Playa Samara

Playa Samara is located on the Pacific coast, about 150miles west of San Jose. Playa Samara is a long, light grey sand beach, part of a crescent shaped bay that stretches over 5km long. Tropical plant life and living coral encompass Samara's coastline. There is a large barrier reef running along the entrance of the bay where most of the waves break, so the water is calm and well suited for novice surfers and snorkelers offering lots of diving opportunities. Diving and snorkeling are especially great around a tiny islet of Isla Chora, located on the southern end of Playa Samara just a couple of miles offshore. Sea turtles, sea anemones and colorful tropical fish are commonly seen there. On the northern end of Samara Bay, there is Cangrejal dive site, which is ideal for snorkelers and beginners. The area offers a thriving undersea world, featuring an abundant variety of marine life, including corals, shells, crustaceans and a variety of fish (even close to shore). Divers can explore crystal clear waters teeming with colorful fish, manta rays, star fish, eels, sea turtles, sharks, whales, dolphins and the occasional small sea horse.