Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
black
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
medium
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
15 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
recommended
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Cena: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity moderate, average temperature +28.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Cena: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — strong. Average wave height — 1.5 m. Strong waves will please surfers but require caution when swimming with children.
Playa Cena: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — medium. The shallow area extends for 15 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. It is recommended to bring aqua shoes — parts of the bottom have rocks or corals.
Playa Cena: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — black. Texture — medium. Beach length — 1 000 metres.
Playa Cena: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in November, December. It ends in March. The best month for a holiday is November. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Cena: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Cena: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: stingrays, crocodiles. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Cena: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Cena: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Playa Cena: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurants in Monterrico. Cuisines available: Guatemalan. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Cena: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Towel, Swimsuit, Cash, Water.
Playa Cena: when is the best time to swim?
Dry season from November to March is the best time to visit. Morning water is calmer and fewer people.
Playa Cena: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not leave litter. Be careful when swimming. Respect local residents.
Playa Cena: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Cena: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for travellers seeking a wild Pacific beach with black volcanic sand and powerful waves for surfing. Not suitable for families with small children due to strong currents.
Playa Cena: what makes this beach unique?
Black volcanic sand and powerful Pacific Ocean waves. Nearby are the mangroves of the Chiquimulilla canal, where turtles can be observed.
Playa Cena: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Black volcanic sand, Powerful waves for surfing, Beautiful sunsets, Nearby mangroves, Turtle watching, Authentic atmosphere, Free access. Cons: Can be crowded on weekends, Limited infrastructure, No lifeguards, Strong waves, Litter in some areas, Paid parking.
Playa Cena: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Monterrico, Chiquimulilla Canal, Monterrico Reserve. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Cena: how do I get to the city of Taxisco?
The beach is located near the city of Taxisco. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Taxisco.