Long-overlooked by travelers to Guatemala because of the absence of wide sandy beaches, the country’s Pacific Coast is increasingly finding its way onto many travelers’ itineraries. Cruise ships now regularly dock at Puerto San José, taking day-trippers inland to Antigua and some area attractions. While many of the Pacific Coast beaches are not particularly good for swimming because of riptides, they are noteworthy because of their dark sand, the product of nearby volcanoes, which can be seen in the distance on a clear day.

The Pacific slope is a very distinct geographic region characterized by a rather dramatic decrease in elevation from the mountainous highlands to the north. The daily high temperatures here hover at around 85°F year-round, but they are cooled by a fairly constant breeze the closer you get to the ocean. The region is home to vast sugarcane, coffee, and cotton plantations, which have dominated the local economy for centuries.

Adding to its economic prominence is the presence of some important ports, including Puerto San José and Puerto Quetzal. The Canal de Chiquimulilla runs from the coastal town of Sipacate east all the way to Las Lisas near the Salvadoran border, forming a large barrier island along much of the coast. You’ll have to cross this canal to get to many of Guatemala’s beach towns. Tourism is just now becoming an important player in the regional economy.

The Pacific Coast has several attractions to recommend it, including the world-class Xocomil Water Park and Xetulul Amusement Park, the archaeological site of Takalik Abaj, the sea turtle preserve at Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii, an emerging surf scene in Sipacate, and some of the best sailfishing in the world at Iztapa. All of these are becoming more easily accessible with plans for a trans-Pacific highway, at least two regional airports and, eventually, the construction of a new international airport to serve Guatemala City.

In addition to the dark-sand beaches and volcanoes, the Pacific Coast offers the chance to enjoy a holiday in warm tropical weather, relaxing in a hammock strung between graceful coconut palms. This can be a welcome respite from an extended stay in the more temperate (and sometimes chilly) Guatemalan highlands.

The Best of Guatemala’s Pacific Coast

• Xocomil Water Park and Xetulul Amusement Park
• Takalik Abaj
• Manchón Guamuchal Wetland Preserve
• Iztapa
• Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii