Activities
El Paredon is a beautiful beach town located in the state of Guatemala. Known for its pristine beaches, vibrant surf culture, and rich natural beauty, El Paredon offers a plethora of captivating activities that will leave you spellbound. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking tranquility, this coastal paradise offers a lot of opportunities to explore. It is home to some of the most incredible activities that make it a popular destination for locals and tourists worldwide. Some of the most popular activities in El Paredon include kayaking, surfing, snorkeling, sport fishing, and swimming. Here, we'll explore ten activities that make El Paredon popular and why you should experience them. So, let's get into it.
Pacific Coast of Guatemala
El Paredon is a small town with black sand beaches located on the Pacific Coast of Guatemala. The volcanic beach has a unique landscape that can’t be found anywhere else. This unique feature makes it a great place to explore and experience the beauty that nature has to offer.
It has a main road with many small shops and restaurants to explore on either side. It also has small dirt roads that link the main road to nearby villages. Despite limited modern facilities, El Paredon has a vibrant local culture and warm, friendly people. The local community is welcoming and open to visitors.
This popular destination offers various attractions that make it unique from other beaches in Guatemala. With its abundance of wildlife, amazing views, and activities, this place is a must-see for anyone looking for an unforgettable getaway. The calming sound of the waves crashing against the black-sand shoreline is a great way to relax and unwind.
Journey from Antigua, Guatemala City
You can easily make a journey from Antigua, Guatemala City, or Lake Atitlan to El Paredon. To get to the beach, you can take a chicken bus, hire a shuttle service from Antigua or Guatemala City, or book an Uber or Taxi.
Opting for local transport is an affordable way to get to El Paredon. However, chicken buses are not the most comfortable or convenient mode of transport. You will have to catch the bus and make several transfers on your way to get to your destination. The roads of Guatemala are not so smooth, and the journey can be quite uncomfortable.
Uber and taxis are the more comfortable option, as they offer direct rides to El Paredon. Cost-wise, it can be quite expensive but will get you to the beach in no time. Moreover, they are not available on coastal roads and can be hard to find in the town. The best option to get to El Paredon is to book a tourist shuttle. Various traveling companies offer shuttle services from the airport in Guatemala City and Antigua straight to El Paredon. This option is not just cost-efficient but also very comfortable.
For those looking for some adventure, El Paredon offers plenty of activities. Whether it’s surfing, fishing, or exploring the nearby caves, the adventurous activities are sure to please. The lush green mangroves offer fantastic kayaking opportunities with stunning views. Fishing fans can take advantage of the various spots to cast a line and have a great day of fishing.
A surf destination for all surfing enthusiasts, El Paredon, Guatemala, is known for its excellent waves and stunning scenery. Located on the Pacific coast of Guatemala, near Guatemala City, this surf town has plenty of surf spots that can accommodate both experienced and beginner surfers. Its unspoiled natural beauty creates the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable surfing experience. It makes it one of the best surfing destinations in Central America.
You can get surf lessons at a surf camp, the Surf House El Paredon, or elsewhere. El Paredon also offers equipment rental and guided tours. You can get surfboards from a La Choza Chula shop or board rentals. Additionally, experienced locals are always willing to help first-timers with tips and tricks on the best spots to catch the perfect wave on El Paredon Beach. The Surf House El Paredon is a great place to stay for anyone looking to combine relaxing beach life with exciting surfing adventures.
This small beach town has some great restaurants with various food options. From fresh seafood to traditional dishes like churrasco, you can find something to satisfy your palate. Grab Yoli’s local cuisine, coco frio, or local burrito to satisfy your hunger. Enjoying Sandara's on the main street is also a great way to soothe your taste buds.
Restaurants in the area also offer traditional Guatemalan dishes like Snadra's, Juan Pelicanos, and Rosa de Jamaica. To make your stay even more enjoyable, El Paredon offers amazing nightlife destinations. Driftwood Surfer Hostel is known for having some of the area’s best beach parties and live music. It's one of the best places to stay in El Paredon and experience something new.
Indulge your senses in the awe-inspiring beauty of the black sand beach, where the sky and ocean unite in a mesmerizing spectacle. As the day draws to a close, El Paredon unveils a magical transformation, inviting you to immerse yourself in its radiance. Find solace on the beach, feeling the warm sand beneath your feet and a gentle breeze brushing against your skin as the sun slips behind the horizon.
This magnificent display of nature is a reminder that El Paredon offers more than just stunning views. It’s a place to connect with the elements and appreciate the beauty of life. Visitors flock to this beach at sunset hour, captivated by its impressive shoreline.
While going to the beach to catch the sunset, bring your towel and a book and find yourself in awe of the vibrant sky as it turns into night. Feel the power of the waves crashing against the rocks, creating an exquisite sound that will echo in your heart for a lifetime.
The El Paredon mangrove tours by La Choza Chula is an unforgettable experience. Journey through the mangrove forests, teeming with an incredible variety of wildlife. During your trip, you’ll drift into a small sailboat, allowing you to take in the beautiful and unique surroundings.
Traveling in a boat with a local guide, you’ll learn about the ecology and biodiversity of these forests. With a keen eye, you can spot many species of birds and reptiles. It’s a great way to get closer to nature and appreciate the beauty of El Paredon.
Turtle hatching is one of the most unique and fascinating activities in El Paredon. Every year, hundreds of sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in the sand and then head back out to sea. The turtle eggs are conserved and protected until the hatchlings emerge from their shells and make their way back to the sea.
From September to December, visitors can witness hundreds of baby turtles hatching and making their way to the sea. It’s an amazing sight that can bring a sense of awe and wonder to all those who witness it. Driftwood Surfer Hotel has made a major contribution to the turtle conservation project at El Paredon. Every year the hotel raises funds to buy turtle eggs to donate to the Tortuguero. Here the turtles are kept in a protected environment until it is time for them to be released into the ocean.
The environmentally conscious community of El Paredon works hard to conserve nature. The Sipacate Naranjo National Park, located nearby, is home to various plants and animals. The community also encourages visitors to be respectful of their surroundings by engaging in sustainable activities during their stay.
Another great way to experience El Paredon is by staying at a local family home. The local community is friendly and welcoming, allowing visitors to experience the culture and traditional lifestyle of El Paredon. Locals love to learn about new cultures and share their stories with visitors. The organization of La Choza Chula empowers the local community by introducing visitors to families that open their homes for a few days or weeks. This is an opportunity to get closer to the real El Paredon, to learn how the locals live and eat, to experience unique rituals and customs, and to appreciate the authentic beauty of El Paredon.
The organization trains and educates locals to provide experiences that combine culture, nature, and adventure. They ensure that visitors enjoy a relaxed and safe stay. They offer guided tours of the Mayan ruins in the area, which are some of the most well-preserved sites in the region. Visitors can also take part in cultural activities such as visiting local farms, learning about traditional healing practices, and participating in traditional festivals. During homestay with local families, you get your own room and bathroom, a full kitchen, and a communal area to relax and socialize. Home-cooked meals made with fresh local ingredients and a homey atmosphere make this an unforgettable experience.
Bracelet-making is an art form popular in El Paredon, and visitors can take classes to learn how to make these beautiful accessories. It's a traditional craft that has been passed down through generations, and visitors can learn the techniques used to make different kinds of bracelets. Local women provide bracelet-making classes and pass on their skills and knowledge to visitors. You'll learn not just how to make bracelets but also about the history of the region and local culture.
Bracelet making is not only a fun activity, but it is also an income source for many young people in the area. It was the first project of La Choza Chula's organization to create a sustainable income in the community. They invest the profit from the classes in community development projects such as education and healthcare.
El Paredon Beach is a great destination for beachgoers. Its volcanic, black sand beaches are a unique contrast to the crystal blue water and lush greenery all around. Rise with the sun and start your day on a tranquil note. Wander along the sandy shores of El Paredon Beach. The stillness of the early morning provides a moment of peace, allowing you to reconnect with nature and soak in the breathtaking views. Capture the ethereal beauty of the sunrise as it reflects off the pristine waters, creating a picturesque canvas.
Swimming at the beach is very enjoyable, with crystal-clear waters and soft sand. Take a dip in the calm, cool ocean to refresh your body and mind. Unwind and take in the spectacular landscapes that surround you. The beach is not crowded and offers a sense of exclusivity, creating an oasis-like atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to spend some quality time with friends or family and take in the serenity of your surroundings. It is not very suitable for swimming due to strong currents and waves, but it’s the perfect beach for strolling, sunbathing, or various other watersports.
El Paredon is known for its delicious seafood and traditional dishes. The cuisine is based on locally sourced ingredients, including fresh fish, shrimp, and more. The mouth-watering Guatemalan national foods cooked with love are a must-try.
Visitors can learn to cook these local dishes from the locals, who have been preparing them for generations. Various cooking classes are available for those who want to learn more about the traditional recipes of El Paredon. These cooking classes are especially popular among tourists as they get the chance to enjoy a delicious meal with an authentic flavor.
La Choza Chula offers a cooking class where you can experience cooking with the locals in their kitchen. Visitors can learn the recipes of Guatemalan empanadas, tortillas, and tamales, as well as the famous chilaquiles. This is a great way to experience the food culture of El Paredon and learn about local customs and practices. You can even take some recipes home with you to recreate them in your kitchen.
El Paredon is a great place for fishing, and the local fishermen are very knowledgeable. They will be happy to take you on a fishing tour and share their wisdom with you. You can catch fish from the shore or go out in a boat for a day and target some of the deeper species. You can join a tour and learn about the local fishing culture, observe the boats going out to sea, and have a chance to catch your own meal. Locals can guide you to the best spots and teach techniques for a successful catch.
Both open-sea fishing tours and mangrove fishing tours offer a unique experience. With their unique fish species, it is a great way to observe the rich biodiversity of El Paredon. Exploring El Paredon's coastline on a fishing tour is a great way to see the beauty of the area and experience traditional fishing methods up close.
El Paredon is a remote beach town in Guatemala. With its stunning landscapes and secluded location, it's an ideal spot for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. But many people want to know if El Paredon, Guatemala is safe to explore. The answer is yes! El Paredon has a lower crime rate than any other town in Central America. You can eat at any restaurant, whether it's Soul Food Kitchen, an alfresco eatery, or lobster dinner on the beach. You can also feel safe when taking a boat tour to explore the jungle-covered cliffs and crystal-clear waters. However, in a tourist-rich area like El Paredon, it's important to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings as some opportunistics may target tourists. Moreover, you should take steps to protect yourself and your belongings, such as not leaving valuables unattended or wandering around at night. The biggest concern while visiting El Paredon is the big, crazy tides. If you're not an experienced swimmer, or if you don't have the necessary gear to stay afloat, it's best to avoid swimming in the ocean altogether and opt for a pool instead. Aside from safety, El Paredon also boasts many unique features that make it stand out from other beach destinations.
During your Guatemala trip, you can head to El Paredon Beach and experience a tropical paradise in one of the most unique places on earth. Now that you know what makes El Paredon so special, let’s talk about where to stay in El Paredon. El Paredon offers accommodation options for all budget types. Most of the hotels offer limited modern amenities, but they guarantee a great view over the ocean. Moreover, you need to book the hotel rooms in advance since they get booked very quickly, especially during the peak season. Here’s a look at some of the best places to stay in El Paredon:
Located in the heart of El Paredon, Mellow Hostel offers affordable and comfortable accommodation with a range of facilities. The hostel also features a swimming pool, massage options, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel offers five types of rooms to facilitate visitors with different needs.
