El Paredón, Guatemala: A Hidden Gem on the Pacific Coast

Introduction

This small up-and-coming surf town is becoming a real hotspot for savvy travellers. El Paredon, best known for its surf and stunning beaches, is becoming increasingly popular and is now a must-have on your Guatemala itinerary.

Now, I hadn’t actually planned on visiting El Paredon. I had never even heard of it! But after my gruelling 2-day Mount Acatenango hike, I wanted somewhere to relax, catch a tan and soak in the surf vibes. After a little bit of research, I set my sights on El Paredon; oh my, was I in for a treat?

El Paredon doesn’t get anywhere near enough attention. This place is truly special and is something I plan to visit more and more over the years. There is a great selection of hotels in El Paredon, plenty of good restaurants and some amazing Hostels too.

Let’s jump into it!

Geographical Setting

El Paredon is a coastal village found on the Pacific coast of Guatemala. It is part of Sipacate-Naranjo National Park.

Proximity to Major Cities:

El Paredon is about a two-hour drive southwest of Antigua and around three hours from Guatemala City, making it pretty accessible for tourists travelling from both major cities.

Natural Features:

Beaches: El Paredon is known for its black sandy volcanic beach which stretches the length of El Paredon and more. The beach is really chilled out and has amazing surf.

Mangrove Ecosystem: The town is surrounded by mangrove forests that are part of the Sipacate-Naranjo National Park.

Rivers and Waterways: El Paredon sits near the mouth of several rivers that flow into the Pacific Ocean. These rivers are great for kayaking or paddleboarding.

Cultural Significance

Traditional Fishing: Fishing is deeply rooted in El Paredon’s history. Local fishermen have adopted different methods within their lineage. Fishing tours offer travellers learning opportunities on these traditional methods.

Festivals and Celebrations: There are some amazing local festivals in El Paredon where they play great music, dance all day, and serve up traditional foods. These offer insight into the colourful cultural tapestry of this region and allow visitors to embrace local traditions.

Art and Handcrafts: El Paredon has some great artisanal work, like woven goods and handmade jewellery. Organisations such as La Choza Chula assist local artisans by providing them with selling platforms for their crafts and facilitating workshops where visitors acquire these skills.

Food: Traditional Guatemalan food is a massive part of the culture of El Paredon. Cooking classes are often offered in local homes; this is a really unique experience, and you can try traditional foods like yummy tacos and empanadas.

Climate: Tropical Climate- El Paredon has a tropical savanna climate with wet and dry seasons. The wet season lasts from May to October and has heavy rains and high humidity. The dry season runs from November to April; these months have more stable weather conditions.

Local Economy

El Paredon’s Local economy is supported by:

Tourism: El Paredon is Known for its surfing spots and eco-tourism activities, including mangrove wakeboarding and turtle conservation, tourism is the primary economic driver.

Fishing: Traditional fishermen provide fresh seafood to local markets and restaurants. There is also the option for travellers to go on fishing tours, which offers extra income.

Agriculture: Small-scale farming of crops like beans and tropical fruits sustains the local economy.

Social Enterprises: Organisations like La Choza Chula help the economy through tours, cooking classes, and craft workshops, supporting local artisans and providing jobs

These sectors collectively sustain and grow El Paredon’s local economy.

EL Paredon Guatemala Weather

In June, El Paredon has warm, humid weather with temperatures typically ranging from 79°F (26°C) to 85°F (30°C). It’s a rainy month, with about 4.4 inches of rainfall spread over approximately 6 days (Where And When). Despite the rain, there are around 13 hours of daylight daily.

Expect muggy conditions with humidity levels around 78%. Winds are generally mild, averaging 8.4 mph (13.6 kph). This climate is ideal for surfing, kayaking, and exploring mangroves, but be ready for occasional showers, so pack rain gear accordingly.

Things To Know Before You Go To El Paredon

Limited ATM Access

There is only one ATM in El Paredon. It is located in the Super24 supermarket. It isn’t very reliable and often doesn’t have money for weeks. I suggest you take enough cash with you to cover all expenses associated with your trip, just to be on the safe side.

