Nosara and Sámara are two of the most loved beach towns on the Nicoya Peninsula — Sámara for its calm, family-friendly bay, Nosara for surf, yoga and wild beaches. Many of the roads that connect them, and lead to hotels and rentals, are gravel or dirt, which is why most visitors choose a 4x4.
Pick up your 4x4 in Nosara or Sámara
Nosara, Sámara and Nosara Airport (NOB) are among our pick-up and delivery points. You can also start at Liberia (LIR) or San José (SJO) airport and drive to the peninsula. Send us your dates and we will request a written quote that shows the full price before you confirm.
Do you need a 4x4 for Nosara and Sámara?
For Nosara, yes: the roads in and around town are largely unpaved, dusty in the dry season and muddy in the rainy season. Sámara is reached by paved road, but if you plan to explore nearby beaches or drive between Sámara and Nosara along the coast, a 4x4 with good clearance is the safer choice. Rental contracts do not allow river crossings — if a road is flooded, turn around and take the inland route.
Getting there
- From Liberia (LIR): the closest international airport; Sámara is roughly 2 hours away and Nosara a bit longer, depending on the route and road conditions.
- From San José (SJO): usually 4 to 5 hours or more, crossing the Tempisque bridge towards Nicoya.
Ask locally about the state of the coastal road before you set off, especially after heavy rain.
Tips for the Nicoya beach roads
- Drive slowly on gravel: potholes and loose stones can appear suddenly.
- Driving on beaches is prohibited and is not covered by insurance.
- Avoid driving after dark on unlit dirt roads.
- Keep water and a charged phone in the car; coverage can be patchy between towns.