Where Is The Best Surfing in Guatemala?
There is so much to discover in Guatemala — the beauty of nature, a vibrant and colourful culture, history through archaeology, and so much more. But, did you know that Guatemala is also home to a burgeoning surf scene?...
Surf getaway destinations
Guatemala doesn't have a wealth of surf spots, but a surf scene is emerging at the Pacific Coast village of Sipacate. Iztapa and Monterrico also have good breaks.
When you want a break from the waves, but aren't ready to leave the sun and sand, there are plenty of Guatemalan beaches to choose from — some of which are frequented by locals. You may find the dry season (November to early May) to be the best time to visit Guatemala — especially if outdoor adventures are at the top of your to-do list, but keep in mind that the Caribbean coast can see rain throughout the year.
Prepping for your surf getaway
As with most forms of international travel, the easiest way to get to Guatemala is going to be by air, but if you're so inclined, the actual voyage can be part of your adventure if you want to enter the country by land or sea.
Guatemalan entry requirements are fairly simple, and require little more than a passport valid for 3-6 months past your intended length of stay (pending your country of origin), and proof of onward travel.
The most important things you can bring with you to Guatemala are insect repellant and sunglasses, but since you'll likely be planning all kinds of adventures across multiple terrains, we recommend consulting our "What Should I Bring to Guatemala?" page.
Related Questions
- Where Is The Best Fishing In Guatemala?
- Where Are The Nicest Beaches in Guatemala?
- Is Guatemala Family Friendly?
- When Is The Best Time To Go To Guatemala?
- What Are the Top Activities in Guatemala?
Guatemala Beaches
Guatemala's beaches aren't the main reason most travellers visit the country, but that doesn't mean they aren't worth visiting! Don't miss out on the beaches in Guatemala, because the nation's shoreline boasts Pacific and Caribbean coasts. If you're into sport fishing, head to Puerto Quetzal — Guatemala is the "Sailfish Capital of The World!" Meanwhile, in Puerto San José you can do some excellent marine mammal observation. Looking for beachside adventures that will keep you on dry land, the Pacific Coast has pleasant, nearly deserted black-sand beaches around Monterrico and Hawaii. On the Caribbean side, there are white-sand beaches just outside Lívingston, including Playa Blanca. Most of Guatemala’s beaches are uncrowded, and surfing is possible in some locations. Bottom line: wherever you decide to visit, you can be certain that these are the best beaches in Guatemala.
Cultural Tours and Activities in Guatemala
With its spectacular ruins, fantastic museums, and authentic Mayan villages, Guatemala isn’t lacking for culture. Cultural tours give travelers intimate access to some the country’s best cultural attractions. During one of these tours, you might tour a Mayan marketplace, or visit a traditional coffee farm. Knowledgeable guides lead the tours, answering questions and providing information as you explore the site.
What Should I Bring To Guatemala?
What you bring to Guatemala will largely depend on what you want to do. If you’re going to be spending time in the outdoors – be it hiking in the forest or climbing volcanoes – you’ll need closed-toed shoes, long-sleeved shirts, a hat, socks, sunglasses, insect repellent, sunscreen, water bottle, and a flashlight. If you’re going to be visiting areas where you’ll be swimming, bring a swimsuit, towel, and sandals. Travelers planning to visit Mayan ruins will also want to have good, comfortable footwear — this makes it easier to explore the sites, which often have uneven ground.
Getting to Guatemala
The easiest way to get to Guatemala is by air. The country has remodeled its two international airports and is catering to carriers from the U.S. and Asia. Guatemala can also be entered by land or sea.
Guatemala Entry Requirements
United States citizens traveling to Guatemala will need a U.S. passport valid for at least six months past their intended length of stay. A ticket documenting onward or return travel is also needed. U.S. citizens can stay in Guatemala for up to 90 days without having a visa.
When Is The Best Time To Go To Guatemala?
Anytime is a great time to visit Guatemala! There are all kinds of places to explore and things to do any season — rain or shine.
Nature Tours and Activities in Guatemala
Guatemala has astounding outdoor areas — the landscape here includes tall volcanoes, dense jungles, huge lakes and cascading waterfalls, as well as all the creatures that live within these various habitats. Nature tours allow travelers to explore these incredible places. The tours include bird watching expeditions, hikes with naturalist guides, horseback riding, night walks, and marine turtle nesting trips.
Archeological Tours in Guatemala
Guatemala is peppered with Mayan ruins and archeological sites. Tours of these sites exposes travelers to the ancient Mayan culture that flourished in Guatemala prior to the arrival of the Spanish. On a visit to one of these sites, you’ll learn about Mayan traditions, beliefs, lifestyles, and power structures. The tours are fun and provide travelers with an up-close look at some of Central America’s most impressive archeological finds.
Pacific Slope
The Pacific Slope has long been passed over by travelers for other Guatemalan destinations, as it lacks the pristine white-sand beaches that border other Central American countries. In recent years, however, interest in this region has been building. Puerto Quetzal now sees regular arrivals of cruise ships (the passengers dock and take day-trips inland), and the coastal town of Iztapa is becoming known as the sailfishing capital of the world.
Iztapa
Iztapa is a small port town along Guatemala’s Pacific coast that’s well known for sailfishing. The fishing here truly is incredible—it’s common to haul in 15-20 Pacific sailfish each day. The surfing is good too, and there isn’t much competition for waves.
Monterrico
Monterrico is a tranquil town along Guatemala’s Pacific coast. This formerly sleeping fishing village is becoming increasingly popular with travelers, many of whom come here to see nesting sea turtles.
