Heather

Amazing stay! The place is right on the beach and the host/staff were super helpful

Thank you Heather for allowing us stay at your place. Marta was such a helpful host. The location is beatiful. Sitting on the beach for breakfadt was perfect. An easy walk along the beach into the main resort, but far enough away to have peacexand quiet. Luna was vey good at staying out of our room after she had introduced herself at check-in 🐕

Maria and her family are very nice and welcomed us very well. The house on the beach is great and very well laid out. The exterior is perfect with lounge chairs, hammocks and a table in the shade. Recommended without hesitation

Beautiful place!!

Our stay at Tico Mae was more than a vacation—it was a beautiful life experience. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed by a precious woman who will forever remain in our hearts: Marita. The Airbnb offers everything one could need, but what truly captured our hearts and souls was the community and its beautiful surroundings—if you are willing to embrace both with an open heart and genuine respect. The breathtaking ocean views were only part of what made this place special. The children, fishermen, families, culture, and simple way of life gave us an authentic cultural experience we will never forget. Even when language was a struggle, it never prevented us from connecting. Tico Mae gave us far more than a place to stay. It gave us a glimpse into a way of life and memories we will carry forever. Some experiences simply cannot be bought. No expensive resort, no matter how luxurious, could ever deliver or provide something this precious.

We really enjoyed the place!

Wow, what a super place to stay! We were really impressed with Heather’s place. We booked quite last minute to stay near the beach for an extra night. The home was a very cute little find. It was right on the beach so the view was beautiful. It was an easy walk along the beach into Samara. There were 5 of us staying and there was plenty of space. Marita, who looks after the house, was the most lovely person. She went above and beyond to look after us and the children. She gave us beach toys and body boards to us. I would highly recommend Heather’s place, we were sad to only stay for one night!

Waterfront accommodation. We particularly appreciated the authenticity of the place. Samara is a 20-minute walk along the beach or a 6-minute drive. The hosts are particularly responsive and attentive. We had a water outage for a few hours and they quickly provided us with water jugs.

Let the patio be the beach! It's spectacular! Sleeping to the sound of the waves, waking up and the first thing you see is the sea. It's beautiful. Have breakfast, have lunch on the beach as easily as cooking and serving immediately and enjoying! Maritha is very nice and always attentive to us if we needed anything. There's a family atmosphere, and my son really enjoyed playing with the local children, who are very friendly. The place is very clean and with all amenities. I'd be back again!!

The family next to the little house is super friendly. I liked spending time with them, and they treated us very well.

Tico Mae is a beautiful, special place! If you’re looking for a pristine touristy American style Airbnb, this is not it. However, if you are seeking an authentic stay in the casita of a beautiful Costa Rican family ON the beach, this is wonderful! There are parts a little more rustic as nature comes in and you’re right on the beach, but if your goal is to spend most of your time outdoors and sleep comfortably this was great. We loved visiting with Marita - the kindest host - and using the boogie boards right on the beach when it was calm enough, and also taking them to La playa Carilla. This was such a richer experience both in the activities and culturally than a hotel. Thank you so much!

My family of four (w/ two kids ages 9 & 12) had a really fun (& eventful!) stay at Heather's place in Samara. It was as described & fit the four of us comfortably. The location at the beach was beautiful. And the hosts are all very responsive via text. We arrived during a tropical storm & the on-site host, Marita, promptly opened the gate so that we could drive our car in. It was pouring rain & she very kindly stood holding an umbrella so we could get our luggage out of our car without getting completely drenched. The whole town lost electricity/water because of the storm & it was really reassuring to have a local host there on site. She kept us updated on the storm/power situation, brought us candles, an emergency light & water. The next afternoon the power was restored & the weather only got better from that point on. We were thankful that we were safe & taken care of & grateful to have been able to get a couple of beautiful beach days in Samara. Thank you Heather, James & Marita!

Perfect stay right on the beach about a 10 minute walk to any restaurant in Samara and being able to step right out on the beach from the back door can’t be beat

Well equipped, convenient stay - a great home base for a couple days located just outside Sámara town. The neighborhood was mainly locals, which made it much more relaxed and quiet than staying on one of the main roads. But, it was walkable (by beach!) to all of Sámara's main attractions. Loved having the ocean on our doorstep. Great find for the price, and Heather was very kind! Thanks for having us!

Wonderful accommodation, right on the beach. Very hospitable welcome! Hammocks were hung up, an extra sunbed was set up, super sweet! We also really liked the place, outside the touristy part and among the Costa Ricans. Very nice to really get a sense of local life.

