Best beaches to visit in Guatemala: our top picks

Guatemala’s beaches aren’t built up or flashy, but that’s part of what makes them so appealing. On the Pacific side you’ll find long stretches of black sand, strong surf, and turtle nesting sites. Over on the Caribbean the beaches are calmer, with clear water, coral reefs, and a mix of Garifuna and Q’eqchi’ communities nearby. Inland you can even find a few freshwater beaches along the shores of Lake Izabal. If you’re planning a trip to Guatemala, these coastal and lakeside spots are worth considering. This guide covers the best beaches in Guatemala to visit, including how to get there, what to do once you arrive, and when to go for good weather, fewer crowds, or a chance to see wildlife.

1. Playa Las Lisas

Las Lisas is a low-key beach on the Pacific coast with a long stretch of golden sand and calm water that’s good for swimming and a great addition to your Guatemala itinerary. It’s quieter than some of the more popular beaches, which makes it a nice place to unwind. Fishing is a big deal here, and the nearby mangroves are worth exploring—you can take a boat tour and spot birds and other wildlife. 

There are a few small restaurants right by the shore, usually serving whatever was caught that day, and simple places to stay like cabins and family-run hotels. If you're around between August and December, you might get to take part in a turtle release—locals are working to protect nesting areas.

How to get to Las Lisas

From Guatemala City, head south on the CA-9 and then follow the CA-2 toward Taxisco. It’s the same direction you’d take to get to the El Salvador border. The drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. You can also get there by bus to Chiquimulilla, then continue with a local ride to the beach. Some tour companies run day trips or weekend getaways from the city and from Antigua.

When to visit Las Lisas

The dry season runs from November to April, and you’ll usually get clear skies and daytime highs around 82–89°F (28–32°C). It’s quieter during the week, but locals come down on weekends. For turtle season, August to December is your window. Early mornings are best for mangrove tours, and late afternoons are great for watching the sunset.
 

2. Playa El Banco

This beach sits near the town of Taxisco and has dark volcanic sand and strong waves. It’s not well known, so it’s usually quiet, especially during the week. Surfers like it because the waves are consistent and you don’t have to deal with crowds. 

It’s also home to a small conservation station that works on protecting sea turtles—mostly leatherbacks, green turtles, and olive ridleys. 

How to get to Playa El Banco

Drive the CA-2 highway toward the coast, then follow the signs to Taxisco and El Banco. It’s around a 3-hour trip from Guatemala City. The last stretch is unpaved, so a high-clearance vehicle helps—especially if it’s been raining. If you’re taking public transport, get a bus to Taxisco, then arrange a local ride from there. Some surf or eco-tour operators also run trips down this way.

When to visit Playa El Banco

November to April usually has the best weather. For surf, the most consistent waves roll in from March to October. Turtle nesting season happens between August and December, and some days you can see hatchlings being released. It’s pretty quiet overall, and even on weekends, you likely won’t run into many people.
 

3. Monterrico

Monterrico is one of the more well-known beaches in Guatemala, and it draws a mix of locals and international travelers, especially on weekends. The beach has dark sand and a rough Pacific current, so swimming can be tricky, but people come here more for the atmosphere, sunsets, and conservation work. 

It’s part of the Monterrico-Hawaii Nature Reserve, and you can take boat rides through the mangroves to see birds, caimans, and iguanas. There’s also a turtle hatchery in town where you can help release hatchlings during the season. The town itself has a decent range of restaurants and places to stay, so it’s easy to plan a short trip here.

How to get to Monterrico

From Guatemala City or Antigua, take the road toward Escuintla and keep going toward Taxisco and Monterrico. It takes about 2 to 2.5 hours by car. Shared shuttles run from Antigua, and some include a boat ride through the mangroves. Public buses run from the capital to La Avellana, where you can take a short boat ride to town.

When to visit Monterrico

December through April is the dry season, with warm days and less rain. Turtle nesting season is from August to December, and hatchling releases usually happen at night. Weekdays are quieter. If you’re heading to the beach, early morning or late afternoon is best—midday heat can make the black sand tough to walk on. May and November are less busy but can still have decent weather.
 

