El Paredón : Que Mettre dans sa Valise — Guide Complet

El Paredón Packing List — What to Bring to Guatemala's Beach Village

El Paredón is a small beach village with limited shopping options. There's no pharmacy, no supermarket, and no ATM. What you bring from Guatemala City or Antigua is what you've got. Here's the complete packing list.

Sun and Beach Essentials (Don't Skip These)

• High SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+) — The UV index at sea level in Guatemala is brutal. Bring more than you think you'll need. Reef-safe options preferred near the mangroves.
• Rashguard / UV shirt — For surfing, the black sand reflects heat back up and you'll burn faster in the water than on land.
• Sunglasses with UV protection — The glare off black sand and water is intense.
• Reusable water bottle — Plastic waste is a real problem at Pacific beaches. A good insulated bottle keeps drinks cold for hours.
• Flip flops / Sandalias — Don't walk barefoot on black sand at midday.
• A pair of closed shoes — The road through town is unpaved and dusty.

If You're Surfing

• Boardshorts or bikini — Wetsuits are not needed; water temperature is warm year-round (26–29°C).
• Surf wax (warm water) — Some rental boards come with wax, but bring your own if you're picky.
• Leash — If you have your own board. Rental boards include leashes.
• Small dry bag — For your phone and cash while in the water.

Book surf lessons in El Paredón →

Cash and Money

• Quetzales (Q) — There is no ATM in El Paredón. The nearest one is in La Avellana or Sipacate. Come with cash for your entire stay.
• Budget: Q200–400/day covers meals, drinks, and activities at mid-range. Budget surfers can get by on Q150. Boutique hotel guests will spend more.
• US Dollars — Some hotels accept USD but at poor exchange rates.

Clothing

• Light clothes only — It's hot and humid. Pack 2–3 quick-dry outfits maximum.
• Light layer for evenings — The sea breeze can get cool after sunset, especially November–February.
• Leave the fancy stuff at home — El Paredón is a beach village. Nobody dresses up. Your nicest outfit is clean board shorts and a casual shirt.

Health and Safety

• Basic first aid kit — Antiseptic, bandages, blister pads. Minor cuts from reef are possible.
• Electrolyte packets — Heat exhaustion is real. Especially important if you're surfing.
• Diarrhea medication — Montezuma's revenge is a real risk. Don't eat raw shellfish from unknown sources.
• Insect repellent — Mosquitoes are present, especially near the mangroves at dawn and dusk.
• Travel insurance — The nearest hospital with full services is in Escuintla, 1.5 hours away.

Electronics

• Power bank — Some budget guesthouses have inconsistent electricity.
• Waterproof phone case or dry bag — For beach and boat activities.
• Adapter — Guatemala uses US-style Type A plugs, 120V.

What NOT to Bring

• Valuables — Leave expensive jewelry, cameras, and electronics in your hotel safe in Guatemala City.
• White or light-colored clothing — Black sand stains everything. Darker colors or quick-dry synthetics are better.
• Heavy luggage — You'll carry your bag onto and off the ferry. Bring a 20–30L backpack maximum.

Before You Go

How to get to El Paredón → | Where to stay → | Activities in El Paredón →