My husband and I had a wonderful stay at this beautiful Casita. The location cannot be beat, its front yard is gorgeous Sámara Beach, walkable to central Sámara for wonderful restaurants and other activities. Our host had a lot of local recommendations, which we appreciated. The house is located in a quiet local neighborhood, we felt safe and right at home. A peaceful stay in a pristine location, with thoughtful and kind hosts. Thank you so much for hosting us, we loved it!

The place is in a great location. A pleasant walk from Sámara. Quiet location. Very nice hostess. She took care of everything and was always there whenever we needed something. The place was cramped for five people, but it worked out fine. Well-equipped kitchen, comfortable beds, air conditioning, etc. Everything was tip-top.

This beachfront space was perfect for our visit. Right on Samara beach and a short stroll along the beach to all that is needed.

We absolutely loved our stay here and would 100% come back again. The location is unbeatable—right on the beach, with the sound of the ocean at night that makes it so peaceful and relaxing. Waking up to the sounds of monkeys and birds was such a unique experience and really made the stay feel special. The property itself felt like a little slice of nature, with hermit crabs and lizards wandering around, which we loved. There’s also a small convenience store right across the street, which made grabbing snacks and essentials super easy. The host and her family were incredibly kind and welcoming—we truly felt taken care of. She even gave us a sweet little “sea heart” as a gift, which meant a lot to us and made the experience even more memorable. And we can’t forget Luna, their adorable and hilarious dog, who kept us entertained playing with the hermit crabs! Overall, such a special place with amazing hosts. We would absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting

Amazing stay on the beach!

Great place on the beach with everything you need!

My daughter and I had a lovely time- the place is right on the beach, close to amenities and the little town of Samara. We walked 20 minutes to take our surf lesson, eat and walk around the town. The best part of our stay was Marita; she was so kind and helped us with everything we needed! The family atmosphere was great and everyone was so friendly. The beach is beautiful. I would love to stay again!

Great location! The place was clean and had everything needed to enjoy the beach, including sand toys for kids which was a pleasant surprise for us. Marita, who manages the rental was lovely, thorough and available for questions when needed. We really loved our stay here and will hopefully be back.

Great! The real Costa Rican experience. Maritza was so kind and thoughtful!! Thanks for the lovely stay.

Beautiful beach front. Wake up, go out and you are at the beach. Feels private. Even if it’s on a public area. It was extremely relaxing. Marita was the best!

Truly paradise and Marita made us feel extremely welcome. We will definitely be returning here. We spent a fair amount of time scoping out other options in the area and we could not find any other place we would rather stay. I agree with all the other positive reviews so I'll try to add some new information instead of repeating: If you are browsing through listings from afar and have never been to Sámara then you might not appreciate the value of being in a place that is *directly* on the beach. Many other listings may look appealing but entail a walk of a few minutes or more to the beach - that walk is brutal under the sun. Being able to walk directly out the door onto the beach five steps to lounge chairs and hammocks set up and reserved for you in the shade of coconut trees dramatically transforms the whole experience. The beach is your living room ... and your office if you need to work a bit (as I did) as the WiFi extends to the hammocks.

We loved every minute at this place! Everything was as described, and Marita, who was on site, was very attentive! We highly recommend it, and we would be happy to come back if the opportunity arose! It has everything you need on-site for cooking, The beds are comfortable, there is one shower outside and one inside, and it is a 10–15-minute walk to the village of Samara, but there are restaurants closer by and a convenience store right across from the gate!

Beautiful beachfront cottage with direct access to the sea. Toys and boards were available for the children, which made the stay particularly pleasant. The neighbors were attentive and very nice. In addition, you can quickly reach the village of Samara on foot, so restaurants and shopping are easily accessible. Overall a very relaxed and family-friendly stay.

Wonderful stay! Extraordinary location right on the beach, with hammocks and sun loungers. Well-equipped kitchen and Marita is very attentive to us. Quiet place 15 min. walk from the beach in the center of Playa Sámara for more action. Don't miss this great opportunity ❣️

A little paradise with your feet in the water. What a dream to wake up to this view.

Very nice location right on Samara beach. Relaxing. Good restaurants around

Really a beautiful apartment with everything you need for an awesome vacation. The waves breaking in the morning was pleasant

Accommodation directly on the beach with hammock, sun loungers to enjoy the place! The place is away from the city, with the locals. Yes, as described by the host, the place can be noisy at night because of fruit falling on the roof, monkeys, squirrels, dogs barking, but that's part of the reality of being with the locals. They provide earplugs! On site, we were superbly welcomed with fresh tortillas in the morning, cassado, games for children, lots of kindness! I would go back

Hard to beat this location. It’s a more intimate experience in a lively local neighborhood. We loved being able to walk to town along the beach.

