25 for a little surf hut, hammock out the front, outdoor shower and a 5-minute walk from the beach. If the sun is not out, it might take a day or two to get your clothes back. You might not get quite the array of ex-pat run juice bars and sunset cocktail joints but you are guaranteed a Guatemalan experience. We were never disappointed. Everything below is something I currently use and never leave my house without. If you decide to take a Chicken Bus from Antigua to El Paredon it will take you a whopping 6 hours! Ultimate Guide to El Paredon, Guatemala Wander Her Way You can visit the park by boat and by kayak. Because of its location, facing entirely South and out of the shadow of the Galapagos Islands, any south swell that comes out of the Antarctic will hit El Paredon in full force. The only company I recommend for booking transport and tours in Guatemala (other than the individuals and companies I have named) is GuateGo. The owner Garry is really friendly and knows how to make some great food! More Routes from Antigua Antigua to Lanqun Antigua to San Marcos la Laguna Antigua to Lake Atitlan Antigua to El Paredon Enjoy some water sports, or simply sit on the beach and watch the sunset. One of the best things about Guatemala is its delicious cuisine. Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes, three of which are constantly active. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. The cost for this can end up being about the same as a shuttle, so thats really your best option. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH. There isnt much wifi anywhere in town but Mellow hostel would be your best bet for finding that. Looking for more information about traveling in Guatemala? See the exact locations of these spots on the Guatemala Google Map Legend. Mellow, Driftwood, and Cocori are totally awesome places to book while staying in El Paredon! Here are the activities we recommend you check out: Perhaps the best thing to do in El Paredon is to go surfing. Their tours provide an alternative income stream for many of the locals. If youre not a guest you can get a day pass for the pool and to chill out in the gorgeous setting. Between June and October (rainy season) is when youll find the biggest waves in El Paredon so do some research if surfing is something youre keen to do. 7 Things to do in El Paredon, Guatemala Tourists are unlikely to visit El Paredon in October. Youll explore deep into the mangrove and see all the different species living there whilst learning about the importance of mangroves here in El Paredon. Please see myDisclosurefor more details. Cost During the week, its a 100q tab ($13), and on weekends its 150q ($20), but you only get a 100q towards your bar tab. This hostel not only has a lively atmosphere for backpackers traveling in Guatemala, but it has lots of facilities that will make you stay comfortable. Exploring Hidden Gems and Eco-Tourism in El Paredon, Guatemala This is the place to do it. About 10 days before I visited El Paredon, there seemed to be reasonable availability on Airbnb / Booking.com but 6 days before? This is a good, affordable place to learn how to surf for beginners. You might also like: Acatenango Volcano Hike - The ultimate 2 day adventure in Guatemala Just 60 meters away from the beach, you can run to the waves straight from your villa's doorstep. Many come here to relax, surf, or party as there are honestly not many other choices! RELATED: 7 Travel Shoes for Women That Are Functional AF. This means any day of the week, you can use the 100q you pay for entry towards food and drink. While I didnt see this hotel while I was in El Paredon, it looks like a really nice option. With how remote El Paredon is and seems, it is actually quite easy to get here. The warmest time of year is generally late April where highs are regularly around 94.6F (34.8C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 73.7F (23.2C) at night. I spent 4 days earlier this month on the volcanic black sands of El Paredon and so if youre looking for an insight into what to expect, where to stay and the best things to do in El Paredon Guatemala dont move an inch. If you want the cheapest way, youll be riding on the chicken bus and in that case, it will take around four hours to get here as youll have tons of stops along the way. Most people, myself included, will head to the Pacific Coast to get their dose of saltwater whilst in Guatemala. And What Not To Pack? El Paredon Surf Camp is the surf camp that I went with when I was here, and they were super cool and very reasonably priced. I got you covered! Even though El Paredon is a small town, youll find many things to do to keep you entertained. This is a non-profit tour company that is famous in El Paredon for its tours. Guatemala Bucket List Best Things To Do In Guatemala. Relax in a hammock or the pool, and grab a bite to eat! The highs and lows of spending coronavirus quarantine in paradise Ive linked to the places on