Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
10 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
150 m
Tips
What to bring, best time, local rules
What to Bring
SPF50+ cream
Water
Towel
Hat
Sunglasses
Cash
First aid kit
Best Time to Swim
The best time to visit is from November to April, during the dry season. In the morning the water is calmer. Swimming is not recommended due to pollution.
Local Rules
Swimming is not recommended due to pollution. Do not leave litter. Follow safety rules.
Frequently asked questions
Playa Pública Chinimya: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey, clarity murky, average temperature +24.0°C, warms up to +26.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Pública Chinimya: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Playa Pública Chinimya: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 10 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Pública Chinimya: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — grey. Texture — medium. Beach length — 150 metres.
Playa Pública Chinimya: when is the swimming season?
The best month for a holiday is March. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Pública Chinimya: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as poor. Rip currents are unlikely. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Pública Chinimya: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Pública Chinimya: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Playa Pública Chinimya: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurante Café Arte, Local Eateries. Cuisines available: Guatemalan, Cafe. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Pública Chinimya: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Hat, Sunglasses, Cash, First aid kit.
Playa Pública Chinimya: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is from November to April, during the dry season. In the morning the water is calmer. Swimming is not recommended due to pollution.
Playa Pública Chinimya: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is not recommended due to pollution. Do not leave litter. Follow safety rules.
Playa Pública Chinimya: who is this beach best for?
Suitable for walks and observing local life. Not suitable for swimming and family holidays due to pollution.
Playa Pública Chinimya: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is the main pier of Santiago Atitlan, from where boats depart to other lake towns. Nearby is a new 82-metre floating pier opened in 2017.
Playa Pública Chinimya: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Scenic views of Lake Atitlan and San Pedro Volcano, Near the pier, Local craft shops, Authentic atmosphere, Free access. Cons: Beach often full of trash and azolla, Swimming not recommended, No lifeguards, Limited infrastructure, Few restaurants on the beach.
Playa Pública Chinimya: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: San Pedro Volcano, Santiago Atitlán, Playa Xechivoy. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Pública Chinimya: how do I get to the city of Santiago Atitlán?
The beach is located near the city of Santiago Atitlán. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Santiago Atitlán.