4. Iztapa

Once Guatemala’s main Pacific port, Iztapa is now known mostly for fishing. The mix of ocean and river currents brings in marlin, sailfish, and dorado—especially in season. Anglers often land multiple sailfish in a day during peak months. If you’re not here to fish, the long black-sand beach is good for walking or just watching the tide roll in. 

The harbor is still active, so you’ll see boats heading in and out all day. Around the port, a few casual seafood places make use of the day’s catch. Nearby mangrove canals are worth checking out too—you can join a boat tour and look for herons, egrets, and sometimes crocodiles.

How to get to Iztapa

From Guatemala City, head south on the CA-9 toward Puerto San José, then follow signs for Iztapa. It’s about 1.5 hours by car. Buses also run regularly from the capital. If you're booking a fishing trip, many companies include transportation. Some travelers also arrive by boat from other beach towns.

When to visit Iztapa

Dry season runs November through April, which is also the easiest time for beach days. For fishing, sailfish season hits its peak between December and March, with marlin showing up more from April through August. If you’re hoping to avoid crowds, weekdays are more laid-back, while weekends get busier with Guatemalan families. Mornings are cooler and better for walking or tours.
 

5. Playa Punta de Manabique

This beach shows a completely different side of Guatemala, right on the Caribbean. It’s part of the Punta de Manabique Wildlife Refuge and surrounded by mangroves, wetlands, and tropical forest. The beach itself has light sand and calm, clear water. You can snorkel straight off the long dock (one of best things to do in Guatemala), where you’ll see coral reefs and plenty of fish. Manatees and dolphins pass through the area too. There’s no development here outside of a few basics, so it feels remote. 

How to get to Playa Punta de Manabique

First, get to Puerto Barrios by bus (5–6 hours) or flight (around 45 minutes) from Guatemala City. From there, it’s about a 45-minute boat ride to the beach. Local tour operators in Puerto Barrios can help you arrange a trip—just plan ahead, since there’s no regular transport to the area.

When to visit Playa Punta de Manabique

February through May is the driest stretch, with calm water that’s ideal for snorkeling or boating. November–December and June–July can also be good times to go, especially with fewer people around. If you're interested in birdwatching, early mornings are best. Sea breezes pick up in the afternoon, which helps with the heat.
 

6. Playa Chechenal

Down near the El Salvador border, Playa Chechenal is a quiet stretch of black-sand beach that feels far from busy tourist areas. The waves here draw in surfers who don’t mind the lack of crowds. 

Cliffs line part of the beach, and sea turtles come ashore to nest. Seabirds often circle offshore looking for fish. There’s not much development—just a few family-run seafood spots and some basic places to stay the night (see our guide to Guatemala accommodation). If you’re looking to be by the ocean without a lot of noise or infrastructure, this is a good place to unwind.

How to get to Playa Chechenal

Drive south from Guatemala City along the CA-2 toward the El Salvador border, then continue on smaller coastal roads. The drive takes about 4 hours. If you’re going during the rainy season, you’ll want a vehicle with 4WD, especially for the last stretch. Public transport is limited, so you’ll likely need a bus to a nearby village and then catch a tuk-tuk or ride the rest of the way. Some adventure tour operators run occasional trips here.

When to visit Playa Chechenal

November to April is typically the driest and easiest time to get there. For surfing, April through October usually brings better waves. The beach stays pretty quiet year-round. Turtle nesting season runs from July to December, and evenings are when you’re most likely to see them. Early mornings and late afternoons are more comfortable for hanging out on the sand—it gets hot fast in the middle of the day, especially with the dark sand.
 

7. Playa La Empalizada (Sipacate)

Playa La Empalizada sits inside the Sipacate-Naranjo National Park and is one of the best places to visit in Guatemala to see the country's wilder coast. The beach is long and covered in dark volcanic sand, with mangrove forests running along the edge. The waves can get pretty strong, which draws surfers, but there are also calmer sections where it’s safe to swim or just hang out. 

One of the most memorable things here is the sea turtle release—you might get the chance to help release hatchlings if you come during nesting season. Behind the beach, you can explore the mangroves by kayak or small boat. You’ll weave through quiet channels filled with birds and other wildlife. A few eco-lodges and small restaurants nearby serve simple meals—mostly seafood—and there are a handful of places to stay if you want to stick around for a night or two.

