2 Best Shopping in Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica

Delicate coconut carvings and sophisticated, one-of-a-kind jewelry made with polished amber, turquoise, and orange spondylus shells are the specialty of Carlos, a skilled local artisan. You'll find him in his workshop, 9 to 7:30 daily, on Sámara's main street into town. Carlos and his wife, Simon, also make lovely papier-mâché globe lamps, along with a range of coconut-oil soaps and lotions.

More than a market for a wide range of gluten-free, dairy-alternative, vegetarian options, and organic foods, this spacious, pleasant shop sells imported olive oils and other gastronomic treats—rare in these parts. There's also a selection of artisan-made objets d'art. You can sit in one of the lounge chairs here and sip an espresso, a just-pressed exotic fruit drink, or a healthy, organic potion. Vegetable dips and spreads are packaged to go, along with organic brownies, cookies, and cakes.