Felt like a Corona "Find Your Beach" commercial. The PERFECT location for a beach getaway. Totally safe, easy walk down the beach into Sámara for any food. You'll feel much more culturally connected than at a hotel. A market a few feet away to get your immediate needs. Will dream of coming back here. And, of course, Marita is the best!

Staying here was a true paradise. From sunrise to sunset , we absolutely loved our 4 days right on the beach. Marita made our stay extra special with her care and attention. The yard with its hammocks and lounge chairs was so relaxing. We felt safe. The house itself is really cute and super clean. We cooked all our meals there because we had the best view in town. Weekends tend to be a little more lively on the beach with people gathering and playing music. Would not hesitate to return.

Heather is an amazing and caring host, very helpful and responsive.

Excellent place and super nice service from Marita

We enjoyed staying here so much and would have happily stayed longer if we had time! Beautiful spot right on the beach. It was only a short drive to get to town - Plus had some restaurants we were able to walk to in under 10 minutes taking the walking path beside the beach. Location felt safe and secure. Our host was very friendly and helpful. We would definitely come back!

Wow! This place is absolutely beautiful!! There's nothing better than waking up and having coffee with both feet in the sand! Marita who was there was an amazing host. She always made sure we were okay. On New Year's Eve, she had prepared a fire on the beach. She showed us how to fillet a fish my husband had caught! She even offered us rice she had prepared... A wonderful person! ❤️ And the big wow of this place is being right on the beach with hammocks and sun loungers. The Airbnb is as described: a large room with 2 double beds, a futon and a full kitchen. Our family of 5 didn't need more since we were always outside. I would definitely recommend this place! Pura Vida

Right on the beach. Can watch the sunset from your private hammocks. Can walk to dinner on the beach. Amazing location in Samara.

Cozy authentic Costa Rican accommodations-very friendly & helpful.

Little slice of heaven, beautiful location. The locals are friendly, we feel at home. The grounds are very well appointed and maintained for our well-being and enjoyment. Marita, who takes care of us on site, is very attentive. Always present, available, proactive, she is welcoming, kind and caring. We love it! As far as the house is concerned, there are a few downsides. For example, the patio door that only opens and closes on one side and this, with difficulty, in addition to leaving a small opening at the bottom, with the outside once closed; the shower drain that clogs easily because of the roots of the trees and small crabs that walk there (we love them); the holes in the mosquito net of the front door. On the other hand, all this did not affect us, because everything else is really worth it, including Marita's wonderful hospitality. This is the second time we've stayed there and not the last.

Definitely recommend if you’re looking to be beachfront! Doesn’t get better than this. Big space and secure, and a warm greeting upon arrival.

Beautiful location, right on the beach and a 15 minute walk away from Samara centre. Spotlessly clean and provides everything you need, including extra beach towels, coffee, kitchen facilities and chairs for the beach. Air Conditioning and WiFi was very good too. Beds were comfy, but eye mask and ear plugs are recommended (as advised by host). Host was very responsive and friendly, plus there was a family who look after the BnB on-site if you needed anything.

A great place right on the beach, and in walking distance from the town center. We also really liked having a little grocery store right across the street. The place was clean and spacious enough for 4 of us. We also like the table, chairs and lounge chairs in front of the cabin. Marita and her family who lives next door took great care of us.

The direct beach access is fantastic and the host is warm and very accommodating. We felt very comfortable. It's a unique opportunity to experience how the locals live, just a walk from Samara.

We loved this home! The location is absolutely unbeatable, right on the beach and in a cozy area with locals living around. Heather was a great host. Helpful and quick to respond. Marita who looked after the place was absolutely wonderful. Kept it nice and clean on the outside, and even came and offered us breakfast and freshly baked tortilla bread one morning. The standard of the house is what you can expect for that price with that location. Some small things that felt a little worn, and the water pressure and the hot water in the shower were probably not quite 100%. But this didn't bother us very much and because of the location and service, I would highly recommend it! And we really hope we can come back sometime.

Studio within a family place. You feel at home immediately, host is very welcoming and friendly! We recommend this place!

Hello, thank you for your kindness and the place, just steps from the sea, as described!

Perfect oceanfront location and nearby amenities. It's an experience that makes you feel like you're in a Guanacaste village, unlike staying in downtown Samara, which is more touristy.

We had an absolutely beautiful day, waking up and being able to walk out to the beach is such a dream. The house was perfect with all the amenities we needed, and the outdoor area was just wonderful. It was the perfect distance walk to town on the beach, the area felt very safe and secure, and having off street parking was great peace of mind. We will certainly be trying to book this again if we are in the area!!