The relaxing vibe of the hostel makes it a perfect destination for travelers who wish to stay in El Paredon. The shared lounge with a hammock to sit back and relax, the outdoor terrace with a view of the ocean, as well as the warm hospitality makes this hostel a wonderful spot for holidays. It is also an excellent place to enjoy surfing, as the beach offers great waves for all levels of surfers. El Paredon is also known for its unique rock formations, which are ideal for snorkeling and exploring.
Visitors can even take a surf class with a local instructor to learn how to ride a wave and explore underwater sea life. Furthermore, the hotel offers delicious food and drinks, and visitors can enjoy them in the relaxing environment of El Paredon.
With an unforgettable experience and unique atmosphere, Driftwood Surfer Hostel is the ideal place to stay during a visit to El Paredon. The hostel offers comfortable accommodations and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. It offers private as well as air-conditioned dorm rooms. You can choose the accommodation that fits your needs and budget.
The captivating view of the pool, beach, and the Caribbean Sea can be enjoyed from the private balconies of each room. Guests can take advantage of the hostel’s surfboards, yoga classes, and beach volleyball courts. You can take a surfing class to learn the basics of surfing or opt for the more advanced course to learn some of the tricks.
Additionally, Driftwood Surfer Hostel offers a restaurant and a bar that will satisfy all your culinary needs. From delicious local seafood dishes to international cuisine, it offers various cuisines to suit everyone’s tastes.
This hotel offers unique properties, which include comfortable and stylish rooms and bungalows. The natural beauty of the beach and ocean can be enjoyed from the large balconies of each room. The air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms are perfect for comfortable nights.
You can also access yoga classes here to soothe your mind and body. The skilled instructors will guide you through a variety of meditation techniques to help you relax. Guests are also provided with access to a private pool, massage services, a gym, and other recreational activities.
The hotel also offers surf lessons as well as guided tours of the area. This is an ideal place to stay for those who want to be close to nature and still enjoy some comfort. Moreover, you can experience mangrove tours, kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing.
This beachfront hostel offers an ideal place to stay for those who want to be close to nature without breaking their budget. It has a swimming pool, garden and plenty of space to relax. It also provides basic amenities such as hot water, air conditioning, and a kitchenette.
The restaurant bar at the hostel serves traditional Mexican food. It is a great place to meet people and make new friends. Different drinks and meals with fresh ingredients are perfect to start a day at the beach. With its unique location, it also offers the chance to enjoy breathtaking views of El Paredon Beach. The unique decor is perfect for a romantic dinner or a relaxing evening.
If you are planning a trip to El Paredon, you should consider the following tips to make the most of your experience:
The humid and hot weather of El Paredon is a perfect breeding ground for insects and flies. Make sure to buy some bug spray and bring it with you when you visit so that pesky bugs won’t ruin your vacation.
Unlike most other beaches, the black sand beach of El Paredon absorbs excessive heat, making the sand too hot to walk on barefoot. Wear sandals with a good grip or any other shoes that can keep your feet safe from the hot sand.
The WiFi signals are not very reliable in El Paredon, so it is better to buy a local SIM card if you want to stay connected while on vacation. This way, you can make calls and use the internet without having to worry about patchy signals.
The nearest ATM is quite a distance away from El Paredon, making it difficult to access cash when you need it. Moreover, only a few places accept credit cards. Therefore, it is advisable to bring some extra cash so that you don’t run into any financial hassles during your stay.
El Paredon is a beautiful place with plenty of things to do. You can relax on the beach, explore local Mayan culture, learn about the region's history, and go out on a fishing tour. From catching some of the best waves in Central America to releasing baby sea turtles into the vast Pacific, El Paredon provides a unique and unforgettable experience. All these aspects and activities make El Paredon worth visiting, and it is one of the most popular places for travelers to experience in Central America. So, if you have not visited El Paredon yet, pack your bags, get into a chicken bus, and be ready to visit El Paredon and explore the spectacular activities.