Awful WiFi

The WiFi in El Paredon is pretty terrible. While most accommodations offer WiFi, the speeds are pretty slow. Digital nomads might manage some work, but a full workload might be challenging. I recommend staying at the bigger hostels like Cocori to have the best chance of some solid WiFi.

Bug Spray is Essential

Mosquitoes are rife in El Paredon. Airbnbs or accommodation may be safe. Outdoors, you are going to get eaten alive. Lather up with bug spray before the sun sets.

Limited Grocery Options:

El Paredon only has a small supermarket and a few other spots to buy groceries; options are limited. However, the choice of restaurants and Hostels is pretty amazing. I had some great meals here!

Swimming Safety

The most important thing to know! The currents and waves in El Paredon are some of the strongest I have experienced. There are no lifeguards, either! Only surf if you are a strong swimmer and always have somebody looking out for you.

Where to Stay in El Paredon, Guatemala

5 Best Hotels in El Paredon, Guatemala

1. Driftwood Surf Hostel

One of the most popular hostels in El Paredon is the Driftwood Surf Hostel. This beachfront hostel has a fun, social vibe that’s infectious whether you’re in a dorm or a private room. Plus, Driftwood organises conservation projects, like daily baby turtle releases from September to December. Make sure you say hi to the resident pig, Potato!

2. Cocori Lodge

My personal favourite is Cocori Lodge. It offers a range of accommodations, from standard dorms and bungalows to some pretty cool options like open-air bungalows, a two-story tiny house, or even a bus! Cocori is a hostel, surf camp, bar, and restaurant all rolled into one. We didn’t stay here, but we enjoyed the reasonably priced drinks at their restaurant bar. It’s one of the most versatile hostels in El Paredon.

3. Swell Hotel

Swell Hotel is a fantastic mid-tier option, blending rustic charm with comfort. It doesn’t offer dorm beds, but its various accommodation types under traditional thatch palm roofs are perfect for Instagram photos. Ideal for those seeking a stylish and comfy stay, even though it’s not one of the typical hostels in El Paredon.

4. Mellow Hostel

Mellow Hostel is great if you enjoy meeting new people. Its atmosphere makes it easy to mingle in common areas near the restaurant and pool. The staff are so friendly, and the rooms are clean and well-kept. Mellow offers tipi-style double rooms, double suites, and shared rooms with shared bathrooms. They also provide tours, yoga sessions, surf lessons, and surfboard rentals. Definitely one of the most sociable hostels in El Paredon.

5. Ka’ana Surf

Ka’ana Surf combines comfort, elegance, and great service, making it a place you won’t want to leave. The rooms are really spacious and have luxurious beds and even hot showers! This place has a large pool, and the master suite features a private pool on the terrace. The breakfast menu is varied, and the dinner menu focuses on seafood. Surf lessons and board rentals are also available. While not one of the traditional hostels in El Paredon, it offers a luxurious stay.

Where to Eat in El Paredon, Guatemala

5 Best Restaurants In El Paredon, Guatemala

1. Chef in Flip Flops

I didn’t actually manage to visit, but I heard amazing things! Make sure you line up before 6 PM to get a seat, as it fills up quickly. The menu changes weekly and offers meat, fish, and veggie options to suit all tastes. While it might not be the most budget-friendly, the food is simply amazing and well worth it.

2. Banana Surf

Banana Surf is a bit of everything – a bar, restaurant, cafe, and even a small climbing gym. Its relaxed vibe and delicious drinks make it one of the best places to eat in El Paredon. Plus, it’s a great spot to get some work done with its WiFi. The coffee here is top-notch, and the bagels are divine.

3. Be Good and Cafe

For a romantic dinner, head to Be Good and Cafe. This cosy spot serves up French cuisine and is perfect for a special night out. The menu changes daily, with dishes crafted with care. It’s the only place in El Paredon where you can enjoy a decent espresso martini, and their desserts are a must-try.

4. Olivia Artisan Cuisine

Pizza lovers rejoice! Olivia Artisan Cuisine, located in the Buena Vista Surf complex, is the most authentic pizzeria in El Paredon. They make their pizzas with fresh ingredients and handmade dough. You can dine in or take away, making it perfect for a relaxed meal at your hotel or on the beach.

