Samara, Playa Carrillo
The luxurious beach boulevard of Playa Carrillo
Eight km south of Samara you are greeted by a palm-lined boulevard which parallels
one of Costa Rica's most beautiful beaches. The wide, crescent bay of Playa
Carrillo looks almost Caribbean, with turquoise waters, white coral
sand and row upon row of coconut palms.
Rocky headlands at both ends and an offshore reef protect the bay enabling you to swim and
snorkel in calm, crystalline waters.
Overlooking the horseshoe bay of Carrillo
Carrillo is small and far less developed than Samara. There are no buildings, hotels or restaurants at the beach making it largely uncrowded for most of the year. Only at weekends or during holidays Costa Rican families enjoy their picnics under the palms.
At the far end of the beach, before the road goes uphill, you pass over a small bridge over a river where a sign warns to take care of crocodiles. Some friendlier species of wildlife can be seen at a small private zoo with bromelia gardens. Shortly after the crocodiles bridge a small dirt goes left uphill to La Selva Zoo and Restaurant with coatis, monkeys, porcupines, vampire bats, and other animals which you will seldom see in the wild. Best times to visit are in the morning from 7 - 8 a.m. or evening from 5 - 8 p.m.
Fishing boats in Puerto Carrillo
Puerto Carrillo is only a tiny fishermen village whose protected cove offers safe anchoring for the sport fishing fleet of Samara and visiting sail boats.
There aren't many hotels in Carrillo, most visitors here are sport anglers. However, not only fishing buffs will like Carrillo - it will please to all travelers who are looking for a quiet place with scenic environment.
Driving south from Samara:
Road Map: Samara to Coyote
Road Map: Coyote to Santa Teresa / Mal Pais