How to get to Playa La Empalizada

From Guatemala City, take the Pacific Highway (CA-2) toward Escuintla, then follow the signs to Sipacate and La Empalizada. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive. Buses run from the capital to Sipacate town, and from there you can take a tuk-tuk or mototaxi to the beach. Some tour companies also run day trips from Antigua or the city, especially around turtle hatching season.

When to visit Playa La Empalizada

The dry season runs from November to April, which makes it easier to plan a beach day without rain. August through December is when turtles usually nest and hatch. Early mornings are the best time for surfing or paddling through the mangroves. If you can, go during the week—it’s much quieter than on holidays or weekends. May and November can be nice in between seasons, with fewer people around.

8. Playa Quehueche

Just outside of Livingston, Playa Quehueche feels like a quiet break from the busier Caribbean beaches. The sand is pale and soft, and the water stays shallow and clear. It’s an easy place to swim or snorkel without much effort. There’s some coral close to shore, and you’re likely to see tropical fish if the water’s clear. 

Palm trees line the beach, and the jungle behind it is home to monkeys and birds. A wooden bridge crosses the shoreline and has become a bit of a landmark—it shows up in a lot of travel photos. 

How to get to Playa Quehueche

Getting here takes a few steps. First, head to Puerto Barrios—either by bus (around 5–6 hours) or a short domestic flight from Guatemala City. Then take a boat to Livingston (about 45 minutes). From Livingston, you can either walk along the coast (roughly 30–40 minutes, including the bridge crossing) or hire a boat for a quick ride. Tour operators in Livingston can also set you up with a day trip that includes transport.

When to visit Playa Quehueche

February through May is usually the driest stretch, with calm seas that are good for swimming. December and January are also nice, with a bit more breeze. Weekdays tend to be quieter. If you’re around on November 26, Garifuna Settlement Day brings celebrations that are worth seeing. Mornings are generally calmer, while summer afternoons can bring short rain showers. See more in our guide to the best time to visit Guatemala.
 

9. Playa Dorada (Lake Izabal)

Playa Dorada sits on the edge of Lake Izabal, Guatemala’s biggest lake. It’s a freshwater beach, so no waves or saltwater—just warm, calm water and a quiet stretch of sand. The name means “golden beach,” and the sand really does have a slight gold shimmer to it, especially in the sun. Since it’s a lake, it’s great for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. 

The views are peaceful—green hills in the distance and jungle just behind you. You might catch sight of herons or even manatees if you’re lucky. A few simple restaurants nearby serve local fish dishes and Guatemalan comfort food. A Guatemala travel tip: if you’re in the area, you can also check out hot springs or visit Castillo de San Felipe, a historic stone fort nearby.

How to get to Playa Dorada

From Guatemala City, take the Atlantic Highway (CA-9) toward Rio Dulce. The drive takes about 4–5 hours. Buses also run to El Estor, which is the closest town. From there, tuk-tuks can take you to the beach. Another option is to hire a boat from Rio Dulce and cross the lake—it’s a relaxing way to get there. Some hotels in the area help arrange transport if you’re staying overnight.

When to visit Playa Dorada

December through May is generally the most reliable for good weather. Weekends tend to be more lively with families, while weekdays are quieter. Morning is usually the best time for calm water if you want to paddleboard or kayak. If you're interested in wildlife, early or late in the day is best for birdwatching. September is usually the peak of Guatemala's rainy season, so it’s worth avoiding if you want to make the most of your time on the lake.

10. Playa Cocolí

Playa Cocolí still feels a bit off the radar. It’s got a long stretch of gray-black volcanic sand and strong surf, with steep cliffs that frame the shoreline. Sunset here is especially nice with the cliffs in the background. It’s a go-to for surfers who already know the break—best if you’re comfortable in the water. There’s no big development here, just a few basic cabins and places to camp, which keeps things quiet. Right behind the beach, there are mangroves and estuaries where you’ll spot birds like frigatebirds and pelicans. A couple of small, family-run places serve seafood caught nearby.