Heathers place was just what we were looking for! She greeted us on arrival and showed us around. The space was beautiful and just steps to the beach. She placed loungers, hammocks and a dining table w/ chairs outside for us 🥰🙏. We arrived on a holiday so it was a bit busy, but next day was so peaceful and quiet. We practically had it to ourselves. I wish we had booked more nights…next time! I highly recommend this place.

Great accommodation with direct beach access :) within 10 minutes you are in Samara. Very relaxed with your own hammocks in front of the door ☀️

The location of the bungalow is simply perfect, rare and exceptional. Having a direct entrance on the front line on the beach is beautiful. Living among the locals too. The person on site is really warm, welcoming and attentive while being discreet. The only downside in my opinion: the accommodation deserves some refreshments (some doors are very difficult to open or close), the extra bed for the 5th person is really not very comfortable. The accommodation is in my opinion ideal for 4 people but not for 5. But the location and hospitality quickly make you forget these little inconveniences. We have fond memories of this place. Thanks again to Maritza for her warmth and kindness. Uncomfortable. Uncomfortable.

The place was amazing! Hearing the ocean, the birds and the rosters every morning such a wonderful experience. There is a small mini market across the street from the air bnb which made getting milk, eggs and water from local farmers so convenient. The place was very clean and the owner was very friendly and offered us whatever we needed. The beach was very clean and the water felt amazing it was very warm and perfect to swim. The beach is also very nice for a morning walk or run. The locals were very friendly and would say hi when you pass by, there are some dogs and cats the beach that are very friendly and live peaceful with one another. This stay is truly paradise especially if you come from the city. The way people live in Costa Rica is something I wish I can have in my life every day. I highly recommend this air bnb, definitely worth the cost, you get a much better experience of Costa Rica than staying at a hotel. Thank you for everything Heather, Pura Vida! 🇨🇷

We had a beautiful stay at Tico Mae. The accommodation was as described, a lovely little beach studio in a local neighborhood. This is the sort of thing Airbnb was made for in the first place, we felt like locals for a few days! Marita was wonderful and kept the area up nicely and she was so sweet to our three year old. I’d definitely stay here again in the future!

This is a special place. Not only are you steps away from the beach, nestled in a local neighborhood, with comfortable beds and a kitchen that has everything you need, but what stood out the most was how well cared for we felt through out our stay. Marita, our onsite host, was attentive to our every need and helped us feel comfortable not only in a new place but comfortable to ask any question or request any needs. You will feel very loved and cared for staying here. PLUS - the setting is so peaceful, with the sounds of wildlife and the ocean ever present. You will leave feeling refreshed and renewed.

We have traveled all over the world but can’t remember ever having a stay right on such a beautiful beach! Located right in the middle of the approximately 2 mile long Sámara beach, we enjoyed walks in both directions daily. To town for lunch or dinner and the other way for an uncrowded beautiful stroll to the less active end where the fishing boats are moored out or launched from the beach. Marieta and her family were totally sweet and accommodating. Every day they raked the sand, put out the hammocks and beach chairs. Always asking how everything was. The space was very comfortable. I’m a little wimpy about the few bugs and crabs that made their way inside, but the home is On The Beach. It comes with the territory. A true 5 star experience for what a Motel 6 might go for back home. We will be back! Thanks so much kind hosts!

We had a great time at the place and enjoyed our stay all around

This place is a paradise with your feet in the water!Authentic, close to the locals…a real favorite! We highly recommend! In addition, the host who hosted us was adorable, very helpful by being very discreet

Amazing location. Great space and kitchen was well stocked with what we needed. Heads up. Sofa bed is really small and the padding is very worn. Might be comfortable for someone shorter than 5 feet tall but left us hoping for a better place for our teenage kid to sleep.

Paradise. Thank you to Heather James and Martita for a wonderful stay. for us this was a piece of paradise. nature the sea and the beach just incredible marita knowlegable friendly and kind. offering us toys and body boards for our son and arramging a fire on the beach. Marita and James and his cousin helped with a surfboard. the local community made us feel so welcome. this is a place not to miss. Pura Vida

it literally opens up to the beach; a dream stay!

Our stay here in Samara was truly wonderful, exactly the first international travel experience we wanted with our two kids (6yo and 10yo). The house is located right on the beach, and easy walking distance to the town center and many surrounding activities and restaurants. Relaxing in the hammock under the shade trees was the perfect way to spend our afternoon "siesta" and watch the sunset. There was gear provided for playing on the beach, a mini market across the street, and the AC was really appreciated at bedtime. Marita and her family who live next door were so inviting and happy to help out with anything we needed. We used Google/Apple Translate on our phones to help communicate. Samara beach was unbelievably perfect -- the water was warm, the waves were tame, and the slope of the beach meant we could go out past the breakers to experience the swell of the ocean but still touch the bottom. It is the most comfortable and safe beach experience we have had -- ideal for kids.

Everything went smoothly. Great location and great to be around locals. I got to practice my Spanish.

Very nice place that we recommend, feet in the water, head in the coconut trees. Very good hospitality.

Going back to this beautiful paradise is the first time in our travels when we have loved a place so much that we decided to come back ! The family that hosts are kind, respectful and attentive to their guests . The accommodation is well equipped, most notably the outdoor space that has comfortable loungers and hammocks set underneath the deep shade of the trees. We are really hopeful we can come back again- it really has everything needed for a peaceful and restorative vacation. Thank you once again to the family for all their work to provide this wonderful spot !

Beautiful views staying right on the beach! Would definitely stay here again!

it was everything we wanted. Great space, beachfront, walked to samara via the beach almost every day. it was the perfect location for us.

We liked Heather’s place we decided to spend another night. Thanks Heather!

Marta was great! Thanks Heather for sharing your home with us. My family and I had a great time at your place. There is no better way to fall asleep than listening to the ocean waves. We hope to stay at your place again in the future. Pura Vida!

The location on the beach is stunning! This part of the beach has a more local vibe. Good beds (though a little short to me being a tall person) very delicate bed linen and pillows. Marita, the owner, is a very friendly and attentive person. She invited us to a bonfire on beach and a drive to the beach Carillo. We were very happy to stay at her place.

Incredibly good spot right on the beach. Well-equipped kitchen with everything you need and a little more. Absolutely amazing accommodation and one of the best Airbnb we stayed at!

Marita the on site host is an amazing person. Both Heather and James were responsive and effective.

We had an amazing stay here at Tico Mae. The beachfront access is unbeatable, the host Heather was super accommodating, and Magrita took such great care of the space. We enjoyed lounging outside in the chairs and hammocks. It is walkable to samara but far enough away to be peaceful. When we return to samara, will absolutely stay here again.

What a wonderful place!!! Heaven on earth!! Fall asleep every night with the sound of waves and wake up with the sea, birds and howler monkeys, happiness!! And what about the class with the hammocks, the beach, the sea, wonderful!! The small convenience store opposite offers everything we need day by day with more than competitive prices (no need to compare with prices in town😉) moreover, there is a fishmonger with excellent fresh fish and very good prices 1 min walk away! Being in a quieter beach location is fantastic as well as being able to walk to Samara by the beach is really good! I recommend 100,000% Don't forget to say that Marita is a pearl!!

I loved the place ! It’s so beautiful, right beside the ocean and the hosts are wonderful too !

A pleasure to stay with my family in this paradise. The house is on the beach, with table, lounge chairs and hammocks. Marita was an excellent host. Very friendly and attentive to anything we needed. If we return to Costa Rica we will surely return to this place. Super recommended.

What’s not to love about a waterfront stay where you can hang in a hammock and swim right out the front door? Really enjoyed my stay here. A few notes that may be helpful for others planning their trips: if you aren’t arriving with your own car, locating the property can be tricky. Without an address, it was also a little hard coming into the country when they ask where you’re staying to not have a specific location to share. WiFi worked great including for video calls (even from the hammocks!), though water and power did go out for a few hours each on separate days. It was a little unclear on site who the hosts were and who to ask for help, but everyone I met was welcoming and friendly. I didn’t find food in the neighborhood so had to walk into town for meals, which was easy at low tide but difficult at high tide so plan accordingly—there’s a good kitchen on the property too!

If you are looking to stay on the beach this is it! We had a blast in this beautiful place!

Querida Marita, Immediately we felt at home, they treated us with great affection :) Thank you very much. The apartment has everything your heart wants, including a flashlight and a hair dryer. Marita also organized us super fresh fish directly from the sea. We kayak tours and had a fantastic oceanfront bonfire in the evenings. We will come back and wish you and your family all the best. pure life Bárbara and Juan

Perfect airbnb!!!!! Everything was exceptional, the welcome, the location and the little touches. The kitchen is very well equipped. I highly recommend it and we would return anytime. Thank you

I stayed at the studio unit for the month of November 2024, totally peaceful, wonderful people, outstanding location, had a delightful time. Marita was salt of the earth, with a huge heart!! I hope to return again. Thank you, happy holidays

The place is beautiful, very comfortable, very well equipped, extremely quiet, the person in charge is very friendly and made good recommendations. We really had a good time.

The accommodations were perfect!