Carrillo Beach
Three kilometers south of Samara Beach is its sister beach, Carrillo. Similar to Samara, Carrillo is a laidback beach town, but on a much smaller scale than its larger neighbor. Here, visitors can indulge in some quality rest and relaxation as distractions are few and noise is minimal. This beach, which has stunning views and sunsets, is easily one of the best in Costa Rica. Instead of the development seen lining many of Costa Rica's most popular beaches, you'll see nothing but palm trees on Carrillo's empty shore.
Carrillo is a popular hot spot amongst foreigners and ticos, the latter of which literally invade the beach during the popular holidays. Like Sámara, Carrillo has been largely spared of the development afforded to many beaches on the Nicoya Peninsula. Although hotel, restaurant and nightlife options are limited in the small town of Carrillo, visitors can find more options by visiting Sámara.
Sport fishing is excellent off the coast, as is snorkeling and scuba diving in the stunning marine environments. Swimming conditions are also pleasant in the calm soothing bay, warmed year round by the blazing sun.
Transportation to Carrillo has been dramatically improved with the construction of the well-paved Road 150, which runs south from Nicoya to Sámara and Carrillo. Air travel is available via the small airstrip just outside of town. Planes usually fly to Nosara and then Carrillo from San José or Liberia. Buses run daily to and from Nicoya and San José.
Backpackers be wary, budget accommodations are sparse. Camping is great option for those looking to save a few bucks. Otherwise, hotels cater to visitors in the mid-range market.
Experiences in Carrillo Beach
Explore hand-picked Carrillo Beach tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Ocean Kayak and Snorkel Isla Chora
Catamaran Seafari and Snorkel Tour
Wildlife and Mangrove Kayak Tour
Secluded Beach Horseback Riding Tour
Turtle Night Nesting
Stand Up Paddle Bay to Bay
Beach and Mountain Horseback Riding
Where to stay in Carrillo Beach
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Carrillo Beach accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows
Nammbú Beachfront Bungalows offer breezy accommodations on the beach of Playa Carrillo. This beach is on the Pacific side of the Nicoya Peninsula, an area that has some of the prettiest beaches in the whole country.
Hotel Leyenda
Hotel Leyenda is located two kilometers from Carrillo Beach on Costa Rica's Pacific coast. Carrillo Beach lays 35 minutes away from Nicoya, the cultural and business capital of Guanacaste Province, where local craftsmanship presents some exquisite shopping opportunities. A short walk down the beach from the larger town of Samára, Carrillo Beach is separated from its neighbor by the narrow isthmus, Punto Indio. Though the two beaches are only four kilometers apart, Carrillo is considerably smaller and quieter then Samára. Famous for its superb coral reef and serene white sand beaches, Carrillo Beach is framed by the mountains of the Guanacaste province.
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Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list, it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
