El Paredón
El Paredón is Guatemala's emerging surf destination—a black volcanic sand beach on the remote Pacific coast that catches SW swells consistently from March-October. The fishing village is basic but charming, with a small but growing infrastructure of surf camps and local guides. The waves are fun and punchy, suitable for intermediates, with warm water and uncrowded lineups. For surfers looking to explore Central America beyond the usual destinations, El Paredón offers authentic adventure.
El Paredón surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (200°)
- Direction range
- 170° - 240°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.8m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- N (0°)
- Offshore range
- 330° - 60°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.8m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Remote fishing village. Basic infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at El Paredón?
The El Paredón profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.3m and 1.8m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at El Paredón?
The El Paredón profile uses wind from N (0°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 330° to 60°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at El Paredón?
The El Paredón scoring profile favors swell from SSW (170° to 240°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 3m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf El Paredón?
The main season at El Paredón is Mar-Oct. A secondary window runs Nov, Feb. March-October SW swell season. Consistent beach breaks.
How do I get to El Paredón?
The spot profile lists GUA as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 150 minutes. Remote fishing village. Basic infrastructure.
What kind of wave is El Paredón?
El Paredón is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 4/10.
Best Season
Peak: Mar-Oct
Secondary: Nov, Feb
March-October SW swell season. Consistent beach breaks.
Getting There
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