The community of Lagunita, nestled on the Río Dulce in El Salvador, is a pleasant sanctuary from the bustle of Guatemala's larger cities.  Only half an hour from Livingston and Rio Dulce, you'll feel a world away whether you come for a meal, a tour, or to stay a few days.

 The Flowas café is housed in a charming building right on the beach with two circular thatched roofs.  The cuisine is based on the simple and creative combination of fresh prime products: fish, seafood, white meat, fresh fruit and vegetables, olive oil, garlic, seasoning herbs. Homemade jam, yogurt and bakeries. They offer pastas, salads, nachos, quesadillas, and burgers with delicious smoothies and fresh fruit juices to drink.

Rasta Mesa is a cultural center, restaurant, and bar with live Garifuna music every night.  They offer delicious food, cooking classes, and a chance to experience local culture in an authentic way. 

Maria is originally from Mexico but has lived all over the world, from France to Calcutta.  She can cook up just about anything, and Tilonglingo is located at the end of the main street with a beautiful view of the sea.  The menu is varied and features food from 12 countries, including somosas from India, Burritos from Mexico, and French crepes!  She also makes iced chai lattes and has some delicious breakfasts. 

Nestled in a quiet garden along the river, the restaurant serves up delicious local specialties in a relaxing environment.  They have a real espresso maker and some of the best coffee in town, and are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  The prices are reasonable and the food is all made with fresh, local ingredients and artfully prepared.  It is best to call ahead to make a reservation so they can be prepared for your visit, especially during the low season. 

Located on the main road between the Mayan ruins of Quirigua and Puerto Barrios, the restaurant is set within a lush forest and is the ideal place to stop for a quiet, enjoyable lunch.  The food is eclectic and delicious, and features both typical Guatemalan dishes and international food. 

Salvador Gaviota is a private beach which is part of the Salvador Gaviota hotel and by far the best beach in Livingston.  The white sand beach has a large pier with a little thatched roof full of hammocks at the end, perfect for wiling away an afternoon with a beer in your hand.  There is a full-service restaurant and clean bathrooms on site, along with several lounge chairs to soak up the sun (but be wary of the strong UV rays).   

Located right on the water in a beautiful, colonial-style wooden building, Buga Mama offers breathtaking views of the river, delicious and eclectic food, and the chance to contribute to a very worthy cause. All the workers at Buga Mama are students at a local, community-run eco-tourism school, and by eating at the restaurant you are directly contributing to the Ak’Tenamit organization.