Guatemala Beaches

Location:

Iztapa Beach, southern Pacific coast of Guatemala – known for its distinctive volcanic sand and vibrant fishing scene.

Recommended For:

Fishing enthusiasts, photographers, wildlife lovers, and travelers curious to explore a less conventional, yet strikingly scenic, Central American beach.

What I Love: ♥

The unique dark volcanic sand, the constant motion of sailboats on the horizon, and the opportunities to spot whales or reel in a big catch on a guided tour.

• Photograph the beach’s dramatic landscape—its grainy black sand and vibrant sea make for standout vacation photos and selfies.
• Charter a boat for deep-sea fishing—this is one of Guatemala’s premier angling destinations.
• Watch for whales and other marine life on eco-friendly tours departing from local marinas.
• Relax on the beach while observing the ever-active bay filled with colorful sailboats and fishing vessels.

Cost:

Beach access is free. Fishing charters and whale-watching tours vary in price depending on the operator and package.

Best time to visit:

November through April for the best weather and fishing conditions. Early mornings offer beautiful lighting for photography and calmer waters for boat tours.

Local tips:

Bring sandals—the dark sand gets hot under the sun. Booking fishing or wildlife tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel months.

Distance:

About 110 km (68 miles) south of Guatemala City—roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive depending on traffic.

How to Get to Iztapa Beach:

Drive or take a private shuttle from Guatemala City via CA-9 and CA-2 highways. Once in Iztapa town, follow signs to the beach or local marina areas.

Location:

El Paredón Beach, southern coast of Guatemala – a Pacific Ocean beach located west of Monterrico and famed for its surf culture.

Recommended For:

Surfers, adventure seekers, and travelers looking for a vibrant, emerging beach scene with strong waves and a laid-back, youthful vibe.

What I Love: ♥

The consistent swells, surf schools welcoming all levels, and the relaxed coastal atmosphere that draws both locals and international wave riders.

• Surf some of Guatemala’s best waves—El Paredón is the country’s top surfing destination.
• Learn from local instructors or enroll in surf school—perfect for beginners ready to catch their first wave.
• Connect with other travelers in a friendly, bohemian setting filled with beachfront hostels and cafés.
• Unwind after a session with sunset views and a hammock nap beneath the palms.

Cost:

Beach access is free. Surfboard rentals, lessons, and accommodations are reasonably priced and widely available in the village.

Best time to visit:

April through November offers the best surf conditions, with peak wave activity during the rainy season. Dry season (December to March) is calmer and ideal for learners.

Local tips:

Stay hydrated—temperatures can soar. Book surf lessons in advance during weekends and holidays. The current can be strong, so beginners should always go out with a guide.

Distance:

Around 130 km (81 miles) southwest of Guatemala City—about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive by car or shuttle.

How to Get to El Paredón:

Drive or book a tourist shuttle from Antigua or Guatemala City via Escuintla. The road to the beach is well-traveled and increasingly popular with both locals and tourists.

Romantic Guatemala Beaches:

Location:

Livingston Beach, Caribbean coast of Guatemala – accessible only by boat and located at the mouth of the Río Dulce.

Recommended For:

Backpackers, culture seekers, and travelers wanting to experience a blend of Garifuna heritage, relaxed beach vibes, and authentic Caribbean charm.

What I Love: ♥

The palm-lined shoreline, rich cultural atmosphere, and the friendly, welcoming vibe of a town that feels worlds apart from the rest of Guatemala.

• Relax under swaying palms on soft Caribbean sands, far from the Pacific surf crowd.
• Wander the town of Livingston, where Garifuna, Afro-Caribbean, and Mayan cultures meet in colorful harmony.
• Dine on local specialties like tapado (seafood coconut stew) and enjoy cold drinks at beachside eateries.
• Connect with fellow travelers—Livingston is a favorite among backpackers seeking off-the-beaten-path beach experiences.

Cost:

Beach access is free. Food, drinks, and accommodations are affordably priced for budget-conscious travelers.

Best time to visit:

January to May for dry, sunny days. Avoid the rainiest months (September and October) if you prefer dry beach lounging.

Local tips:

Livingston is only reachable by boat—from Puerto Barrios or Río Dulce. Be sure to explore nearby natural attractions like Seven Altars waterfalls and Playa Blanca.

Distance:

Approximately 300 km (186 miles) northeast of Guatemala City, including boat transfer—expect a full day of travel.

How to Get to Livingston Beach:

Travel by land to Puerto Barrios or Río Dulce, then board a boat to Livingston. The town is pedestrian-friendly, with easy beach access and welcoming locals.

Location:

Playa Tilapa, northern Pacific coast of Guatemala – near the Mexican border in the department of San Marcos, offering a peaceful alternative to more developed beaches.

Recommended For:

Surfers, couples, and off-the-beaten-path travelers looking for a quiet, scenic beach experience far from crowds and commercialization.

What I Love: ♥

The balance between strong waves for surfing and peaceful corners for reflection, along with stunning sunsets and a truly tranquil, untouched atmosphere.

• Surf on reliable Pacific swells—Playa Tilapa rivals El Paredón as one of Guatemala’s best surfing beaches.
• Stroll hand-in-hand on quiet sands—ideal for couples seeking solitude and romance by the sea.
• Relax with a view—this is a great place to simply sit, watch the waves, and enjoy the natural beauty.
• Watch unforgettable sunsets over the ocean—bring your camera for golden-hour magic.

Cost:

Free to access. There are limited services and no major beach clubs, so visitors often bring their own food, drink, and surf gear.

