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Bay Bridge at Sunrise
Bay Bridge at Sunrise - Photo by Oliver Plattner

Discover the Unrivaled Beauty of Puerto San Jose, Guatemala –

About Puerto San Jose, Guatemala

Discover Puerto San Jose, Guatemala, a hidden gem on the Pacific coast. Relax on the pristine beaches, sample the fresh seafood, and explore nearby wildlife reserves. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Puerto San Jose is the perfect destination for your next getaway.

When looking for a travel destination that offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, look no further than Puerto San Jose, Guatemala. Located on the Pacific coast of the country, this small town offers stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and plenty of opportunities for adventure.

One of the main draws of Puerto San Jose is its beaches. The town boasts a long stretch of sandy shoreline, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. For those looking for something more active, the beach is also a popular spot for surfing and paddleboarding. And if you're lucky, you might even spot some sea turtles during nesting season.

Beyond the beach, Puerto San Jose is also home to a number of cultural attractions. The town's central plaza is a great place to start, with its colorful buildings and bustling market stalls. Nearby, you'll find the San Francisco de Asis church, a beautiful colonial-era building with stunning architecture.

For those interested in history, a visit to the nearby Mayan ruins of Takalik Abaj is a must. This ancient city was once an important center of Mayan civilization, and is home to a number of impressive stone sculptures and other artifacts.

Of course, no trip to Puerto San Jose would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. Seafood is a must-try here, with dishes like ceviche and grilled shrimp being particular highlights. And if you're feeling adventurous, be sure to try some of the local street food, like tamales and pupusas.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled getaway, Puerto San Jose has it all. So why not add it to your travel bucket list today?

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Things to do in Puerto San Jose, Guatemala

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Puerto San Jose, Guatemala

The attraction is to be in one of the most beautiful lakes around the world, having the experience to interact with the Mayan people, to be in the middle of coffee fields to admire 7 volcanoes on the road. Look how to change vegetation depending on altitude, sugar fields, the awesome lookout points, makes the best experience to be in Guatemala recommended for everyone that likes countryside, nature, culture and outdoor activities.
This tour is tailormade for cruise ship passengers. We will pick you up at Puerto Quetzal Pacific Ocean Cruise Port or at Marina Pez Vela as soon as the ship embarks. Iximche is a fascinating place. This was one of the main Mayan cities visited by the Spaniards in 1524, declared the first capital of the Kingdom of Guatemala. You will be able to see the old pyramids built by the Maya, and some of the most active Ceremonial Altars where contemporary Maya use to perform ancient rituals and burn offerings to their ancestors.We will get you back on time before the cruise sets sail.
When your cruise ship docks in the port of Puerto Quetzal, visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed Antigua Guatemala. During your shore excursion, a local guide leads you on a walking tour to the city’s central plaza and offers expert commentary about colonial monuments, such as La Merced Church and the main cathedral. You’ll pass under the 17th-century Santa Catalina Arch on this full-day sightseeing tour, which includes lunch and round-trip transport from the cruise terminal.
This community tour promotes the integral development of a generally marginalized community in Jocotenango and allows visitors to witness social transformation through art. The tour was designed and is guided by young artists and activists from the same community, all activities within the tour are approved and supported by residents of the village to which it is visited and contribute to its integral development. The tour uses TukTuks to transport visitors from the starting point to each point of the itinerary, that is: from La Azotea to the square, from the square to the bus station, from the bus station to the Vista Hermosa community and from Vista Hermosa back to the starting point, La Azotea. The cost of the tour includes this transportation.
Depart from Puerto Quetzal and enjoy the amazing Antigua Guatemala. This city is outstanding and the best-preserved colonial city in Latin America. Tourists visit Antigua, Guatemala every year from around the world to enjoy its natural beauty and historical monuments. The Spanish Colonial style permeates every part of the town: its houses, churches, squares, parks and ruins, also its traditions and folklore as well. Antigua is a city of charm and color where you can see and buy an overwhelming variety of attractive, handmade products that honor the traditions of generations of artisans
Welcome to Guatemala! In the south of Guatemala there is a good hotspot to bird watching this is known like El paredon. You can have a good experience on the mangrove through our expert guide and a local guide will paddle you through the mangroves helping you spot resident, regional endemic and migratory birds and local wildlife.

