In Monterrico and on El Paredón's gentler shoreline, a boogie board is the perfect entry point to the ocean for anyone who isn't ready to stand up on a surfboard yet. It costs a fraction of the price, needs no lessons, and within 10 minutes you're already catching whitewater waves. Here's what actually makes a boogie board good — not just good-looking.
What Makes a Boogie Board Good
Core: EPS (expanded polystyrene foam) is the standard — lightweight with good flotation. Bottom skin: smooth HDPE glides faster across the water than a textured bottom; look for it if speed matters to you. Size: as a rule, the board should reach somewhere between your belly button and your chest when standing next to it — too short and it floats poorly, too long and it's hard to control. Leash: not optional — without one, the board takes off with the first wave that knocks you over.
The Boogie Boards We Recommend
MOREY Cruiser — Original 42.5" Bodyboard with HDPE Bottom
The Morey is literally the board that invented the category back in the '70s — a smooth HDPE bottom for fast gliding, full size for adults of every skill level.
⭐ 5.0/5 on Amazon
See price on Amazon →
Wham-O Boogie Board 33"/37" with Wrist Leash
Wham-O is the original brand behind the name "Boogie Board" — the pick with the most history if you're after the classic, tried-and-true design.
⭐ 3.5/5 on Amazon
See price on Amazon →
Lightweight EPS Core Bodyboard with Adjustable Leash
A lightweight EPS core with a smooth HDPE base — the right balance of flotation and speed for someone just starting out.
⭐ 4.6/5 on Amazon
See price on Amazon →
Reed 33" Body Board with Coiled Double-Swivel Leash
A double-swivel wrist leash so you don't get tangled while paddling for the wave — a detail cheaper boards usually skip.
⭐ 4.6/5 on Amazon
See price on Amazon →
Foldable Inflatable Boogie Board, Lightweight for Travel
An inflatable, foldable version — it fits in a carry-on, ideal if you're traveling and don't want to lug a rigid board the whole trip.
⭐ 4.8/5 on Amazon
See price on Amazon →| Board | Size | Core | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morey Cruiser | 42.5" | HDPE bottom | Adults, all levels |
| Wham-O classic | 33"/37" | EPS | The original name, kids and teens |
| Lightweight EPS | Adjustable | EPS + smooth HDPE | Beginners in general |
| Reed 33" | 33" | EPS | Kids and lighter adults |
| Foldable inflatable | Compact | PVC | Traveling without a rigid board |
Frequently Asked Questions
What size boogie board do I need?
Standing next to the board, it should come up somewhere between your belly button and your chest. Too short for your weight and it floats poorly; too long and it's hard to turn on the wave.
Can it be used on El Paredón's beach?
Yes, it's ideal in the whitewater zone near the shore — the stronger swell at the main break is experienced-surfer territory.
Do I need fins to use a boogie board?
They're not required to get started, but they help a lot with pushing you into the wave. If you get serious about it, add them later.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The price you pay doesn't change.
More travel guides
From the official blog
Everything you need to know to visit El Paredón: how to get there, where to stay, what ...
El Paredón is the best surf destination in Guatemala. Waves for all levels, certified s...
The 10 most impressive beaches in Guatemala ranked: surf, nature, atmosphere, and acces...
Reasons to choose the Surf House in El Paredón: facilities, accommodation, surf lessons...
True story of learning to surf in El Paredón, Guatemala: lessons, first waves, wipeouts...
Ecotourism in El Paredón: mangroves, turtle release, migratory birds, and marine conser...