Booking.com but those not linked you will need to call to book. This is a really unique experience because you really get to share and experience how the local people here in El Paredon live. Not everywhere has WiFi. If you buy something through the links on this page, youre helping me pay for my next adventureso, thank you for clicking! El Paredon is known as an up-and-coming destination ever since it caught the attention of many foreign surfers. Relax on the beach in El Paredon, cruise serene Lake Atitln, and visit one of Central America's . Where is El Paredn? WiFi is meh and not offered at every accomodation. However, the water here is a bit intimidating, so you might want to go out with somebody who can help you have more fun and be super safe. These cookies do not store any personal information. based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Just be careful when swimming in the ocean. This website uses affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through a link at no extra cost to you. It was even kind of burning my feet when it got kicked into my flip flops. Posted on Published: December 21, 2021- Last updated: March 12, 2022. Like many Latin-American countries, Guatemala has unique national foods that will make your mouth water. One way to get to El Paredon is by shuttle. June August is fairly slow season for tourism in El Paredon, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly less. So dont expect too much in terms of anything really! El Paredon might not be known for its extravagant hotels, but Kaan Surf can satisfy some of your modern needs. You can take a boat ride out to the feeding grounds to see them. This makes El Paredon one of the best places in Guatemala to go surfing. Your Guide to El ParedonGuatemala's Surf Town - Where in the World El Paredon - Guatemala's best kept secret! - YouTube Posted on Last updated: November 15, 2022. El Paredon Guatemala At A Glance El Paredon is a tinny town where you can literally walk its length in about 10 minutes! They will at the least have drinks going all day and often have DJs mid-day and well into the night, live music, and other events. Mellow Hostel is a newly-opened hostel with delicious food (my lunch here was one of the best meals I had in Guatemala!) Hammock Living. Its one of the best surf spots in Guatemala, in fact, The Guardian thinks its one of the t. Where is El Paredon beach, and how do you get from Antigua to the beach? We got a recommendation from the owner of our hotel when visiting Semuc Champey. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. If youre not an early riser the sunset is for you! Top Tip:Always book before you get there! a beach hut with no air conditioning.) If you have a portable one then that is even better! In most hostels, you will have the opportunity of staying at a beachfront property for a great price. They are a local Not For Profit company who have done some great work in the local community building schools and libraries. El Paredon is my favorite beach in Guatemala and just a short ride from Antigua. Located a few streets behind the main area is a river that is surrounded by trees. I am certainly no stranger to adventure, outward and within. Because of this, it is advised to try to book well in advance if you want a specific place to stay. Read More: Guatemala Bucket List Best Things To Do In Guatemala. One of the many things La Choza Chula offers is a Guatemalan cooking class. It is only two hours away from Antigua Guatemala, so you can get there quickly. Book your experience and enquire today via Instagram @lachozachula or WhatsApp +502 53872886. I picked one of the very last available when I booked (Sunrise Hostal) and it was perfect for what I was looking for. I did the homework, so you dont have to. (47 reviews) "Exelent place to Relax" Reviewed on Jan 30, 2023 Additionally, La Choza Chula provides workshops and proper training to all of its staff. It will cost between $50 and $60 USD, You will not have to get on a boat when coming from Antigua. Just lay down, enjoy some coconut water, and listen to the calming sound of the crashing waves. Hotel in El Paredn Buena Vista. This time three weeks ago, Playa el Paredon a popular surf spot on Guatemala's remote Pacific coast would have been packed. Theyve worked on building local libraries and schools. Tourism data for this area is extrapolated based on nearby areas. In order to avoid having your plans sidetracked due to heavy rains, it is best to visit between November and April. You cant come to the beach and not have a beach day. It is so hot that most people dont bask on the sandy beach during the day. If you are also looking for the best places to eat in Antigua, take a look at this post right here where I go through all my favorite restaurants, cafes, and breweries in Antigua. El Paredon in Guatemala is something I didnt expect when visiting here. Cabins and places to camp are offered at affordable prices, and lessons are offered for beginner surfers. Cost 150q ($20) access only; they do not have their day pass fees go towards a tab which is unfortunate. You will definitely want to wear shoes while walking on the beach, or risk burning your feet. The sand is HOT. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories. For example, on the week of January 1st there are no days of precipitation on average. Cocori Hostel is another popular beachfront property that not as many people know about. The best way to enjoy the lively atmosphere is to book a room with Driftwood Surfer and stay with them. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early January. El Paredon, Guatemala, is a small and sleepy surf town. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. You can book transport in Guatemala with them here and Guatemalan tours with them here. The beaches in Guatemala arent necessarily well-known, and most wont put these spots on their itinerary while exploring the country. El Paredon is an off-the-beaten-path destination located about a 2.5 hour drive from Antigua. When he told me it was only 100Q a night I couldnt give him my money quick enough! Several places in the town offer horseback riding, but the most famous of which is Driftwood Surfer Hostel. This small, laidback fishing village is located on the Pacific coast of Guatemala, about two hours from Antigua and three and a half hours from the capital. The Best El Paredn Buena Vista Hotels, Guatemala (From $30) The windiest month is March, followed by April and February. Nina helps people like you move around the world while making money. It is the lowest . Hey, I am Sean Lau! The tranquil town of El Paredon is the perfect place for surfers and lovers of the ocean. El Paredon is a small fishing village in Guatemala, with the Pacific Ocean on the South-Eas,t and the Sipacate Mangrove Nature Reserve on the North-West side. Some of the other activities you can book through them include: As you will come soon find out, partying is very popular in this area of Guatemala. For the tourist bus, its around 125Q and you can either book through the accommodation you book to stay in El Paredon, or book through GuateGo. Did you find this post helpful? Monterrico is the more popular Guatemalan beach choice, as its much more built up, with more choice of places to stay. Not many people will be swimming because of the rip currents and the big waves that rip through here. As there arent that many places if its full you will be sleeping on the beach as you wont be able to return to Antigua until the next day. This reserve, administered by Cecon (Centro de Estudios Conservacionistas de la Universidad de San Carlos), is Monterrico's biggest attraction. There are quite a few places to stay in El Paredon. Receive top travel tips, news and adventure ideas! Many hostels in the area have pools but if yours doesnt then you can easily get a day pass. The cost of the shuttle is Q90 (about $12) each way to and from Antigua, and there are usually two departures daily. It is one of the best surfing spots in Guatemala, and though you might not be able to do a lot of swimming, the black sand beaches are an incredible sight. However, I used a day pass at a few of the hotels in the area, which was so much fun! Dont come here with the wrong idea. Described as one of the Top 10 Surf Destinations in the World by The Guardian, this little fishing village is only around 2 hours from the well-known colonial city of Antigua.It boasts some of the most spectacularly unspoilt stretches of black-sand beach, dusty village roads, and endlessly diverse mangrove forests. They give you the opportunity to experience the true Guatemalan way of life. Visitors can take in the tropical atmosphere just by walking through the elegantly-designed hotel. You might be wondering if El Paredon is safe. Since then, I have trekked through the Andes, tested my lungs at over 5,000 meters above sea level, encountered the worlds deadliest spider in the Amazon Rainforest, explored the worlds most catastrophic nuclear disaster. Home | El Paredon Surf Camp If the place youre staying doesnt have its own pool, you can get a day pass at Mellow Hostel for Q150 (which includes Q100 bar tab.) If you love the beach and surfing, then El Paredon is the perfect place for you. El Paredon, Guatemala This is a popular place to take a kayak or paddleboard to explore this area which is called the mangroves. Granted its not always like that, but still, issue caution when heading out. 76 68. There are very few places to eat and not many hotels either. Your options are Thai Curry, Indian Curry or Noodles. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission atno extra cost to you! Take a tour with La Choza Chula. Secret Guatemala: the Black Beaches of El Paredn So drive safely and keep a watchful eye. Luckily there are a few little hammock huts along the beach, but those are for guests only; we will talk more about this in a sec! The restaurant moved since I went there and you can also stay in, I think thats the name anyway! Weeks with ideal weather are listed above. You may think to yourself that you want to stay at the party hostel but in reality, the whole town congregates in one area/hostel every night. Sgueme en Instagram como JULSGOES #guatemala #beachhotel #beachlife #hotel.julsgoes | Publicar el sorteo en mi InstagramQuieres ganarte 1 noche aqu ? But seriously. Be aware that the streets arent always well-maintained. The owner is a pretty cool guy). I hope you can make it out this way when visiting this beautiful country. Take a bracelet making class with some of the local girls from the village. How to get to El Paredon | La Choza Chula The Essential Beach Packing List (+ Fun Items and Tips! Here are the best ways to explore and enjoy this little slice of paradise in Guatemala. For full information, please see my disclaimerhere. A few of the hotels around El Paredon offer day passes where you can give them X amount of money, and you can use that money as your bar or food tab. Youll then stop off at a local salt farm where you can see the process of the natural salt extraction here in Guatemala. Most of them are hostels and the accommodations can be very rustic (i.e. Driftwood is the place everyone talks about but I didnt see the WOW factor myself. El Paredon is one of the best surf destinations in Guatemala. This actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise as whilst wandering down the beach I stumbled upon, When I visited here this place was actually called Finka Mistia. Many people will flock to Antigua, Lake Atitlan, or the Mayan ruins. Super worth it! One of their most popular activities is a homestay. Unlike other countries, Guatemala does not experience four seasons. With these amazing Guatemalan cooking experiences, youll get a chance to go to a local familys kitchen and learn how to prepare authentic Guatemalan dishes. Best of Guatemala: Antigua, El Paredn & Lake Atitln - 13 Days Keep in mind this town is mega small! Nights in El Paredon can be relaxing, but when the weekend comes around, the town comes to life with beach bonfires, live music at Cocor Lodge, and drinking games at the Driftwood Surfer. Things you need to know about visiting El Paredon beach in Guatemala, There are only about 5 places to stay there (a few more options and it is growing), Although there isnt much choice in the way of places to eat, the food is amazing, If you are looking for a quiet time out place, go to El Paredon, If you want a mix of quiet time and party time then you want. If there are particular food or snacks you wish to bring with you, make sure you purchase them before your stay in El Paredon. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. However, if you want to take on some of the waves with a board, it is a great place! On my blog, you will find personal information, guides and travel tips as I share my discoveries of the world. Ive been surfing in many places around the world, including Ecuador, Morocco, Portugal, and Mexico. Nowhere is 100% safe, all of the time. Considering I dont enjoy staying at places that have a lot of people with parties and have dorms to sleep in, I opted to have my private bungalow elsewhere. There are only about 5 places to stay there (a few more options and it is growing) If you want to surf in Guatemala you need to either go early in the morning or after 5 pm There is little to no wifi in El Paredon Ultimate Guide to El Paredon, Guatemala - a world of destinations Nina Ragusa is an adventurer, messy bun master, breakfast fan, and full-time travel blogger. The waves are amazing but only at certain parts of the day. When I visited here this place was actually called Finka Mistia. Most accommodations will offer surf hire and surf lessons to guest and if they dont have the instructors / equipment themselves, they will be able to make arrangements for you. My goal is to help others find the experience they want out of life and to show them how to achieve it. From surfing in its bright blue waters, to seeing sea turtles, or just relaxing in top-rated hotels, you wont get bored there. There is also an unexpected sight to behold here in the form of a Thai restaurant, Soul Food Kitchen . Jokes aside - El Paredon is pretty safe. It rains or snows a significant amount: 2 to 11 days per month. You can also email but remember the wifi isnt great there so it is always best to call. They are a Guatemalann owned company that have painstakingly brought together all of the transport and tour options in one easy-to-use website. Did I forget to mention its location just a few minutes walk from the beach? Locals and tourists visit El Paredon from Antigua to relax, unwind and take a break from the busy locations surrounding it. The cost of the shuttle from Panajachel to El Paredon costs around Q180. Welcome to our guide to El Paredon, Guatemala! LivingOutLau is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Rent