Two nights would be optimal to explore and enjoy the the twin parks of Xetulul and Xocomil. A few hours is enough time to explore the ruins of Takalik Abaj, but the excellent accommodations at Takalik Maya Lodge might keep you busy for another two days.

From here or nearby Retalhuleu, you can explore the Manchón Guamuchal Wetland Preserve for some bird-watching or just unwind at its beautiful beaches. Retalhuleu also makes an excellent base for exploring some of the surrounding countryside by bike, thanks to the presence of an excellent outfitter based here.

If you are in search of sand and sun, you might find yourself spending several nights at Monterrico. If your interest lies in surfing, you’ll certainly want to spend a few days in Sipacate or Iztapa. For sailfishing, Iztapa is the place to go and you’ll probably spend at least three days here.

The 25-kilometers along the Iztapa–Monterrico Road is shaping up to be the closest thing to a Guatemalan Riviera and will certainly undergo some drastic changes in the next few years. For now, it’s still a sleepy seaside area largely dedicated to the production of loofah.

East toward El Salvador is another small seaside town, Las Lisas, with a couple of noteworthy accommodations.