Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Carrillo. Playa Samara/Carrillo Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave PLD:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Costa Rica. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Carrillo takes about 60 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Playa Samara/Carrillo Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Carrillo, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What’s Worth Seeing in Carrillo
If you head into Carrillo, here are two things worth checking out:
Playa Carrillo Beach is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
Explore Playa Samara Town is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at PLD, check out Airstrip Plane Spotting or Relax in Open-Air Waiting Pavilion to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Carrillo: Restaurante El Colibri and Lo Que Hay. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Basic Refreshments & Snacks or Local Fruit & Coffee Vendor. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Bag Storage Near PLD
Dedicated luggage storage at PLD may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Carrillo’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at PLD should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Costa Rica and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at PLD
Long overnight layover? Your options at PLD include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Costa Rica also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Carrillo exploring the streets or relaxing at PLD, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.