Living in Costa Rica i dont expect perfection, but this is far from. Villas were not cleaned prior to our arrival. They were cleaned but sat empty for at least a month with no staff double checking prior to giving us the key. The service was ok but not good....not enough staff and many bugs because the villas are very old. It is however very picturesque and has a nice pool, the food was good but not cheap. This would be a very nice place with better management and updating. It would be one of the better sixty dollar a night hotels in Samara because of its lication and lanscape...however its not sixty bucks!

Okay people: you want to stay in Costa Rica well guess what...THERE ARE BUGS!! No hotel can possibly keep them out. You don't want bugs, go to Florida. Great hotel though. Excellent service. Friendly people. Great location. Nothing more could make it better.

This was our third stay at Villas Play Samara and it never disappoints. Unlike so many resorts that are big, ostentatious and overdone, this one respects its environment and reamins organic with its surroundings. The landscaping is breathtaking. We lost count of the number of bird species we observed each day at dawn. We saw howler monkeys every day of our stay.

The beach is also wonderful. It is large and unspoiled and stretches for several miles. Nice soft sand, good shelling, and again, plentiful wildlife. We were treated to the sight of dolphins, mantarays and giant tortoises a short boat ride from the shore. The surf is gentle and good for children. Reefs for snorkeling are easily accessible.

The villas are very pleasant and air-conditioned and have enough space for families to spread out. We especially appreciated the kitchen, complete with all the cooking utensils we needed. We also made ample use of the hammock on the front patio.

The swimming pool is clean and well-maintained and the bartender at the swim-up bar knows how to mix a drink - particulary the piña coladas made with the freshest of pineapples. The restaurant has well-prepared food at reasonable prices. As some have noted, they could do with a larger staff; however, the staff that is there is exceptionally friendly and helpful. We could not have been more pleased!

After reading the reviews on this site my wife and I were a bit scared about coming to Villas playa Samara, that being said I'm not someone who normally write reviews but after staying there and fully enjoying my stay I've decided to share a few things that might help people appreciate this place 1. this is one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica 2. This place has an island with in 3 min boat ride which the hotel will arrange 3.the staff were very courteous and friendly, service was above standard in Costa Rica 4. This is an eco beach resort so yes there are some bugs, that's what nature has in some places of the world, if you're looking for a bug free Miami look alike just go to the Marriott or Four Seasons......this place was great, the food was great, the room was renovated, beautiful gardens, monkeys in the morning, many birds.....a wonderful and unforgettable experience will return!!