Looking for an amazing beach right beside an all inclusive resort in Costa Rica? Check out Playa El Jobo and the resort Dreams Las Mareas. This spot is on the northern Pacific side of Costa Rica in the Guanacaste Province. It’s about a two hour drive from the Liberia International Airport.

This area has plenty to see and do. There’s many beautiful beaches to explore, small fishing villages and excursions to inland areas. It’s also very close to the border of Nicaragua if you’re trip takes you north.

Be sure to check out our Packing List for great stuff that I use in Costa Rica. At the beaches it’s important to use sunscreen, check out the roll on option in the shop!monkey dreams las maraes

White faced monkey spotted in the trees at Dreams Las Maraes. There’s a lot of monkeys in the trees around the resort.

Getting There

You’ll likely be starting your vacation landing at the Liberia Airport. This is a great airport that gets you closer to the beaches in Guanacaste, skipping the traffic around San Jose. From there head north along Highway #1 towards Nicaragua.  There are two way to get to El Jobo, the first is turning sooner off Highway #1 at Highway #14. This will take you a bit longer to arrive, but it’s worth the drive. You’ll head through several smalls towns, and have some amazing views to check out.

Be sure to stop at Mirador de Playa Bassey for an amazing view of the Gulf of Santa Elena. This road is very choppy and I recommend an SUV as there’s many gravel sections with potholes. The second route is to stay on Highway #1 for a bit longer, and turn in a town called La Cruz. This town has restaurants and shopping which are great to stock up on items you’ll need at the beach. Items for sale at Dreams Resort are very expensive, so be sure to think about what you’ll need while you’re in La Cruz.

Either way you take, you’ll arrive on the same road leading into Playa El Jobo. This road is also very pitted out and has tire-busting potholes, so drive carefully.

For more information about landing at Liberia Airport, check out our guide on the blog.

Playa El Jobo

El Jobo is the beach that is in front of the resort. It’s a fantastic white sand beach with groomed sitting area. There’s lots of space to relax and hang out. The water itself is shallow, so it’s great for swimming. The beach is contained within a crescent bay, so you can expect at high and low tide to have calm conditions. 

Given that the beach is public, you will find vendors there. From small trinkets to fishing charters/jet skis, you’ll be able to find something to do while you’re there. There’s a restaurant called Lapa Lapa which is open to the public just on the beach as well.

For parking, just drive past the front entrance to Dreams Resort, and you’ll find a small public lot. It’s a very short walk to access the beach from there.

Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica

Dreams is a 4 star all inclusive hotel that has great reviews and has very nice grounds. There’s lots of pools to check out with different vibes, and really nice accommodations.

The resort has well groomed grounds which are great for your wedding venue. We had seed a wedding set up at the pools and on the beach.

One of the best things to see is the many monkeys that hang out behind one of the buildings. We had the opportunity to see some white-faced capuchins. These curious creatures will come up and say hello, both at the trees and on your balcony. There’s also howler monkeys that hang out in the area.

If you’re looking for a lower cost option all inclusive resort in Costa Rica, visit our blog post about Fiesta All Inclusive in Puntarenas Province.

Most mornings in Costa Rica start with coffee for me, and 1820 coffee was my daily cup. It’s well priced and delicious. Try it before your vacation, or bring the taste home after.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Playa El Jobo from Liberia Airport?

Playa El Jobo is about a 1.5-hour drive from Liberia Airport. You can rent a car, arrange for a private shuttle, or use a taxi service. The roads are generally well-maintained, but it’s a good idea to use Waze or Google Maps for the journey.

Is Dreams Las Mareas an all-inclusive resort?

Yes, Dreams Las Mareas is an all-inclusive resort. Your stay includes meals, drinks, activities, and entertainment. It’s a convenient option for travelers looking to relax and enjoy their vacation without worrying about additional costs.

What activities are available at Playa El Jobo?

Playa El Jobo has a range of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and beach volleyball. The calm waters make it ideal for water sports, and the surrounding nature offers great opportunities for hiking and exploring.

Can I access Playa El Jobo if I’m not staying at Dreams Las Mareas?

Yes, Playa El Jobo is a public beach, so you can visit even if you’re not staying at Dreams Las Mareas. However, some amenities like beach chairs and umbrellas may be reserved for resort guests.

Are there any restaurants near Playa El Jobo?

There are a few local restaurants and sodas (small local eateries) near Playa El Jobo where you can enjoy traditional Costa Rican dishes. However, options are limited, so many visitors dine at the restaurants within Dreams Las Mareas or take a short drive to nearby towns.

Is Playa El Jobo good for swimming?

Yes, Playa El Jobo is known for its calm and warm waters, making it a safe and pleasant spot for swimming. The beach is relatively quiet, allowing for a relaxed swimming experience.

What wildlife can I expect to see around Playa El Jobo?

You might see various wildlife, including iguanas, monkeys, and numerous bird species. The area is rich in biodiversity, and you may even spot some marine life while snorkeling.

What’s the best time of year to visit Playa El Jobo and Dreams Las Mareas?

The dry season, from December to April, is the most popular time to visit Playa El Jobo due to the sunny weather. However, the green/rainy season (May to November) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds, though you may encounter some rain.

Are there any nearby attractions to visit?

Yes, nearby attractions include Santa Rosa National Park, which offers hiking trails and historical sites. Nearby is La Cruz, a small town where you can experience local culture and cuisine. You can also take boat tours to explore the surrounding beaches and marine life.

Is Playa El Jobo suitable for families with children?

Playa El Jobo is family-friendly, with gentle waves and plenty of space for kids to play. Dreams Las Mareas also offers various activities and amenities tailored for children, making it a great destination for families.