Why People Love Puerto San Jose, Guatemala

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Puerto San Jose, Guatemala

K
Ken_Y
5
Mar 2023
The tour was amazing, Ruben was an excellent guide full of information. The driver Miguel was a safe driver with all the crazy drivers around. Highly recommended best tour of our cruise!
JL
Joani L
5
Feb 2019
Juan Pablo was an excellent guide. I enjoy local tours so much vs the big crowds of cruise excursions. There were four (4) of us! We toured in a comfortable van, saw the volcanoes & the City of Antigua. My husband bought me a beautiful jade & pearl necklace & earrings at the jade factory. There ...
T
Tammy_K
5
Jan 2023
We had a great guide who spoke good English and was very knowledgeable about Antigua. It was a beautiful day in a beautiful city!

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Frequently Asked Questions about Puerto San Jose

What are the must-see attractions in Puerto San Jose?

Puerto San Jose is a beautiful coastal city in Guatemala, offering plenty of attractions and activities for visitors. Some of the must-see attractions include the historic San Jose Fort, the local market, and the beautiful beaches. San Jose Fort was built in 1754 to defend the port from pirates and serves as a museum today. The local market, known as Mercado de Artesanias, is a great place to purchase handmade Guatemalan crafts and souvenirs. The beaches in Puerto San Jose are also a popular attraction, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

What are the best activities to do in Puerto San Jose?

There are plenty of fun activities to do in Puerto San Jose. Some of the best activities include visiting the local zoo, taking a boat tour of the coast, and exploring the mangrove forests. The local zoo, known as Xocomil Zoo, has a variety of animals including jaguars, monkeys, and exotic birds. Taking a boat tour of the coast is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and perhaps even spot some dolphins or whales. Exploring the mangrove forests is a unique experience, where you can see the unique flora and fauna of the region and learn about the important role mangroves play in the ecosystem.

What are the best beaches to visit in Puerto San Jose?

Puerto San Jose is known for its beautiful beaches. Some of the best beaches to visit include Playa Juan Soldado, Playa Dorada, and Playa Tilapa. Playa Juan Soldado is a popular beach for swimming and sunbathing, with calm waters and soft sand. Playa Dorada is a great beach for surfing, with consistent waves and a lively atmosphere. Playa Tilapa is a secluded beach, only accessible by boat, that offers a more private and peaceful experience.

What are the best restaurants in Puerto San Jose?

Puerto San Jose has a variety of restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. Some of the best restaurants include Mariscos Tito's, Restaurante El Pescador, and La Casita del Mar. Mariscos Tito's is known for its fresh seafood and ceviche. Restaurante El Pescador is a popular spot for traditional Guatemalan dishes like churrasco and pepian. La Casita del Mar is a beachside restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and great seafood.

What is the best time of year to visit Puerto San Jose?

The best time to visit Puerto San Jose is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny with little rainfall. The rainy season, from May to October, can be quite wet and humid, so it's best to avoid visiting during this time if possible.

What are the best accommodations in Puerto San Jose?

Puerto San Jose has a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the best options include Hotel Soleil Pacifico, Hotel El Delfin, and Hotel Costa Azul. Hotel Soleil Pacifico is a luxurious resort with spacious rooms, multiple pools, and a private beach. Hotel El Delfin is a more affordable option with comfortable rooms and a great location near the beach. Hotel Costa Azul is a family-friendly hotel with a pool, restaurant, and direct access to the beach.

What is the local culture like in Puerto San Jose?

Puerto San Jose has a rich and vibrant culture, heavily influenced by its coastal location and Mayan heritage. The local people are friendly and welcoming, and many speak both Spanish and the local dialect of Kaqchikel. The city is known for its lively music and dance scene, with many festivals and celebrations throughout the year. The food in Puerto San Jose is also a reflection of the local culture, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood and traditional Mayan dishes.

What is the best way to get around Puerto San Jose?

The best way to get around Puerto San Jose is by car or taxi. There are also local buses available, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. If you plan on exploring the surrounding areas, renting a car is a good option. However, if you plan on staying within the city, taxis are readily available and affordable.

What are some unique experiences to have in Puerto San Jose?

Puerto San Jose offers many unique experiences for visitors. One of the most popular is taking a boat tour of the nearby mangrove forests, where you can see a variety of wildlife and learn about the important role mangroves play in the ecosystem. Another unique experience is visiting the local market, Mercado de Artesanias, where you can purchase handmade Guatemalan crafts and souvenirs. For an even more unique experience, consider taking a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Guatemalan dishes.

What are some safety tips for traveling to Puerto San Jose?

Puerto San Jose is generally a safe city, but it's important to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Some safety tips to keep in mind include: avoiding walking alone at night, keeping valuables out of sight, and being aware of your surroundings. It's also a good idea to carry a copy of your passport and important documents with you at all times, and to keep some cash on hand in case of emergency.