Guatemala Beaches

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Guatemala's beaches aren't the main reason most travellers visit the country, but that doesn't mean they aren't worth visiting! Don't miss out on the beaches in Guatemala, because the nation's shoreline boasts Pacific and Caribbean coasts. If you're into sport fishing, head to Puerto Quetzal — Guatemala is the "Sailfish Capital of The World!" Meanwhile, in Puerto San José you can do some excellent marine mammal observation.

Looking for beachside adventures that will keep you on dry land, the Pacific Coast has pleasant, nearly deserted black-sand beaches around Monterrico and Hawaii. On the Caribbean side, there are white-sand beaches just outside Lívingston, including Playa Blanca. Most of Guatemala’s beaches are uncrowded, and surfing is possible in some locations.

Bottom line: wherever you decide to visit, you can be certain that these are the best beaches in Guatemala.

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Guatemala highlights: Guatemala Beaches

Not sure where you want to go yet? Get inspired and browse the best places to visit in Guatemala

Monterrico

Monterrico is best known for the sea turtles that frequent its beaches. Because of the undertow, it isn't ideal for swimming, but it’s an interesting shoreline to explore nonetheless — the Monterrico Reserve beach features unusual black sand. You can also explore the nearby mangroves in the Chiquimulilla Canal. Caiman and iguana make their homes in this area. This is an area where you can do some of the area’s best birdwatching. There’s a nice selection of beach hotels that allow you to experience the best of the beach.

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Puerto San Jose

Residents of Guatemala City use Puerto San José as their beach escape. Come here for an authentic Guatemalan getaway — but be forewarned that during holidays like Semana Santa, the shores get quite crowded. Aside from lounging on the beach, you might consider taking a sport fishing excursion — marlins and sailfish swim near the coast in huge numbers. There’s also a water park called Aqua Magic, which features an ostrich farm.

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Livingston

Livingston is a true tropical destination, accessible only by boat. It’s a place to experience both friendly local beaches and more remote beaches on tropical islands. Playa Quehueche and Playa Blanca have white sand and offer a pleasant place to spend an afternoon on the beach next to the dark, blue-green water. The best beaches are available on the Zapatillo Cayes, the nearby islands. They have both pristine sand and aquamarine water, and you can reach them via a 2 hour boat ride.

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Monterrico, Santa Rosa

Puerto San Jose, Escuintla

Livingston, Izabal

Destinations

Guatemala highlights: Guatemala Beaches

Take a look at other fascinating destinations to explore while you visit Guatemala.

Puerto Barrios, Izabal

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Iztapa

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Insider-led Guatemala Design & Concierge

Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.

Get Started

Private drivers; English-speaking available.

Avoid the crowds in private day tours.

Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.

Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.

24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.

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