Salinas Bay: A Guanacaste Gem
Discover Salinas Bay, Costa Rica: A haven for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and tranquil beaches in Guanacaste's stunning northwest corner.
Salinas Bay, nestled in the northwest corner of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, near the Nicaraguan border, is a hidden gem known for its turquoise waters and diverse marine ecosystems. This bay is a haven for wind and kite surfers due to its strong, consistent winds, and it offers unspoiled beaches and access to nearby national parks.
A brief summary to Salinas Bay
Local tips
- Visit between November and May for the best windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions due to consistent winds.
- Explore Isla Bolaños National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching; boat tours are available from April to November.
- Bring water shoes as some beaches have sharp stones and shells.
- Consider a day trip to nearby Santa Rosa National Park to explore its diverse wildlife and historical sites.
- Pack sunscreen, water, and snacks, as facilities are limited on some of the more secluded beaches.
Getting There
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Car
From Liberia International Airport (LIR), the drive to Salinas Bay is approximately 1.5 hours. Rent a car at the airport and take Highway 1 towards La Cruz. From La Cruz, follow the signs to Salinas Bay. Be aware that some roads may be narrow and winding, especially during the rainy season. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended but not required. Parking is generally available near the beaches. Car rentals at Liberia Airport can range from $30-$75 per day depending on the vehicle type and rental company.
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Shuttle
Private shuttle services are available from Liberia International Airport (LIR) to Salinas Bay. Pre-booking is recommended to ensure availability. The journey takes around 1.5 hours. Shuttle services typically cost between $80-$150 for a private van, accommodating up to 6 passengers.
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Public Transport
From Liberia, take a bus to La Cruz. Buses leave frequently from the Liberia bus terminal. In La Cruz, transfer to a local bus heading to El Jobo, which passes through Salinas Bay. Buses to El Jobo run approximately three times daily. The bus fare from Liberia to La Cruz is approximately $2-$3, and the fare from La Cruz to El Jobo is around $1-$2. Be prepared for a longer travel time and limited service.
Discover more about Salinas Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Surf Ranch Hotel & Resort
27.3 km
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AquaViva Hotel Collection
28.8 km
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La Cascada del sur san juan del sur
28.9 km
Experience the beauty of San Juan del Sur at La Cascada del Sur, your perfect getaway for relaxation and adventure on Nicaragua's Pacific coast.
Lugar Escondido
29.3 km
Discover the tranquility and beauty of San Juan del Sur at Lugar Escondido, your perfect holiday apartment retreat in Nicaragua.
Pelican Eyes Piedras Y Olas Resort
29.3 km
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Fortaleza El Vigía
29.4 km
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El Faro (The Lighthouse)
29.4 km
Explore El Faro, the historic lighthouse in San Juan del Sur, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific coast and rich maritime history.
El Vigia
29.4 km
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Hotel Victoriano
29.4 km
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Casa de Cultura Carlos Contreras Espinoza
29.4 km
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Casa Oro Eco Hostel
29.4 km
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La Santa María Resort San Juan del Sur
29.5 km
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Hotel Gran Oceano
29.5 km
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Naked Tiger Hostel
29.6 km
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Iskra Travel & Tours
29.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Playa Copal
2.8 km
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Puerto Soley
3.0 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Puerto Soley, a stunning beach destination in Guanacaste Province, perfect for relaxation and exciting adventures.
Rajada Beach
3.2 km
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Playa Coyotera
3.4 km
Experience the tranquility of Playa Coyotera, a beautiful campground in Guanacaste Province, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Reserva Los Cangrejos - 420 Crab Reservation
3.9 km
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Playa Coco
4.2 km
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Hacienda El Cenizaro Tours & Adventures
4.7 km
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Playa El Jobo
4.8 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Playa El Jobo, a tranquil beach destination in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Rajada
5.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Playa Rajada, a hidden beach park in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Mirador de Bahía Salinas
6.3 km
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Playa Manzanillo
6.4 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Playa Manzanillo, a serene beach paradise in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa las Pilas
6.8 km
Explore the pristine shores and vibrant wildlife of Playa las Pilas in Golfo de Santa Elena, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
La Cruz , Guanacaste
6.8 km
Explore La Cruz in Guanacaste: A stunning blend of nature, culture, and adventure awaits in this Costa Rican paradise.
