Surfing

The surf is relatively gentle at Sámara, so it's a good place for beginners to learn to get up on a board. The challenging waves for more experienced surfers are farther south, at Playa Camaronal, which has both left and right breaks.

C&C Surf School. The most experienced beachfront surf school offers lessons from beginner up ($60 per 90-minute private lesson, including five-day board rental; $40 for two or more beginners) with certified instructors, and a huge selection of boards for rent ($4 per hour; $10 per day or $15 for 24 hours). On beach next to Gusto Beach Creativo, Sámara, Guanacaste. 8817--2203; 8457--0132.

Ticos Surf School. This beachfront surf school also has stand-up paddleboards and kayaks to rent. Kayaking tours through the mangroves or on the ocean are $45 per person; 1½-hour paddleboard lessons (also $45) include an extra hour of practice time. On beach, Sámara, Guanacaste. 8457–0132.