All-Inclusive Beachside Retreat Surrounded by Rainforest

Far from the commotion of Santa Cruz and the noisy thoroughfares of Nicoya, visitors emerge from a peaceful, butterfly-filled tropical rainforest as they stroll toward the breaking waves of the quiet, southernmost stretch of Samara Beach. Families explore the bay waters right off these Costa Rican shores, snorkeling to glimpse the marine life lurking in coral reefs below or boating in hopes of having friendly dolphins swim up beside them. Such outdoor adventures—both active and leisurely—are just beyond the doorsteps of the Hotel Villas Playa Samara. The resort's 59 villas meander through a lush jungle, resembling a Spanish-style village with a collection of white stucco walls, red tile roofs, and stray bulls in search of their favorite red capes.

As evening approaches, tropical décor fills Deluxe rooms, where travelers gather on their private garden- or ocean-view patios to watch the sunset. By day, turquoise hues beckon travelers to the pool, where children splash as parents chatter and sip cocktails at the adjoining wet bar, Las Palmas. Duos can head to the beach—within walking distance—to enjoy soothing sea breezes during a one-hour massage before dinner and drinks on the deck of Arrecife Restaurante. Also included in the package, guests can order à la carte from the restaurant’s menu or nosh buffet-style three times a day, all while enjoying an ever-flowing supply of drinks including piña coladas, daquiris, and cervezas.

Samara Beach, Costa Rica: Coral Reefs and Rainforest Adventure

Along the stretch of crescent-shaped sand on Samara Beach, Hotel Villas Playa Samara lodgers take advantage of an endless array of active pursuits, including unlimited access to snorkeling equipment, kayaks, and bikes. Adventure tours, easy to book through the hotel, send visitors on an included one-hour horseback journey, winding through the rugged terrain hugging Carrillo Beach to unveil breathtaking views of a waterfall. Guests can also follow the resort’s guides through the lush rainforest canopies via ziplines, which soar across 12 platforms at adrenaline-pumping heights.

A float down the rivers of Samara jungles may reveal local wildlife, including howler monkeys and iguanas, while anglers can take to the Pacific on sportfishing charters, which captains steer to big-game fishing spots. Aboard, even novices stand a fair chance of hooking tuna and mahi-mahi or wrestling with a trophy-size sailfish in the boat's fighting chair.