Tucked away on Guatemala’s Pacific coast, El Paredon is an increasingly popular must-see destination for backpackers and surfers. Despite its rising popularity, this village remains a serene escape from more crowded places in Guatemala such as Xela and Antigua. Whether you're a surfer chasing waves, a traveler in search of cultural connections, or a backpacker looking for a beach party, El Paredon offers a unique blend of various activities.
General practical information about Guatemala To have internet in Guatemala you can buy a physical sim when you arrive, or you can get an e-sim. For the latter there are various options worth checking out:
When I went to Nicaragua, I bought one via Airalo. Which was the cheapest option I could find then!
Another good esim option is Yesim - with my code 'travelpayouts24' you get a 3 EUR discount until 31st of December 2024!
If you are a frequent traveller, you can look into the Drimsim, which is a physical sim but it is a universal sim. Yes! You read that right. It supposedly works in every country as soon as your plane lands and so has benefits similar to an e-sim.
About El Paredon, Guatemala
Located about 140 kilometers southwest of Guatemala City, El Paredon is a small coastal village with a population of just over 1.500. El Paredon is located at the Pacific Ocean and its beaches are lined with black volcanic sand, giving incredible and picturesque sunsets. Further inlands you will find lush mangroves and more authentic villages. The village’s laid-back vibe and welcoming community make it an ideal spot for slow travelers looking to unwind and connect with nature.
El Paredon’s charm lies in its simplicity as the village's culture is a blend of traditional fishing culture and a chill surf scene. However, this place has been growing in popularity amongst backpackers in recent years and I think it is on its way to become as popular as Puerto Escondido, Mexico. Despite the rapid commercial development, El Paredon still has a peaceful feel and offers a refreshing alternative to more tourist-heavy destinations in Guatemala.
What to do in El Paredon as a (Slow) Traveler?
Although I love slow travelling and generally prefer staying at places for weeks at a time, whether to do so in El Paredon depends on your travel wishes. If you are looking for a steady surfspot to relax and unwind for several weeks, El Paredon is the place to be! However, if you are looking for a more authentic cultural experience than there might be better places than El Paredon, such as Xela. El Paredon is quite small and touristy, which means that connecting with the local culture might be a bit more difficult, although of course never impossible. Continue reading for tips for slow travelers and ways to engage with the local community in El Paredon!
Surfing in El Paredon
El Paredon is a surfer’s paradise, renowned for its consistent waves and laid-back surf culture. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, the local surf schools provide lessons and board rentals to suit all levels. Paredon Surf House and other local surf spots offer a welcoming community where you can improve your skills and share surf stories with fellow enthusiasts.
For those new to surfing, the friendly instructors ensure you feel confident in the water, making it an enjoyable experience. And for the seasoned surfers, the powerful waves and uncrowded beaches provide the perfect setting for catching some epic waves.
Explore the Mangroves in El Paredon
A boat tour through the nearby mangroves is a fun non-beach related activity in El Paredon. These tours offer a peaceful escape into a labyrinth of waterways, where you can observe a variety of bird species, and if you're lucky, spot some baby crocodiles. The mangroves are a vital part of the local ecosystem, and exploring them provides insight into the area's biodiversity.
These tours are typically guided by local fishermen who share their knowledge of the environment and the importance of conserving these precious habitats. It's a tranquil experience that brings you closer to the natural beauty of El Paredon.
Enjoy the Beach or Play Beachvolleyball in El Paredon
El Paredon’s black sand beaches are perfect for relaxation. Whether you’re lounging under a palm tree, taking long walks at sunset, or enjoying a yoga session by the sea, the beach offers a serene backdrop for unwinding. There are also various volleyball courts where you will find groups of people playing together. Last time I was there, it was a mixed group of locals and backpackers of various levels playing 6x6. If you want to join, all you have to do is ask or jump in after a finished set!
How is the party-scene in El Paredon?