Playa Rajadita
6.8 km
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Refugio de Vida Silvestre Junquillal
9.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Sabores de mi Patio
29.2 km
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Ding Repair Cafe
29.3 km
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Pane Nostro
29.4 km
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Wrap N' Roll
29.4 km
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Sunset Restaurant Resort
29.4 km
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SansibaTastyFood
29.4 km
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Tiki Cafe
29.4 km
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San Juan del Sur Cervecería
29.5 km
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Wave Cocktail & Tapas Bar- San Juan del Sur
29.5 km
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Hijo de Pita
29.5 km
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Asado Juanita
29.5 km
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Don Monchis
29.5 km
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Comedor Clementina
29.5 km
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Maggys steakhouse
29.5 km
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El Pollito Pescador
29.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Britt Shop Dreams Las Mareas
4.3 km
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Souvenir el cenizaro
4.7 km
Discover the heart of Costa Rican craftsmanship at Souvenir el cenizaro, your go-to destination for unique home goods and authentic souvenirs in Playa Copal.
Souvenir el Mirador
6.8 km
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Boutique Antioca
7.0 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Boutique Antioca in La Cruz, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary style.
Huaca Store
7.1 km
Explore Huaca Store in La Cruz for trendy youth clothing that showcases vibrant Costa Rican culture and style.
Iguana Store
7.1 km
Explore the Iguana Store in La Cruz for a unique selection of locally crafted clothing and accessories inspired by the beauty of Costa Rica.
Outlet La Cruz
7.1 km
Shop smart at Outlet La Cruz in Guanacaste, where incredible discounts meet a diverse selection of top brands for the ultimate retail experience.
Utópica Store & Creations
7.5 km
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Tico Souvenirs
11.7 km
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YEYE STORE
12.4 km
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Santa Rosa National Park
23.2 km
Explore the ecological wonder of Santa Rosa National Park, a Costa Rican gem with pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and rich history.
Variedades Ferciss
28.5 km
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Tienda Calu
29.2 km
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Tienda DonJusto
29.2 km
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Alexander grocery store
29.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
El Indio Bar & Grill
4.2 km
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Bar Sport La Sintetica
7.7 km
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Lainup Bar
25.1 km
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Slaudy Bar Surf Brothers
25.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of surf culture and delicious local cuisine at Slaudy Bar Surf Brothers in El Sucio.
Bokana Cocktails & Bar
25.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of El Sucio at Bokana Cocktails & Bar, where delicious tapas and cocktails await your discovery.
Salt Bar Nicaragua
29.1 km
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Ranchitos Kalova`s
29.4 km
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The BUS Station
29.5 km
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Marcos Rental
29.5 km
Experience the best of San Juan del Sur at Marcos Rental, where refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable time.
Nacho - San Juan del Sur
29.6 km
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The Hip San Juan del Sur
29.6 km
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San Juan Del Sur Beach Club
29.7 km
Discover the vibrant San Juan Del Sur Beach Club - your ultimate beachside retreat for relaxing drinks and stunning sunset views.
Rock Bar SJDS
29.7 km
Experience breathtaking sunsets and vibrant nightlife at Rock Bar SJDS in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua's coastal gem.
Arribas Bar
29.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Arribas Bar in San Juan del Sur, where great drinks and good times meet stunning coastal views.
Sunny Beach Bar
29.9 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and stunning ocean views at Sunny Beach Bar in San Juan del Sur, the ultimate tropical escape for tourists.
