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Monterrico

Guatemala · Coast · GTQ · 13.894900, -90.485100
Family friendly 6.7/10 · Rank 1024 of 2 709
Best season: November-April

Best for

Families with children, nature and turtle lovers, surfers, seekers of quiet holidays

Best season

November-April

Daily budget
$89.00 (≈ 7 469 ₽)
For 7 days
$623.00 (≈ 52 282 ₽)
Monterrico is the main beach resort on Guatemala's Pacific coast with unique black volcanic sand. Here you can observe sea turtles nesting on these sands from June to October. Quiet and uncrowded beaches make this place ideal for a peaceful getaway.
Summer
34.0°C
Winter
22.0°C
Sea
30.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Friendly, calm, hospitable, appreciating nature

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Black volcanic sand
  • Turtle project and reserve
  • Scenic sunsets
  • Affordable prices
  • Fresh seafood

Cons

  • Dangerous rip currents
  • Black sand gets very hot
  • Many mosquitoes in the rainy season
  • Limited nightlife
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
28.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
32.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
34.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
27.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
31.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
22.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
30.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
May-October
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
black
Water Entry
Type of water entry
steep
Waves
Level of waves
strong
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
moderate
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Monterrico Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
Yes
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
No
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
high
Note

Main dangers: strong rip currents and short dangerous waves. Swimming is not recommended, lifeguards are on duty only on weekends

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins in the coastal waters of Monterrico do not pose a danger to swimmers
  • Water shoes are recommended for swimming in rocky areas

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs are absent near Monterrico
  • No danger to swimmers

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are found in coastal waters of Monterrico, especially during the rainy season
  • Jellyfish can cause mild skin irritation on contact, avoid them

Sharks — details

  • Sharks in coastal waters of Monterrico do not pose a danger to humans
  • Only small species occur that do not attack humans
Attractions

Monterrico Beach

Guatemala's most popular beach with black volcanic sand and strong waves, popular for surfing

Monterrico Reserve

Nature reserve with mangroves, home to turtles, crocodiles and many birds

Turtle Project

Sea turtle conservation project where you can see turtle nests and release hatchlings into the sea

Chiquiulilla Canal

Scenic canal with mangrove tunnels, popular for boat trips

Playa Negra

Black sand beach, popular for sunset watching and horseback riding

Best areas

Beachfront

Hotels and restaurants along the beach with direct sea access

Town Centre

Compact centre with shops, markets and restaurants

Must-try food

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onion and cilantro

Pescado Frito

Fried fish, popular coastal dish

Camaronés

Fresh shrimp grilled or in garlic sauce

Tamale

Traditional dish of corn dough with filling, wrapped in banana leaf

Gallo en Ceviche

Traditional Guatemalan fish ceviche with tomato sauce

Where to go next

Antigua

Colonial city with museums and volcanoes, 2 hours by car

Guatemala City

Capital with museums and markets, 2 hours by car

Playa Blanca

Scenic Caribbean beach, 4 hours by car

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
medium
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт Ла-Аурора (GUA).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
November-April
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$65.00
≈ 5 455 ₽
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$114.00
≈ 9 567 ₽
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$200.00
≈ 16 784 ₽
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$171.00
≈ 14 350 ₽
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽
Burger
Average price for a burger
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
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Frequently asked questions
Monterrico: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is November-April. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Monterrico: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +34.0°C, during the day — up to +32.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Monterrico: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +22.0°C, during the day — up to +31.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Monterrico: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Monterrico: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Monterrico: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, black sand, moderate water. The most popular beaches: Monterrico Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Monterrico: is it safe to swim in the sea?
The overall danger level in the sea is rated as high — swimming is only recommended in specially designated areas. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Monterrico: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. Main dangers: strong rip currents and short dangerous waves. Swimming is not recommended, lifeguards are on duty only on weekends. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Monterrico: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $89.00 (≈ 7 469 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Monterrico: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $12.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $65.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $114.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $200.00 per night, an apartment — $80.00 per night, a villa — $171.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Monterrico: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $6.00, dinner at a restaurant — $15.00, a cup of cappuccino — $2.00, a 0.5L beer — $2.00, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Monterrico: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $50.00, a single public transport ticket — $1.00, a short taxi ride — $5.00, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Monterrico: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Monterrico Beach — Guatemala's most popular beach with black volcanic sand and strong waves, popular for surfing; Monterrico Reserve — Nature reserve with mangroves, home to turtles, crocodiles and many birds; Turtle Project — Sea turtle conservation project where you can see turtle nests and release hatchlings into the sea; Chiquiulilla Canal — Scenic canal with mangrove tunnels, popular for boat trips; Playa Negra — Black sand beach, popular for sunset watching and horseback riding. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Monterrico: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Ceviche — Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onion and cilantro; Pescado Frito — Fried fish, popular coastal dish; Camaronés — Fresh shrimp grilled or in garlic sauce; Tamale — Traditional dish of corn dough with filling, wrapped in banana leaf; Gallo en Ceviche — Traditional Guatemalan fish ceviche with tomato sauce. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Monterrico: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Beachfront — Hotels and restaurants along the beach with direct sea access; Town Centre — Compact centre with shops, markets and restaurants. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Monterrico: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Monterrico: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт Ла-Аурора (code GUA). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $50.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Monterrico: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — GTQ. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $89.00 (≈ 7 469 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Monterrico: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Monterrico: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as medium. There is a good choice of bars and restaurants, but without excessive noise.
Monterrico: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Antigua — Colonial city with museums and volcanoes, 2 hours by car; Guatemala City — Capital with museums and markets, 2 hours by car; Playa Blanca — Scenic Caribbean beach, 4 hours by car. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

6.7/10
Overall rank: 1024 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 708