Although I love to dance, I do not usually go to parties when travelling. Mostly because I like to start my days early after a good night of sleep, parties cut into my budget, and I prefer local dance places over backpacker-focused parties. However... there are exceptions and especially parties at the beach can be great fun! The weekly beach rave in Puerto Escondido, for example, was one of the highlights of my stay there.
Especially in the weekends various hostels at the beaches of El Paredon host parties with DJs, such as Driftwood Surfer Hostel and Mellow Hostel El Paredon. These parties are an attraction for many backpackers and you will likely run into travelers you have met before. Good news for the earlybirds: to limit the disturbance for the local community, parties always stop around midnight so you can be in bed early.
Note that if you do not like parties, it is better not stay in the Driftwood Surfer Hostel during the weekends as this is known to be quite the party hostel.
When is the best time to go to El Paredon?
The best time to visit is during Guatemala's dry season which is from around November to April. This is also the best time for surfing in El Paredon as heavy rains during the rainy season make the ocean very messy to surf. Moreover, this year (2024) the rains were so heavy at the beginning of the rainy season that lots of things washed up onto the beach and there were floodings.
Where to eat in El Paredon?
The culinary scene in El Paredon is modest but rich in flavor. Fresh seafood can be found at nearly every restaurant, with local eateries serving up delicious ceviche, grilled fish, and other coastal delights. For a true taste of Guatemalan cuisine, don’t miss out on trying traditional dishes like pepian and tamales at the local restaurants.
For vegans and vegetarians there are also plenty of options, for example at Cocorí Lodge and Buena Vista. A few streets away from the beach you can also find some cute local smoothie and breakfast places that offer smoothie bowls and - if you know me you know that I am OBSESSED with this since visiting Brazil - açaí!
A visit to the community kitchen at La Choza Chula offers a unique opportunity to learn how to cook traditional meals. These cooking classes, taught by local women, provide not only a delicious meal but also an authentic cultural exchange. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the community and bring a piece of El Paredon’s culinary heritage home with you.
Where to stay in El Paredon?
Hostels and Airbnbs
El Paredon offers a range of accommodations that cater to different preferences and budgets:
If you are looking for a highly social vibe (read: party vibe), Driftwood Surfer Hostel and Mellow Hostel El Paredon are popular among backpackers for its social vibe and beachfront location.
For backpackers on a budget looking for a social vibe but a little less parties (but still some parties), I can also recommend staying at Hostel Mi Casa en la Playa.
Cocorí Lodge El Paredon is known to offer a more tranquil experience with eco-friendly bungalows surrounded by nature, complete with yoga classes and wellness activities. However, when I was here on a Saturday, there was also a big party here.
There are also some hotels with private cabins looking out over the beaches that are worth checking out if you are travelling with two to four people. Especially Casa Zala appears to be gorgeous and has a private swimming pool. When I went, we stayed in an airbnb on five minutes walking from the beach, with a pool for about 25 USD a night for a room with two double beds.
If you are with two people and do not want to stay in a hostel, but your budget is too tight for a hotel, make sure to check out some of the Airbnb's. These have generally lower prices than the hotels (and are sometimes even cheaper than a hostel if you are with multiple people!) and have a kitchen for you to cook in, which also saves you money.
Homestays
For an immersive cultural experience, it is always worth considering staying with a local family. Homestays in Guatemala provide a unique opportunity to practice your Spanish, enjoy home-cooked meals, and gain deeper insights into the local way of life. In El Paredon, homestays used to be arranged through La Choza Chula, but they are now permanently closed. I have not heard of an alternative, so if you know where to book a homestay now, let me know!
Conclusion
El Paredon is a destination that captivates with its simplicity and beachy vibes. It’s a place where time slows down, and the natural beauty of Guatemala’s coastline takes center stage. Whether you’re surfing, exploring the mangroves, or simply relaxing on the beach, El Paredon offers a relaxing and enriching travel experience.
Pack your bags, embrace the slow travel philosophy, and discover the serene beauty of El Paredon. It’s a journey that promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Guatemala’s coasts and the Pacific Ocean.
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