Playa Dorada: The Golden Beach

Golden Beach would be the translation for its name, Playa Dorada is a nice and peaceful beach located in Izabal.

You'll find plenty of restaurants near the shore with an open view.

The name Playa Dorada derives from the color of the small and tiny golden-like-rocks.

There was a time when it was just amazing to see millions of it but people began taking it away for decoration. Now the little rocks are not that abundant as before. Anyway you can still enjoy the color of the shore and it's kind touch to the feet.

The water at Playa Dorada is also kinda warm and the road to the beach is surrounded by a peaceful forest.

Try the fish!

The fish taste is great. You'll find restaurants nearby and specially on summer, where the food options are all around.


What to expect at Playa Dorada?

  • A beach covered with little golden-yellowish rocks.
  • Peace, relaxation and also lots of fun depending on what part of the beach you choose.
  • Sunny days most of the year.
  • Great and tasty meals (specially fish, really, try it!)
  • Don't expect any hotels or ATMS.

How to get to Playa Dorada

The directions are quite easy to follow: From Guatemala City take the CA9 heading to Izabal. You'll see the entrance to Quirigua archaeological site, stay on the main road.

After a while you'll see a turn to your left clearly marked as the entrance to Playa Dorada. Take the turn and drive fro another 30 minutes until you reach the beach.

You can also take many of the first class buses departing from Guatemala City going to Izabal and Peten. Get off the bus at the fork just after Quirigua and before Los Andes and Virginia Bridge. Small buses go from the main road to Playa Dorada, or just go straight to Izabal, choose a hotel and from there take a little touristic bus to Playa Dorada.
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