Costa Rica: ATV Beach Ride & Playa Rajada Swim from Dreams

Summary

ATV through Costa Rica’s wild beaches and quiet villages with local stops

You’ll feel Costa Rica under your skin on this ATV tour from Dreams Las Mareas — riding rough trails with Fidel, stopping for fresh ceviche in El Jobo, swimming at Playa Rajada, and catching glimpses of wildlife along the way. Expect laughter, honest flavors, and moments you’ll keep replaying long after you’ve rinsed off the sand.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the crunch of gravel under the tires, and Fidel waving us forward with a grin that made me trust him instantly. The air smelled like wet leaves and a bit of engine oil — not unpleasant, just real. We set off from Dreams Las Mareas on our ATVs, dust trailing behind us as we zipped past tangled green brush. Fidel kept calling out names of birds or trees (I forgot most, honestly), but he slowed down every time he spotted something moving in the branches. Once it was a monkey — or maybe just its tail? Hard to say, but everyone stopped to stare anyway.

We rattled into El Jobo next, a sleepy little town where people waved from doorways and kids chased each other barefoot across the street. Fidel pointed out his favorite soda — that’s what they call little restaurants here — and said we could stop if we wanted. Someone in our group tried ordering ceviche in Spanish; the cook laughed and brought us something spicy and fresh, all lime and cilantro. I still think about that taste when I smell limes now. Back on the ATVs, my arms buzzed from the ride but I didn’t really mind.

The best part was rolling up to Playa Rajada just as the sun started getting heavy over the water. The sand felt cool under my shoes. Some of us jumped in for a swim (the water’s clearer than any pool), while others just stood there watching Nicaragua’s mountains across the bay — you can actually see them from here, which feels kind of wild. Fidel told us stories about how both countries share this coastline; I only caught half of it because I was distracted by pelicans diving nearby. It wasn’t perfect weather or anything — clouds kept drifting over — but somehow that made it better.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — ATV tour visiting beaches and town

• Ride through tropical trails
• Stop at beach to take photos
• Wet feet and view Nicaragua mountains
• Pass by Playa Rajada beach
• Stop at El Jobo town for food and shopping
• Learn about local life from guide

Top questions

How long is the ATV tour from Dreams Las Mareas?

The ATV tour lasts around 2 hours through beaches and local villages.

Which beaches do we visit on this ATV ride?

You’ll pass Coyotera, Ecoplaya, Manzanillo, Pilas, and Playa Rajada.

Is swimming included during the tour?

Yes, you can choose to stop for a swim at one of the beaches like Playa Rajada.

Are food or drinks included on this ATV tour?

Bottled water is included; you can also stop at a local restaurant if you want to buy food.

Do we visit any towns during this day trip?

Yes, there’s a stop in El Jobo where you can explore or eat at local spots.

Is hotel pickup included for this ATV experience?

The tour starts directly at Dreams Las Mareas hotel.

What should I bring for this ATV ride?

A camera is recommended for photos; swimwear if you want to swim; comfortable clothes.

Is this private or group-based?

The reference doesn’t specify private tours; check with operator for details.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water throughout the ride and plenty of chances to pause for photos or take a dip at your favorite beach along the route. If hunger strikes, there’s always an option to stop in El Jobo for typical Costa Rican food or seafood before heading back dusty and happy.