a board and surf! This is a very small beach town, dont just show up! PAREDON SURF HOUSE - Updated 2023 Prices & Guest house Reviews (El El Paredon Guatemala - 13+ Cool Things To Do, Where To Stay & Eat Everything is within walking distance so no need for transport to and from places. From air-conditioned rooms to its beautiful pool and beachside location, there is nothing not to love about Driftwood Surfer. This is one of the most popular spots! The ride here from Antigua is around 2 hours and 3 hours from Guatemala city. Whats It Like to Study Spanish in Antigua, Guatemala. I only have one night, which was not enough! Afterwards, enjoy the food with the local family! The only danger in El Paredon is the strong currents that could pull in inexperienced swimmers. Its known for being an up-and-coming destination thats popular with surfers and beach bums. Due to its proximity to Antigua, it makes a great weekend trip. The town has long been a weekend retreat for locals seeking an escape from the commotion of Guatemala City and expats living in Antigua. Many hostels will have a set of their own as well as Airbnbs. There are two main companies that have shuttles to El Paredon, NEWay or 2theOcean. There are plenty of restaurants in El Paredon, but the local shops have a limited inventory. They also offer homestays, cooking classes, and more. So El Paredon is small. It is accessible via two different routes, either coming via land or via boat, travelling down the canal until you arrive at the community from the Sipacate side. Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. As of Oct 07, 2019 there are travel warnings for Guatemala; exercise a high degree of caution. They will get you to El Paredon in no time and even pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. Ultimate Guide to the Acatenango Volcano Hike, The Complete Guide to Lake Atitlan, Guatemala. So take my advice if you are going to El Paredon, book to stay at Casa Macano Surf-Yoga! With the endless volcanic black sand beach and the consistent waves it is a perfect destination for all types of . Theres always something going on! If you are a digital nomad or planning travel of at least 6 months then go for SafetyWing. Discover El Paredon, Guatemala: Things To Do + FAQs Answered Everyone knows everyone, and the town is generally very safe. Booking a tour is easy, and youll get a tour guide that will paddle you through the stunning mangrove estuaries of the National Park. So make sure that you know what youre doing or go out with a surf camp. It had literally all gone. La Choza Chula offers homestays with local families. It costs only $1 USD more than Driftwood Surfer but has a much bigger pool and a relaxing daytime vibe. Known for its consistent waves, El Paredon is a perfect place to get in and try your hand at surfing. 2023 Wander Her Way. I'm Nina, and I've been climbing volcanos, basking on exotic beaches, and dabbling in new cultures since 2011. Eating local is one of my favourite things to do in Guatemala and is one of the best things to do in El Paredon because 1. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. And for that reason (youll see when you get there), its easy to see how it gets fully booked. El Paredon is famous for its black sand beaches. We guarantee youll make unforgettable memories during your stay in El Paredon. Also. Amplios jardines, lagunas, columpios, paseos a caballo, tours planificados, piscinas, nacimientos de agua y mucho ms. You can also rent a surfboard at almost any place you stay. Youll spot all the local wildlife, from ibises to herons and turtles. At 34 I sold all my worldly possessions that wouldnt fit into 3 boxes or my backpack and hit the road. Fall daily highs range from 90.8F (32.7C) and 88.1F (31.2C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. There arent as many accommodations to choose from in El Paredon as there are other popular tourist attractions in Guatemala. If you leave from San Pedro, the shuttle will first go to Antigua then El Paredon whereas leaving from Panajachel is a straight shot. The sunrise and sunset light here is heaven. If youre looking to enhance your trip to the Pacific Coast, one of the best things to do in El Paredon is.. get local! Dont get me wrong though, people still want to party here. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night. The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in El Paredon (in). This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Relaxing on the beach will give you the breather you need, you are still on vacation after all! Disclosure: Where in the World is Nina is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, MileValue, as well as other affiliate programs, designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites at no extra cost to you. The area is less temperate than some in the 17th percentile for pleasant weather compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.