How to get to Playa Cocolí

From Guatemala City, head down the CA-2 toward Tiquisate, then continue to Cocolí. It takes around 3 hours, and the final stretch is on a rough dirt road—4WD helps. If you’re taking public transport, go to Tiquisate by bus and then arrange local transport from there. Some eco-focused tour operators run trips from Antigua and other cities that include transport.

When to visit Playa Cocolí

Dry season runs from November to April, which is great for beach days and camping. If you’re coming for the waves, May through October is usually better. Mornings are good for birdwatching, especially near the mangroves. If you go during the week, you’ll probably have most of the beach to yourself. April and November are usually a good middle ground—nice weather without too many people.
 

11. Puerto San José

Puerto San José is one of the easiest beaches to get to from the capital, which makes it a popular weekend escape for people from Guatemala City. 

It’s a port town, but there’s also a long black sand beach with restaurants, hotels, and shops. On weekends, it’s full of local families swimming, relaxing, and eating by the shore. You’ll see fishing boats coming in with the day’s catch, and if you're interested in fishing, you can book a trip to go out for sailfish or marlin. 

There’s a malecón along the waterfront that’s good for a walk around sunset, and plenty of casual places to eat, from ceviche stands to sit-down spots serving Guatemalan dishes. You can rent a jet ski, go on a banana boat ride, or just hang out and swim—there are marked swimming areas. It's one of many great reasons that make Guatemala City worth visiting.

How to get to Puerto San José

Take the CA-9 Pacific Highway straight from Guatemala City—it’s about 1.5 hours by car. Buses leave frequently from the capital, and there are also shuttle services from Antigua. You can also grab a taxi or ride-share from the city if you want a direct route.

When to visit Puerto San José

The nicest weather is usually from November to April. If you’re after a laid-back visit, go during the week. Weekends get busy and lively with families and music on the beach. Fishing trips are best from December to March. Mornings are cooler for walks, and the malecón is a good place to be around sunset when the town comes alive.
 

12. Playa Blanca (near Livingston)

Playa Blanca is a white sand beach just outside of Livingston with clear, calm water that’s great for swimming or snorkeling. There are some coral reefs offshore you can reach easily, and the beach is lined with coconut palms for shade. It feels remote, with jungle around the edges, and there’s not much built up here. Because it’s close to Garifuna communities, you can also try traditional food—like hudut, a fish stew with coconut—and hear music if you’re visiting during a holiday. A few small places near the beach serve seafood, and there’s a small entrance fee to help with maintenance.

How to get to Playa Blanca

First, you’ll need to get to Puerto Barrios—by bus or a short domestic flight from Guatemala City. From there, it’s a 45-minute boat ride to Livingston. Once in Livingston, you can hire a local boat to take you to Playa Blanca, which takes around 20 minutes. Some tour companies in town run day trips that include boat transport and sometimes a few other stops along the way.

When to visit Playa Blanca

The driest, sunniest stretch is from February through May, with good conditions for swimming and snorkeling. December, January, and June can also be nice with fewer people around. Mornings are the best time during the rainy season—afternoon showers are common. If you’re interested in Garifuna culture, come during November for Settlement Day or in December for the John Canoe Festival, when there’s music and dance throughout the area.
 

13. Playa Tilapa

If you're up for something remote, Playa Tilapa still feels wild. It’s close to the Mexican border—about 6 miles (10km) away—and you get there by boat from the village of Tilapita, gliding through mangroves for around 10 minutes. The beach itself is long, wide, and often completely empty aside from a few locals fishing. 

The surf here draws experienced surfers who don’t mind traveling for uncrowded waves. It’s also a nesting area for sea turtles, and the mangrove forests around the village are home to plenty of birds and wildlife. You’ll find a few basic seafood joints in the village and places to stay are minimal—just simple cabañas or camping. It’s quiet, raw, and feels a bit like stepping off the grid.