5. Divino Ceviche

Divino Ceviche offers a wide variety of fresh seafood, specialising in ceviche. The portions are generous and ideal for sharing. Their spicy sauces are a treat, but if you prefer something milder, try the coconut milk sauce. The staff are locals, so you get a truly traditional Guatemalan experience with every dish.

Where To Party In El Paredon

We already have a great article written up on the best spots to party in El Paredon, Guatemala! You are slightly limited in choice, but you can still find a great night out. Head over to our other article if you want to read about these places in a bit more detail and find out the best days to visit!

• Cocori Lodge – Most fun!
• Mellow Hostel – Best vibes
• Driftwood Surfers Hostel – Best Music
• Bierstube – Great beer

5 Best Things To Do in El Paredon, Guatemala

1. Take a Booze Cruise

El Paredon might be a laid-back town, but it surprisingly offers a decent nightlife. One of the best ways to experience this is by joining a booze cruise! Every Saturday, The Black Pearl hosts an all-you-can-drink booze cruise for just 225 Q. It’s a fantastic way to party among the mangroves as the sun sets, combining fun, drinks, and beautiful natural scenery.

2. Do Some Yoga

One of my favourite activities when we’re in a chill destination is yoga. It’s an excellent way to get some good exercise while travelling. And what could be better than doing yoga to the natural soundtrack of crashing waves?

Both Swell Hotel and Cocori Lodge offer yoga classes every morning, and your accommodation might have something on offer, too. If you prefer a solo session, head over to the beach at sunrise for a peaceful yoga experience.

3. Take a Walk on the Endless Beach

The volcanic beach in El Paredon, Guatemala, feels like it stretches on forever. Despite trying to find out exactly how long it is, I never saw an end in sight, and no one could tell me either. So, it’s pretty long!

4. Visiting a Salt Farm and Turtle Sanctuary

One of the best activities in El Paredon is the afternoon tour of a salt farm and turtle sanctuary. The boat tour navigates through hidden mangrove canals to a sea turtle sanctuary, where you can see turtles year-round. A local guide explains the conservation efforts.

On the way back, you’ll visit a salt farm to learn about the extraction process, providing insight into the local economy. Book this tour through La Choza Chula, with prices ranging from 115 GTQ (around 15 USD) to 185 GTQ (23 USD), depending on the group size.

5. Taking a Gastronomic Tour in El Paredon

A 2-hour gastronomic tour lets you visit a local family’s home and cook traditional dishes together. You’ll prepare and enjoy tamales, corn tortillas, empanadas, and meat with Guatemalan spices influenced by four Mayan ethnic groups. Book this tasty cultural experience through La Choza Chula for just 90 GTQ (11 USD). Cook, eat, and savour the flavours like a local.

Read More >> Things To Do in El Paredon, Guatemala: Our Top 5 – Talkers Travels

FAQs

1. Where Is El Paredón Located?

El Paredon is a small, tranquil beach town situated on the Pacific coast of Guatemala in the Escuintla department. The city is known for its stunning black sand beaches and fantastic surfing conditions. It is nestled within the Sipacate-Naranjo National Park, which is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and mangrove ecosystems. The town is approximately a two-hour drive southwest of Antigua and around three hours from Guatemala City.

2. How Do I Get to El Paredón?

Getting to El Paredon by Chicken Bus 🚍

Important: Always keep an eye on your belongings while travelling.

– From Guatemala City:

• Take the Transpacifico Sur chicken bus from the Centra-Sur bus terminal, also known as CENMA
• The bus departs daily at 3:30 PM from stop No. 39.
• A one-way ticket costs 35 GTQ (4.60 USD), and the journey takes about 4 hours due to multiple stops.
• Arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes early to ensure you find the bus on time. The stop number might change, so stay alert and avoid carrying valuables.

