After much research and planning flights have finally been purchased. This trip will be a reality! Thanks for all of the expertise, tips, and advice posted in this forum.

I am planning a 12 day trip in late July/early August. Originally I had selected the Playa Conchal/Brasilito/Flamingo area in Guanacaste for our beach time since this area of the country is the driest and will most likley have the best beach weather during the wet season. However, I've read so much about and seen so many beautiful pictures of Samara, that I'm beginning to wonder if we should go there instead or in addition to what I have planned. Will Samara be sufficiently dry in early August? (It absolutely poured rain during my entire Hawaii vacation last year, so much so that dams were breaking and sitting on the beach was out of the question. I'm looking to avoid a repeat of that experience.)

Here's a look at our proposed itinterary. We're traveling on a budget, so we'll be taking Interbus and/or public buses:

D1-arrive at SJO, spend night in Alajuela
D2-travel by bus to Fortuna
D3-Arenal
D4-Arenal
D5-Arenal, afternoon bus to Tamarindo
D6-Beaches near Tamarindo
D7-Beaches near Tamarindo
D8-Bus to Quepos/Mauel Antonio
D9-Manuel Antonio
D10-Manuel Antonio
D11-Manuel Antonio, afternoon bus to Alajuela
D12-Fly out of SJO

I would expect a little more rain near Samara but not a ton. Hard to predict weather.

If you go to Samara visit Playa Carrillo for the nicest beach in the area. (2km south)

My pick would be Conchal for your itenerary.

have a fun vacation!
roger
http://www.fun-costa-rica-vacations.com

If is wet in Conchal, Brasilito, Flamingo, Guacamaya, etc...very good to excellent chances that Samara is going to be the same!!

In your case I will said you have better chances to find a good low price hotel in Samara than in Conchal Brasilito area...

R.A Luis

Just buckle up and enjoy the ride in paradise!!

I also recommend visiting Samara and Playa Carrillo. We walked (about 7km) and while it was hot, the beaches of Carrillo were worth every single step! Just be sure to take water and snacks with you as there are no bars/restaurants on the beach. You can see my travel blog (with pictures of Samara and Carrillo) here:
http://blogs.bootsnall.com/DawnP/