Surf Guatemala with Paredon Surf House. A relaxing and welcoming beach house located in the small fishing village of El Paredon, PSH offers accommodation, surfing, surf school, cool activities and tours.
Sipacate, a hidden gem on Guatemala's Pacific coast, offers miles of uncrowded beach breaks perfect for surfers of all levels. Discover a true surfer's paradise with consistent waves and a laid-back vibe, just a stone's throw from the popular El Pare
The Vibe
Sipacate is the chiller, less-crowded cousin to the more famous El Paredon. If you're looking to escape the crowds and find your own peak, this is the spot. The vibe here is super laid-back, with a sleepy fishing village feel. It's the kind of place where you can surf all day, then kick back in a hammock with a cold Gallo and watch the sunset. You won't find any high-rise hotels or fancy restaurants here, just a handful of local surf camps and comedores serving up fresh, delicious food.
The Waves
The main draw in Sipacate is the miles of empty beach breaks. The sandy bottom means you don't have to worry about reefs, and the waves are consistent year-round. You'll find both lefts and rights, with the best swells coming from the southwest. The waves here are powerful and can get pretty hollow, so there's plenty of fun to be had for experienced surfers. But don't worry if you're just starting out, there are mellower sections of the beach that are perfect for learning.
When to Go
You can score waves in Sipacate pretty much any time of year, but the prime season is from March to October. This is when the south swells are most consistent, and you'll have the best chance of catching those perfect, glassy conditions. The rainy season, from June to October, can actually be a great time to visit, as the storms often produce bigger and cleaner swells. The shoulder months of November and December can also be a good bet, with clean conditions and fewer people in the water.
Who is it for?
Sipacate is a great destination for surfers of all levels. Beginners will find plenty of gentle waves to learn on, especially at low tide. Intermediate and advanced surfers will love the powerful, hollow waves that can be found at mid to high tide. Because it's less crowded than other spots in Guatemala, it's a great place to progress your surfing without having to battle for waves. It's also a great spot for anyone looking for a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path surf trip.
What makes it special?
What makes Sipacate truly special is the feeling of discovery. It's a place where you can still find that classic surf adventure vibe. The uncrowded waves, the friendly locals, and the beautiful natural scenery all combine to create a truly unique experience. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time surfer, Sipacate has something to offer. So pack your bags, grab your board, and get ready to score some of the best waves of your life.
The best time to surf in Sipacate depends on your skill level. For experienced surfers seeking powerful, barreling waves, the summer months from June to September are ideal. This period coincides with the rainy season, which brings the biggest and cleanest swells. If you're a beginner or intermediate surfer, the shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) and fall (October-November) offer smaller, more manageable waves. Even in the winter, from December to February, you can find fun, peaky waves and plenty of whitewater for learning.
Sipacate caters to all skill levels. The long, sandy beach break provides a variety of waves suitable for everyone from first-timers to seasoned pros. Beginners will find plenty of gentle whitewater to practice on, especially during the spring and fall. Intermediate surfers can enjoy the numerous peaks along the beach, while advanced surfers can challenge themselves with the more powerful and hollow waves found near the entrance to the lagoon.
The water in Sipacate is warm and inviting year-round, with an average temperature of about 84-85°F (29°C). You can comfortably surf in boardshorts or a bikini. A rashguard is recommended for sun protection, but you won't need a wetsuit.
For your surf trip to Sipacate, pack light and for warm weather. Essentials include: your favorite surfboard, boardshorts/bikini, a rashguard for sun protection, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a good book for relaxing in a hammock. If you're visiting during the rainy season (May to October), a light rain jacket is a good idea. For more packing tips, check out our Guatemala packing list.
Sipacate has a laid-back and friendly local culture. The town has a relaxed, uncrowded vibe, making it a perfect escape. The local cuisine is a highlight, with an abundance of fresh seafood. Be sure to try the local ceviche and grilled fish. You'll find small, family-run restaurants (comedores) serving delicious and affordable traditional Guatemalan dishes.
Sipacate is a relatively affordable surf destination. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to more comfortable hotels. Food is inexpensive, especially at local comedores. You can find surf lessons and board rentals at reasonable prices. For a detailed breakdown of costs, check out our Sipacate surf camps.
Sipacate is considered a safe and tranquil destination for tourists. The local community is welcoming to visitors. As with any travel, it's always wise to take standard precautions: be aware of your surroundings, don't leave valuables unattended on the beach, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
While surfing is the main draw, there are other attractions to explore near Sipacate. You can take a boat tour of the nearby mangrove forests, go birdwatching, or visit the sea turtle hatchery. The neighboring surf towns of El Paredon and Iztapa are also worth a visit for a change of scenery and different waves.