Best time to visit:

December to April for the driest weather and the most comfortable beach-going conditions. Early evenings are perfect for sunset views.

Local tips:

Accommodations and restaurants are limited—consider staying in nearby villages or bringing a daypack with supplies. The beach is remote, so check road conditions ahead of time if driving.

Distance:

Approximately 280 km (174 miles) west of Guatemala City—expect a 5 to 6-hour journey by car due to rural access routes.

How to Get to Playa Tilapa:

Drive or arrange transport from Guatemala City or Quetzaltenango. The last stretch includes rural roads; a 4WD vehicle is recommended. The beach is near Tilapa village, close to the Mexican border.

Family Guatemala Beaches:

Location:

Monterrico Beach, Pacific coast of Guatemala – located in the department of Santa Rosa, just a few hours south of Guatemala City.

Recommended For:

Sunbathers, weekend travelers, and beach lovers of all kinds—especially those looking for easy access to a popular coastal destination with local flavor.

What I Love: ♥

The volcanic black sand, lively beach culture on weekends, and peaceful midweek atmosphere that offers something for both partygoers and solitude seekers.

• Bask in the Guatemalan sun—Monterrico is ideal for traditional beachgoers who love to lounge and soak up the rays.
• Swim with caution—waves can be strong, and there are no lifeguards, so stay close to shore unless you’re a confident swimmer.
• Experience the festive local scene on weekends, when the beach comes alive with music, families, and street food vendors.
• Unwind midweek when crowds disappear and the beach becomes a quiet retreat for solo travelers or couples.

Cost:

Free beach access. Local restaurants, hotels, and vendors offer food, drinks, and accommodations at various price points.

Best time to visit:

November through April for dry, sunny weather. Visit during the week for peace and quiet, or on weekends for a more social and festive vibe.

Local tips:

Wear sandals—the dark volcanic sand heats up quickly. Avoid swimming too far from shore, and bring plenty of water and sunscreen for long stays.

Distance:

About 125 km (78 miles) south of Guatemala City—roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive by car or shuttle.

How to Get to Monterrico Beach:

Travel by car or book a tourist shuttle from Guatemala City or Antigua. The drive includes a scenic ferry crossing near the town of Taxisco, adding a local touch to your journey.

Location:

Champerico Beach, southwestern coast of Guatemala – located in the department of Retalhuleu, known for its rustic charm and historic pier.

Recommended For:

Cultural travelers, photographers, and visitors looking for a beach with local character and a peaceful atmosphere away from major tourist routes.

What I Love: ♥

The simple yet iconic wooden pier, the friendly community vibe, and the opportunity to observe authentic Guatemalan coastal life in a tranquil seaside town.

• Walk along Champerico’s wooden pier—an enduring landmark offering ocean views and people-watching.
• Experience local life—this beach is a favorite gathering place for nearby towns and villages, especially on weekends.
• Capture memorable photos of the sun setting behind the pier—a picturesque backdrop for photographers.
• Relax on a quiet beach with minimal commercialization and a focus on natural beauty and local traditions.

Cost:

Free to access. Local vendors and small eateries offer affordable food and refreshments near the beach and pier.

Best time to visit:

November through April for pleasant weather and lower humidity. Late afternoon is ideal for a stroll along the pier and sunset views.

Local tips:

Bring your own seating or blanket if you plan to stay a while—facilities are limited. Explore nearby town markets for local eats and handmade goods.

Distance:

Around 220 km (137 miles) southwest of Guatemala City—about a 4.5-hour drive by car, depending on traffic and road conditions.

How to Get to Champerico Beach:

Drive or take a local bus from Guatemala City or Retalhuleu. Follow signs to Champerico town, where the beach and pier are easily accessible by foot from the town center.

Unique Guatemala Beaches:

Location:

Puerto San José Beach, Pacific Coast of Guatemala – located in the department of Escuintla, featuring a lively city backdrop and oceanfront charm.

Recommended For:

Adventure travelers, water sports lovers, and visitors seeking a mix of beach time and urban convenience with access to tours, nightlife, and shopping.

What I Love: ♥

The combination of city amenities and coastal adventure, with opportunities for deep sea fishing, whale-watching, and relaxing on a well-developed stretch of beach.

• Explore a vibrant coastal city with restaurants, nightlife, and shopping just steps from the shore.
• Venture out on deep sea fishing charters or reserve a whale-watching tour for a chance to spot marine life.
• Relax with wide ocean views and enjoy local seafood dishes at beachfront cafés.
• Stay for a few days to fully experience both the city culture and the natural beauty of the coastline.

Cost:

Free to access. Tour prices for whale-watching and fishing excursions vary by provider. Accommodations are available across a wide price range in the city.

Best time to visit:

December through April for clear weather and optimal conditions for marine excursions. Weekdays are generally quieter, while weekends bring local crowds and nightlife energy.

Local tips:

Reserve fishing or whale-watching tours in advance, especially during holidays. Try the local seafood and check out the lively evening atmosphere along the beach promenade.

Distance:

Approximately 110 km (68 miles) south of Guatemala City—about a 2-hour drive via the CA-9 highway.

How to Get to Puerto San José Beach:

Drive or take a bus from Guatemala City directly to Puerto San José. Once in the city, the beach is easy to reach on foot or by taxi from most hotels and transport hubs.

Guatemala is home to some of Central America's most mind-blowing beaches.

The country is also home to many rainforests and historic Mayan temples, making it a fascinating place to explore, but if you just want to kick back and relax, Guatemala's beaches will be perfect for you.

Lots of wildlife can be seen along the Guatemalan coastline and there are great beaches to be found on both the Pacific and Caribbean sides of the country.