How to get to Playa Tilapa

From Guatemala City, drive west on the CA-2 toward the border, then continue along smaller roads toward Tilapa. The trip takes about 4–5 hours by car. The last part is unpaved, and during rainy season a 4WD can be helpful. If you’re using public transport, you’ll need to transfer a few times: a bus to Coatepeque, then local connections toward the coast. From Xela, you can take the Golondrina bus from Minerva Terminal, then continue by local transport to Tilapita. From there, it’s a short boat ride across to the beach.

When to visit Playa Tilapa

Surf season runs from March to October, with the most consistent waves during that stretch. Dry season (November to April) is good for sunshine and camping. If you’re interested in sea turtles, head there between July and December. Weekdays are quiet, and even weekends don’t bring many people. February and November are good months for decent weather and hardly any crowds.
 

14. Los Siete Altares

This spot blends jungle and beach in a way that’s hard to find elsewhere. Los Siete Altares is a series of freshwater pools and small waterfalls set in the rainforest just outside Livingston. The last pool flows right out onto the beach, where freshwater meets the sea. You can swim in the pools, hike through the forest, and hang out on the beach for a few hours. It’s also a place with meaning for the local Garifuna community.

How to get to Los Siete Altares

Head to Puerto Barrios first—either by bus (around 5–6 hours) or a quick domestic flight (about 45 minutes) from Guatemala City. From there, take a boat to Livingston, which takes another 45 minutes. Once in Livingston, you can either walk about 1.5 hours along the beach or hire a boat to get there quicker. If you walk, take a tuk-tuk to the Quehueche bridge, cross it, then follow the beach and look for the marked jungle trail.

When to visit Los Siete Altares

February through May is the driest stretch, which makes the trail easier to handle. After rain (June to November), the waterfalls are bigger but the trail can get muddy. Mornings are quietest, and weekdays usually mean fewer people. July and August are great for seeing the waterfalls at full strength—just be ready for wetter conditions.
 

15. El Paredón

El Paredón is a laid-back beach town where everything moves a little slower. It’s best known for surfing, with steady waves that work for beginners and more experienced surfers alike. The beach itself is wide, with soft black sand and long sunsets. When you’re not in the water, there’s kayaking through mangroves, yoga classes, beach bonfires, and hammocks strung up under palm trees. There’s a small but growing scene here—surf camps, hostels, and casual restaurants with a mix of local and international food.

How to get to El Paredón

From Antigua or Guatemala City, drive down the Pacific Highway (CA-2) toward Sipacate, then follow the signs to El Paredón. The whole drive takes around 2.5 hours. Shuttle services run from both cities a few times a week, which makes things easier if you’re not driving. If you’re going the budget route, take a chicken bus to La Gomera and then hop in a local pickup truck to the beach.

When to visit El Paredón

For sun and chill beach time, November to April is ideal. Surf is best between May and October—especially good for beginners since the waves are more consistent. Mornings are great for clean surf and birdwatching in the mangroves. Weekdays are calm, while weekends bring more of a social scene with surf events and beach parties. September tends to be rainiest, but experienced surfers still head down for the bigger swells.
 

16. Punta de Palma

Punta de Palma is a quiet stretch of Caribbean coastline where the beach meets the jungle. You’ll find white sand, calm blue water, and palm trees for shade. It’s a good place for swimming or snorkeling—the reef is close to shore and easy to access, with plenty of fish around. Just inland, there’s forest where you might see monkeys or toucans if you head out for a short hike.

There’s not much development here, so expect basic places to stay—small eco-lodges and cabins mostly. Local fishermen sometimes take people out on the water for fishing or trips to the nearby cayes.

How to get to Punta de Palma

You’ll need to get to Puerto Barrios first. There are buses from Guatemala City that take around 5–6 hours, or you can fly—it’s about 45 minutes. From Puerto Barrios, you’ll need to arrange a boat to Punta de Palma. The ride takes about an hour along the coast. There’s no regular public transport, so it’s best to plan ahead. Some places to stay in the area can help organize a boat if you’re staying with them.

When to visit Punta de Palma

February to May is usually the driest time of year, with calm water and clear skies. December, January, and June are also pretty good, and you’ll likely have the beach to yourself during the week. Mornings tend to be best for seeing wildlife, especially in the forest or along the reef. Try to avoid August through October—this is the height of the rainy season and storms can make it harder to get there.