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Playa Sámara/Carrillo Airport (PLD), designated by the ICAO as MRCR, is a small domestic aviation facility located in the Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica, serving the coastal villages of Sámara and Puerto Carrillo. The airport functions as a basic regional landing ground and does not feature a formal commercial passenger terminal building or staffed administrative offices. It historically served as a critical infrastructure link for the Nicoya Peninsula, primarily supporting small turboprop charters and private sightseeing flights.
Facilities at the airstrip are extremely minimal and reflect its status as an unattended rural landing site. The 'terminal' typically consists of a basic covered shelter used for passenger waiting and weighing luggage before boarding, but lacks modern commercial amenities such as retail shops, full-service restaurants, or public restrooms. Travelers and pilots are advised to be completely self-sufficient and to handle all logistical needs, including food and water, in the nearby Sámara town center, located approximately 3 miles (5 km) to the west.
Operationally, the airfield features a single 3,445-foot grass runway and functions strictly during daylight hours under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). As of early 2026, the facility is reported to be inactive for regular scheduled commercial services, with travelers to the region typically utilizing Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia or Nosara Airport (NOB). Ground transportation to the various beach resorts is informal, with visitors generally arranging pre-booked shuttle transfers or private vehicle pickups to reach the scenic crescent-shaped beaches of the Pacific coast.
Airlines Serving PLD
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Currently inactive for scheduled service with travelers typically using Liberia (LIR) or Nosara airports for Nicoya Peninsula beach access to Sámara and Puerto Carrillo Pacific coastal destinations. Basic grass airstrip facilities offer minimal amenities requiring advance preparation as commercial services extremely limited in this small coastal community. S. dollars cash, as ATM and credit card facilities restricted to larger coastal towns serving beach tourism. Environmental conservation includes sea turtle protection, dry tropical forest preservation, and sustainable tourism throughout Guanacaste Conservation Area. Alternative airport access via Liberia International provides more reliable commercial service for travelers accessing this remote but beautiful Pacific coastal region.
Ground transport historically included pre-arranged shuttles and taxis accessing Sámara village (3 miles) and beachfront accommodations along Costa Rica's most scenic Pacific coastline. Spanish essential for all interactions throughout Costa Rica, where Guanacaste culture and Pacific coastal traditions create relaxed beach atmosphere. Beach tourism coordinates with Pacific coast surfing, fishing, sea turtle nesting, and beachfront accommodations throughout Guanacaste's pristine coastal wilderness. Cultural attractions include traditional Costa Rican coastal communities, local cuisine, artisan crafts, and Pacific coast festival celebrations.
Tropical dry forest climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, plus grass runway requiring VFR daytime operations during active periods serving coastal tourism. Banking services limited requiring Costa Rican colón or U. Marine activities include surfing at Sámara beach, fishing for roosterfish and mahi-mahi, snorkeling, and wildlife watching along protected Pacific coastline. Dry season (December-April) offers optimal beach conditions while wet season brings reduced tourism and lower prices for coastal accommodation access.
Expert Travel Tips & Insights
Pro Traveler Secrets
• Check latest schedules when connecting through Playa Samara/Carrillo Airport.
• Check your flight status before leaving for the airport.
• Allow extra time during peak travel periods at this airport.
• Keep important documents easily accessible at this airport.
• Download your airline's mobile app for updates at this airport.
Quick Facts
Minimum domestic connection:
45 minutes
International connections:
90 minutes
Interline transfers:
120 minutes
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