About Playa Rajada, Guanacaste
Playa Rajada is located on the far northwest coast of Guanacaste Province in Costa Rica. It’s a rounded bay facing out to the Pacific Ocean, with gentle waves, turquoise water, and soft, white sand. The remote beach is situated close to the border with Nicaragua, making it a completely unspoiled place to enjoy some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches.
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It remains a little hidden gem, even in high season when Playa Rajada remains quiet and secluded with very few people making it all the way up as far as Salinas Bay. If you’re looking for a wonderful spot for some snorkeling, swimming, or relaxing, then Playa Rajada should be at the top of your list.
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How to Get to Playa Rajada, Guanacaste
The remote location of Playa Rajada means that the best way to reach it is by car, with limited public transport available.
By Car
Playa Rajada is easy to reach by car. It’s located just 89 km or a 1 hour 45 minute drive from Liberia International Airport via La Cruz. There are two beaches next to each other, but Playa Rajada is the one right next to Playa El Jobo, and then Playa Rajadita is the smaller bay along the way.
Once you pass El Jobo village, the road is a decent gravel road. Generally, it’s in good condition right up to the beach so a 4×4 is not required. However, after heavy rain, it can become corrugated with many potholes.
By Bus/Shuttle
While Rajada Beach is not directly accessible by public transport, you can make your way there using a combination of several buses and a taxi. From Liberia, you can take a public bus to La Cruz, and then take one of the 4-5 buses that run each day between La Cruz and El Jobo. You’ll need a taxi to take you the short drive from El Jobo town to the beach.
Parking at Playa Rajada, Guanacaste
At the end of the dirt road, you’ll find plenty of free parking under the trees just back from the beach. You can park your car anywhere there on the dirt, with no parking fees or attendants for the most part. Ensure you do not leave any valuables in your car and everything is locked up before you head to the beach.
Facilities at Playa Rajada, Guanacaste
Playa Rajada is a beautiful beach, but it is rather secluded and off the beaten path. The beach is down the end of a dirt road with no facilities and very little phone reception/signal. It’s best to be well prepared and bring all your own food, drinks, and beach chairs to set up under the shade. Just a short drive away, Playa El Jobo has public facilities such as a bathroom to access if you need it.
Things to Do at Playa Rajada, Guanacaste
Playa Rajada is a nice beach that has plenty of things to keep you busy despite being away from bigger towns and more popular beaches.
Go Swimming
Playa Rajada offers a nice place for a splash around in the bay. The beautiful, clear water makes it an enticing beach to hop into the water. However, we have to warn you, it’s pretty cold water for most of the year, being on the northwest Pacific coast.
You’ll need to be savvy with rips, too, so be aware of unusual currents as you head into the water. Jellyfish and manta rays are often out and about from January to April, so keep an eye out for those.
Try Snorkeling Amongst the Coral
As soon as you see the crystal clear water of Playa Rajada, you’ll understand why some people bring along their snorkelling gear. While it’s not a known snorkelling spot, you’ll still find colourful coral, rocks, and plenty of fish with good visibility.
It can be a fun way to introduce kids to snorkelling, but you might find some small waves if the wind picks up, making it a bit challenging.
Walk up to the Mirador
If you’re keen to stretch your legs for a nice view, then head up to a hidden lookout known as Mirador Shenkui de Rajadas. This little spot on the headland between Playas Rajada and Rajadita can be reached on an informal walking trail.
At the south end of Playa Rajada, you’ll find paths leading up the steep hill to the cliffs above. It’s a well-worn trail that has uneven ground and an exposed cliff down one side, so be careful. From the top, you’ll find an incredible view of both beaches. It’s especially stunning at sunset when you’ll get some wonderful photos!
Relax on the Sand
Being one of the least visited beaches in Costa Rica, you can easily relax on the sand with barely anyone else around. Enjoy the birds in the forest and the sound of lapping waves as you bathe in the sun. You’ll likely find more locals than tourists at the beach, but even on weekends, it’s still very quiet.
Explore Nearby Beaches
Playa Rajada is close to many other remote beaches in north Guanacaste. Right next door, you’ll find Playa El Jobo with an expansive resort and restaurants. Otherwise, head north to Salinas Bay and you’ll find many quiet beaches around the bay with plenty of options for windsurfing.
Playa Manzanillo is also a secluded beach just outside of El Jobo. You can easily spend the day beach hopping around the area!
FAQs:
Can you Swim at Playa Rajada, Guanacaste?
Yes, you can swim at Playa Rajada. The beach is a great spot for swimming with small waves and crystal-clear water. However, be careful of rip currents further out which can catch you off guard if you’re not a confident swimmer.
Can you Fish at Playa Rajada, Guanacaste?
You can certainly try fishing with the chance of catching Roosterfish, Jacks, Dorado, Yellowfin, Mahi-Mahi or Cubera Snapper. With offshore fishing, marlin, large dorado and yellowfin tuna are also an option. You can opt to join fishing charters from Playa El Jobo.
Can you Surf at Playa Rajada, Guanacaste?
The water at Playa Rajada is relatively calm with gentle waves not appropriate for surfing. However, just around the headland, Salinas Bay is known as one of the best kite-boarding and windsurfing places in all of Costa Rica.
Is Playa Rajada, Guanacaste Safe for Families?
Playa Rajada is a great place to take the whole family. The soft sand and calm water, along with very few crowds make it perfect for kids to play outside in nature safely. The trees also provide the right amount of shade for children after splashing in the sea.
Where to Stay near Playa Rajada, Guanacaste
Due to its remote location, there are not too many hotels near the beach, but still several options for resorts in the surrounding area.
Mid Range/Budget Hotel:
A surprisingly moderately priced resort, Nandel Beach Resort is a secluded hotel on Playa Pochotes. Spacious double rooms and suites overlook the gardens, outdoor pool, and swaying palm trees, along with an onsite restaurant offering vegetarian and vegan meals. It’s just a 10-minute drive from Playa Rajada and close to many other beaches in the area. Prices start from $140 per night.
Luxury Hotel:
A world-class resort complex located on Playa El Jobo, Dreams Las Mareas is a sustainable 5-star hotel. Each modern suite features a balcony with views of the gardens, mountains or Salinas Bay. You can also find a fitness center, tour desk, nightclub, outdoor swimming pools overlooking the beach, and three restaurants surrounded by tropical gardens within the complex. Prices start from $800 per night.
Where to Eat: Best Restaurants near Playa Rajada, Guanacaste
Tatay Cafe Restaurante And Seafood
Located in El Jobo village just a few minute’s drive from Playa Rajada, this is the best option to grab a quick meal close to the beach. The relaxed restaurant serves up large plates of delicious, fresh seafood, including lobster, ceviche, and whole-grilled fish. It’s reasonably priced, making it appealing for all different travellers.
The Naked Indian
On the road to Playa El Jobo, this atmospheric restaurant has rustic outdoor seating illuminated by fairy lights and surrounded by palm trees. They also specialize in a range of seafood dishes, including surf and turf, ceviche, and lobster. You might also be lucky to catch some live music there on weekends.
Sea Side Grill
For a more fine dining experience, this grill restaurant is located inside Dreams Las Mareas Resort. With a beautiful setting overlooking the outdoor pool and tropical gardens, you can select from the a la carte, which features sirloin steak, grilled shrimp and fish, and a range of classy desserts.
The Bottom Line
If you’re planning a trip to the northern region of Costa Rica, then adding a few off-the-beaten-track beaches is a must. Playa Rajada is the epitome of an untouched coastline and should definitely be on your list of the best things to do in northwest Guanacaste.
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