EL PAREDON, GUATEMALA
Guatemala offers an unforgettable journey beyond the usual, where lush jungles, ancient temples, and vibrant traditions invite you to explore a country steeped in history and natural beauty, away from the crowds. Check out our "FULL Travel Guide" here.
WHERE IS EL PAREDON?
Nestled on Guatemala's Pacific coast, El Paredón is one of the country’s most hidden gems and a must-visit for any Guatemala itinerary. Just a 2-3 hour drive from Guatemala City or Antigua, this tranquil seaside village is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, from its black-sand beaches to the lush mangroves of the nearby Sipacate-Naranjo National Park. Despite its growing popularity, El Paredon retains its off-the-beaten-path charm, offering visitors a peaceful escape, world-class surfing, and an authentic connection to local culture. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply looking to unwind, El Paredon is a destination that should definitely not be missed. During our time in Guatemala, we fell head over heels for the quirky charm of El Paredon. The tiny coastal village exudes a “rough and ready” vibe, with its unpaved streets, rustic thatched-roof lodgings, and laid-back atmosphere. Yet, it’s exactly this unpolished authenticity that makes El Paredón so endearing. Life moves at its own pace here—locals greet you with warm smiles, surfboards line the beaches, and the sound of the waves creates a constant backdrop.
WHY SHOULD YOU VISIT EL PAREDON?
Nestled on Guatemala's Pacific coast, El Paredón is one of the country’s most hidden gems and a must-visit for any Guatemala itinerary. Just a 2-3 hour drive from Guatemala City or Antigua, this tranquil seaside village is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, from its black-sand beaches to the lush mangroves of the nearby Sipacate-Naranjo National Park. Despite its growing popularity, El Paredon retains its off-the-beaten-path charm, offering visitors a peaceful escape, world-class surfing, and an authentic connection to local culture. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or simply looking to unwind, El Paredon is a destination that should definitely not be missed. During our time in Guatemala, we fell head over heels for the quirky charm of El Paredon. The tiny coastal village exudes a “rough and ready” vibe, with its unpaved streets, rustic thatched-roof lodgings, and laid-back atmosphere. Yet, it’s exactly this unpolished authenticity that makes El Paredón so endearing. Life moves at its own pace here—locals greet you with warm smiles, surfboards line the beaches, and the sound of the waves creates a constant backdrop.
WHEN SHOULD YOU VISIT EL PAREDON?
The best time to visit El Paredon depends on what you're looking for. For ideal weather, plan your trip during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, you’ll enjoy sunny skies and warm temperatures perfect for surfing, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the mangroves. If you’re a surfer, the wet season, from May to October, is also a great option as the waves are typically bigger and more consistent—though you should expect occasional heavy rain, especially in the afternoons. Additionally, visiting between September and December offers the chance to witness or participate in sea turtle conservation efforts, as it’s hatching season. No matter when you visit, El Paredon’s relaxed vibe and natural beauty make it an unforgettable destination year-round.
HOW LONG SHOULD YOU SPEND IN EL PAREDON?
While the length of your stay depends on your travel style, we believe that around three to four days is just right. This gives you enough time to soak up the town’s peaceful vibe, enjoy the stunning black-sand beaches, and catch some waves on the Pacific’s renowned surf breaks. A few days also allow for exploring the mangrove-lined estuaries by kayak or paddle board and indulging in the local seafood at beachside restaurants. We could have easily spent the week here, so we would definitely recommend giving yourself some extra time if you have the time.
HOW TO GET TO EL PAREDON
Getting to El Paredon from Antigua Guatemala is relatively straightforward and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours by road. Here are the most common options:
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Private Shuttle: The easiest and most convenient way is to book a private shuttle through a tour operator or your accommodation in Antigua. Shuttles typically offer door-to-door service, making the journey hassle-free.
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Shared Shuttle: For a budget-friendly option, shared shuttles are also available. These usually leave at set times and can be booked in advance at hostels or travel agencies in Antigua.
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Private Car: If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car is another option. From Antigua, take the road to Escuintla, then follow signs toward Sipacate. From Sipacate, El Paredon is just a short drive away. Be prepared for some unpaved roads near the village.
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Public Bus (“Chicken Bus”): For an adventurous and inexpensive experience, you can take local buses. From Antigua, head to Escuintla, then transfer to another bus toward Sipacate. From Sipacate, you may need a tuk-tuk or moto-taxi to reach El Paredon.
We opted for a shared shuttle bus which we arranged through our accommodation. We were picked up in the main square and it was hassle free and very easy to do.
El Paredon offers plenty of activities to easily fill a few unforgettable days. Whether it's a few days relaxing on the beach or by the pool, or a few days filled with adventurous activities, El Paredon has you covered. Some of the best things to do in El Paredon are:
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🏄🏼♂️ Surf the waves: Catch consistent, world-class waves suitable for all skill levels, with lessons and board rentals available.
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🌞 Enjoy the amazing sunsets: Unwind on the black volcanic sand beaches while soaking up the tranquil atmosphere. Enjoy the famous El Paredon sunrise and sunset which you can witness from the exact same spot on the beach.
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🛶 Boat tours of the nearby mangroves: Paddle board or kayak through the mangroves to explore diverse wildlife, including exotic birds and sea turtles. You can easily book tours when you arrive in El Paredon.
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🧘♀️ Yoga: Join yoga sessions on the beach to rejuvenate your body and mind.
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🦐 Local Seafood: Take a Guatemalan cooking class or indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants. We would highly recommend heading to Cocori Lodge and trying one of their shrimp burgers.
El Paredon offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to surfers, beach lovers, and travellers seeking a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path experience. You’ll find a mix of beachfront hostels, boutique hotels, eco-lodges, and charming guesthouses, many of which embrace the natural beauty of the area with eco-friendly practices. Whether you're staying in a cozy hammock at a surf camp, enjoying the comfort of a boutique hotel with a pool, or opting for a more luxurious beachfront villa, El Paredón offers something for every type of traveller. Many accommodations in the area also offer easy access to the surf breaks, making it a popular choice for those looking to catch some waves. The atmosphere is laid-back, with most properties offering a tranquil retreat close to the beach, perfect for enjoying the stunning sunsets, swimming, or simply relaxing in the hammock with a cocktail in hand.
SURF HOUSE EL PAREDON
During our time in El Paredon we stayed at Surf House El Paredon and we could not recommend it enough. They have several different accommodation types, ranging from a regular hostel style dorm, to beach from bungalows suspended overlooking the sea. Just steps from the hotel, the wide, black-sand beach is ideal for relaxing, surfing, or taking in the stunning sunsets. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect place to unwind, whether you're lounging under a palm tree, enjoying the view, or taking a refreshing dip in the warm ocean.
WHERE TO VISIT AFTER EL PAREDON
After El Paredon, we would highly recommend visiting Lake Atitlan. For more information on how to travel Guatemala, you can check out our "ULTIMATE guide to Guatemala".
One of our highlights of our time in Guatemala, traveling off the beaten path to El Paredon on the coast of Guatemala is like stepping into a hidden paradise. This tranquil beach town, far from the typical tourist crowds, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you're surfing the Pacific waves, strolling along the black-sand beach, or enjoying the laid-back vibe of the local surf lodges, El Paredón feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle. The unspoiled landscape, warm hospitality, and stunning sunsets make it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic, off-the-radar experience
