed for lingering rather than rushing. That afternoon, we headed straight to the ocean. The water was warm, the swells gentle, and the atmosphere easy. We swam alongside surfers as the sun began to drop, taking photos as the light softened and the colors deepened. One of those moments that’s almost impossible to describe properly — calm, golden, and unforced.
Day 20 Evening: Margaritas and Conversations
Later, we wandered into town and stopped at Coco’s, a local Mexican spot, just in time for happy hour. I had four Cuba Libres — enough to blur the edges of the evening — and a mahi-mahi fillet that hit the spot.
We ended up calling Tom, the owner and brewmaster of 2 Gringos Brewing, and chatted with him about his brewing style and approach. The kind of relaxed, spontaneous conversation that seems to happen more easily in places like this.
Day 21: Kayak and Snorkel to Isla Chora
The next morning began with our kayak and snorkeling tour to Isla Chora. The paddle itself was enjoyable, helped by kayaks fitted with backrests — a small detail that made a big difference in comfort.
Isla Chora served as the snorkeling base, and while the fish life wasn’t spectacular, we still saw a handful of species and some beautiful angelfish. Above us, frigate birds cruised effortlessly, adding drama to an otherwise calm morning. On the beach, our guides served pineapple, cold water, and fruit juice — a familiar and welcome Costa Rican ritual.
The afternoon was deliberately slow: pool time, a walk along the beach, and simply being present.
Dogs, Music, and Small Moments
Later, I met a guy from Colorado sitting on a log, casually strumming a guitar. A dog wandered over, clearly looking for attention. Before long, he was barking playfully, demanding a game. I spent half an hour throwing sticks and laughing at his enthusiasm.
One thing that stood out in Sámara — and Costa Rica in general — is how friendly and sociable the dogs are. Even the street dogs seem relaxed, curious, and approachable.
We also passed a marimba player filling the air with rhythm, and a woman riding a beautiful white horse, which Colleen couldn’t resist petting.
Dinner that night was at the hotel’s Italian restaurant. Service was painfully slow, but the food made up for it. Colleen had the lasagna, and I ordered Grandma’s meatloaf — both excellent.
With a 6 a.m. pickup scheduled, it was an early night.
Day 22: Mangroves and a Gentle Goodbye
Our final full day in Sámara began early with a bumpy ride to the Ora River for a mangrove kayak tour.
The paddle was pleasant but subdued. A few herons, a drifting crocodile, and little else. Peaceful, but not particularly memorable.
We were back at the hotel by 10 a.m., just in time to cool off in the pool. Having missed breakfast, we headed to Limey’s for a snack and a drink, then wandered through town before retreating to the room. Fan on. Air-conditioning humming. Resting up for one last swim and beach walk.
A Canopy Moment Worth Stopping For
Just when it felt like Sámara had shown us everything it had, we looked up.
A pair of Scarlet Macaws settled in the canopy above us — preening, shifting, entirely unbothered by our presence. A simple moment, unplanned, and exactly the kind of ending Sámara deserved.
Final Thoughts on Sámara
Sámara wasn’t about ticking boxes or chasing highlights. It was about slowing down, letting the heat dictate the pace, and appreciating the smaller, quieter moments — warm water, friendly dogs, and casual conversations.
After the effort of the interior and cloud forest, this stretch of the Pacific coast felt like balance restored.
If you’re planning a trip, I keep the booking tools I actually use at https://www.traveladventurescurated.com/about/
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