Guatemala is world-famous for its Mayan ruins and especially interesting for backpacking adventures, but there are also many amazing beaches just perfect for rest and relaxation.
Its beaches on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts are unique as its ancient culture, yet far less crowded than other beaches in Central America and the Caribbean.
Continue reading to learn about Guatemala’s top beaches.
Monterrico
Once a small fishing village, Monterrico is now the most popular beach destination in Guatemala.
The volcanic black sand is the first detail you will notice when visiting this beach on the Pacific Coast.
The beach is widely known for its black sand, and some visitors come just for it.
Others are attracted by the exotic, tropical atmosphere of the area.
Breathtaking views around every corner begging to be photographed, from the thatched-roof houses to the volcanoes in the distance.
Other visitors visit the beach to witness the sea turtle conservation activities and initiatives.
Four different species of sea turtles lay their eggs on the beach.
You can even release a baby turtle for a small donation fee.
There are plenty of resorts and restaurants here because it is the country’s most popular beach destination.
This beach destination, out of all in Guatemala, has the most tourist accommodations.
However, it is rarely too crowded, and the commercial development is not overpowering.
Champerico
Another popular beach destination on the Pacific Coast is Champerico.
The location has long been an important shipping port.
It has a famous old pier where coffee, sugar and lumber are still delivered.
This rusty structure looks absolutely stunning against the backdrop of a sunset.
Champerico, like most beaches in Guatemala, is not too crowded.
The fresh and delicious seafood is one of the reasons visitors come here.
Try fried fish, prawns, shellfish and ceviche in one of the charming restaurants.
If you are looking for a surfing beach in Guatemala, look no further.
The massive waves are more than ideal for surfing.
However, that makes it a bit dangerous if you are not experienced enough, so be careful out in the waves.
This area is also known for its hot weather, so be prepared.
On the plus side, the water is always warm, so your body does not need to warm up to the water.
Puerto San Jose
Another beach destination on the Pacific Coast is Puerto San Jose.
It is Guatemala City’s nearest and one of the most popular beach destinations among locals.
If you are staying in Guatemala City, this is the place you must visit.
Even if you are not staying in Guatemala City, it definitely should be on your bucket list.
This city is home to the region’s alternative airport, while the main option is in Guatemala City.
So, if you want to avoid the crowds of Guatemala City while still going to the beach, this is a great option.
There is a wide variety of seafood available here.
It is not surprising at all, knowing the fact that Puerto San Jose is the country’s largest fishing town on the Pacific Ocean coast.
Sportfishing is a very popular tourist activity in this area.
From marlins to sailfish, the variety of fish in these waters is incredible.
Many birdwatchers visit the area too, because of the diverse birdlife.
Livingston
Not all of Guatemala’s best beaches are on the Pacific Coast.
The beaches in Livingston, on the Caribbean coast, look a little more familiar.
The sand here is more white, as compared to the darker colour of the Pacific beaches, and there are plenty of coconut palms that provide shade when the temperature gets too high.
The beach may have a more familiar appearance, but the vibe here is quite unique.
The Afro-Caribbean atmosphere is unlike anything you will find on the Pacific Coast.
Livingston, which is situated between the Caribbean and the rainforest, has a unique and vibrant culture.
It is also a bit off the beaten track, as it can only be reached via the Rio Dulce river or from Puerto Barrios.
The most popular beach in the area is Playa Blanca.
Despite its beauty, Playa Blanca’s commercial aspect is still developing.
True adventurers will enjoy spending the nights here.
The Seven Altars waterfalls are another famous tourist attraction in this area, where you can hike up a small river which is covered with trees and full of waterfalls and cascading pools.
You can also watch the pelicans or learn to make local cuisine by joining a cooking class.
Playa Tilapa
Although there are many beautiful, uncrowded beaches in Guatemala, Playa Tilapa stands out for being even more rural and more gorgeous than the others.
Tilapa is located on the Pacific Coast near the Mexican border, and you can reach it via a scenic route that begins at Tecún Umán and passes through endless palm oil and banana fields.
It is one of the most secluded beaches in Guatemala, which says a lot.
This is the beach for anyone looking to completely unwind.
There are not many tourist activities here, except cruising the neighbouring preserve with small boats.
What makes Tilapa the perfect place for rest and relaxation is its untouched beauty and its remoteness.
It is a location that exists outside of time, and you will have the feeling that when you return, everything will be exactly as you left it.
Visitors do indeed leave with the impression that the beach was theirs alone.
In this piece of paradise, it is impossible not to make a memory.
Guatemala Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Guatemala Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: HIGH
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: HIGH
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: HIGH
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Guatemala’s beaches, from Monterrico to Playa Tilapa, offer a unique and uncrowded experience with stunning views, delicious seafood, and opportunities for activities like sea turtle conservation or surfing.