– From Antigua:

• From the bus terminal in Antigua, take a chicken bus to Escuintla for 20 GTQ (2.50 USD). Buses leave every 30 minutes starting at 5:00 AM.
• At Terminal Sur in Escuintla, take another chicken bus to Sipacate, which costs 35 GTQ (4.60 USD) and departs every hour.
• From Sipacate, take a tuk-tuk to the dock of El Escondite for 5 GTQ (0.60 USD).
• Finally, take a boat to the village of El Paredon for another 5 GTQ (0.60 USD).

Getting to El Paredon by Car 🚘

– From Guatemala City:

• • The drive is approximately 2.5 hours, covering 130 km (80 mi) on a relatively well-maintained road.

Option 1: Take the CA-9 highway south, then CA-9A, exit to Juan Gaviota Boulevard, and finally onto RD-Escuela 38. Refer to Google Maps for directions.
Option 2: Take the CA-9 highway south, then CA-2 towards Gomera and Sipacate. At Sipacate, you’ll need to take a ferry to cross the channel, costing 85 GTQ (10.60 USD) one way. Refer to Google Maps for directions.

I recommend option 1 as it is faster and does not require ferry tickets. However, note that there is a 15 GTQ (2 USD) toll fee at kilometre 55.

– From Antigua:

• Take the RN-14 highway southbound for 33 kilometres (20 miles), then exit towards Escuintla.
• Merge onto CA-9, then CA-9A highways, and at kilometre 101, take the detour to Juan Gaviota Boulevard and RD-Escuela 38. Refer to Google Maps for directions.

Getting to El Paredon by Shuttle 🚖

– From Guatemala City:

• Shuttles depart daily to El Paredon at 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM. The journey takes 4 hours or more, with a long stop in Antigua, Guatemala. There are no direct shuttles from Guatemala City.
• I suggest booking the shuttle through NeWAY Tours or on GuateGo.com.

For the safest and quickest option, I recommend travelling by car. Renting a car in Guatemala is advisable due to long waiting times for connections and the safety concerns of chicken buses.

– From Antigua:

• Getting to El Paredon from Antigua is straightforward. There are numerous small transport agencies around the city.
• These agencies offer two daily shuttles to El Paredon at 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Be sure to book your seat 24 hours in advance.
• You can also opt for a one-day surf excursion from Antigua, which includes equipment, round-trip transport, surfboard, instructor, brunch, and exclusive access to the facilities at Cocori Lodge, one of the largest hotels in El Paredon.

3. What Is The Best Time To Visit El Paredón?

The best time to visit El Paredon would be in the Guatemala dry season which runs between November and April. During this time, you can expect sunny days with blue skies. The rainy season runs between May and October. If you are visiting in these months, you can expect heavy downpours. Just for reference, I visited El Paredon in June 2023, and it didn’t rain once!

4. What Is The Currency Used In El Paredón, And Are There Atms Available?

The currency used in El Paredón is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). It is advisable to bring cash, as ATMs may be limited in the village. Major credit cards are accepted at some hotels and restaurants, but it’s best to have some money for smaller establishments and local markets.

5. How Safe Is El Paredón For Tourists?

El Paredon is probably the safest spot I visited in Central America, this sleepy surf town sees next to no crime. There is a policy car that patrols up and down the only tarmac road in the village, which can easily be flagged down. El Paredon has one of the lowest crime rates in Guatemala and even throughout Latin America.

6. Is El Paredón a Family-Friendly Destination?

Definitely! Whilst El Paredon, Guatemala, maybe a backpacker’s paradise, it is still a great option for a family holiday. Whether you want to chill by the pool, go mangrove fishing or learn to surf, I promise you there are plenty of family-friendly activities!

7. Is It Worth Visiting El Paredon, Guatemala?

It is absolutely worth visiting El Paredon, Guatemala, this hidden gem is yet to be discovered by the masses and feels so true and authentic. I have actually written a whole article about it >> Is It Worth Visiting El Paredon, Guatemala? – Talkers Travels.

8. Are There Any Health Considerations I Should Be Aware of?

When travelling to El Paredón, ensure you have adequate travel insurance. It’s also advisable to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and protect yourself from mosquitoes. Drink bottled or purified water to avoid waterborne illnesses.