Every now and then, you hear about a beach and its surroundings that seem so unique and unusual that you have to look deeper. Livingston, Guatemala’s beaches and culture seem to have done that for me. It makes me wonder, what’s special about Livingston, Guatemala, and its beaches?
So, what can you see at the Livingston, Guatemala beach? One can see several beaches with a tropical feel, white sand, and blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. Two fairly large public beaches are not crowded, Playa Blanca and Playa Caletas.
Livingston Beach in Guatemala is a collection of pristine white sand beaches with crystal blue waters and a tropical jungle backdrop. Only an hour from Guatemala City, this beach getaway is ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds of more touristy locales.
Unforgettable and secluded, the beaches are private and perfect for relaxing on the beach or swimming in the warm ocean waters. Accommodations are rustic but comfortable and affordable, and the waters are calm and perfect for swimming or snorkeling. The beach is also a popular spot for surfing and kiteboarding. I’ll cover what there is to do in Livingston, what it’s famous for and much more. Stay tuned and keep reading!
What Is Livingston Guatemala Known For?
Livingston Guatemala is known for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and beautiful beaches. The town is also a hotspot for tourism.
-Livingston Guatemala is known for its natural beauty and is a great place to relax.
-The Garifuna people are very proud of their heritage.
The town hosts an annual festival called “The Marine Festival” that celebrates the area’s marine life.
-You can learn more about their culture at the cultural center in town.
Livingston is also home to some amazing waterfalls, including Los Siete Altares. If you’re looking for a place to swim, check out the rockpools near the beach. And if you’re a nature lover, be sure to go birding while you’re here!
Livingston Is Known for Its World-Renowned Iguana Dance
Livingston is world-renowned for its Iguana dance, performed by the Garifuna. The Garifuna are a mix of Carib and African people who settled in Livingston in the early 1800s. They are known for their unique music and dancing.
Iguana is the main attraction for visitors to Livingston. These lizards can be seen sunning themselves on trees and buildings, and they are fascinating to watch. The best time to see them is during business hours when they are out and about. Livingston has many local shops and restaurants to explore, including the main drag.
The locals use rum to make a beer called gifiti. Gifi is insanely strong, so beware!
Livingston Is a Great Place to Visit for Those Interested in Nature and Outdoor Activities
Livingston is a great place to visit for those interested in nature and outdoor activities. Once a seaport, the town is considered one of Central America’s cultural centers. The Spanish invested in Livingston and left significant infrastructure behind, including roads still in use today. It is considered a safe and restful stopover for travelers to Southern Belize, Semuc Champey, Honduras coast, or Guatemala City. Livingston has a private dock where tourists can stay in one of the hotels from La Casa Rosada.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Guatemala Beaches? Livingston Beaches in Guatemala
The best time to visit the Guatemala beaches is between December and April. The weather is milder during this period, and you are less likely to experience rainfall.
Additionally, if you are looking to see baby sea turtles hatch and be released into the ocean, you should visit during the summertime on the Pacific coast. Swells will be smaller during this time, making it ideal for surfers and body-boarders. The surfing season in Guatemala starts around May and lasts until December.
Attractions, Food, and Culture Are Something to Enjoy
-Livingston, Guatemala, is remote and only accessible by boat.
-Livingston, Guatemala, offers a beautiful setting with stunning beaches.
-Garifuna culture is prevalent throughout Livingston and is abundant in the area’s attractions.
Livingston boasts great weather year-round, making it a great place to visit any time of the year.
Another thing to note about Livingston is that it’s much cheaper than other beach destinations in Guatemala. The best time to visit the Livingston beaches is during the low season when there isn’t much tourism or boat transportation needed for tours.
Several attractions close by are worth visiting even though they require an expensive bus or boat ride to get there (e.g., Maya ruins at Yaxha National Park).
One final recommendation: make sure to enjoy the food and nightlife in Livingston! There are many restaurants and bars to choose from, making it easy to find food during your stay. You can also reach many nearby countries by taking a taxi to or from Livingston (e.g., Belize and Honduras).
Caribbean Coast of Livingston – Best Beaches to Visit in Livingston
The Caribbean Coast of Livingston is a region of the island nation Belize. The coastline is characterized by its secluded coves and beaches only accessible by boat or plane.
Livingston is located on the Caribbean Coast of Guatemala. The beaches here are beautiful and well worth a visit. However, getting to Livingston can be a long journey. It’s worth it, though, for the incredible views of the beachfront.
Livingston is home to the Garifunas people, who have their own unique culture and language. Livingston also has a mix of indigenous and non-indigenous people, making it an interesting place to visit.
Even though Livingston is far away from other tourist destinations in Guatemala, it’s worth visiting. The beaches here are some of the best on the Caribbean Coast, and you’ll get to experience a different side of Guatemala.
Visit Punta Dulce and Dance the Night Away
Punta de Manabique is one of the most important birding sites in Guatemala. If you’re looking for a place to bird, this is it! The area is also home to Howler monkeys and other mammals. Fronteras Rio Dulce takes about 1-2 hours to get to Livingston. Guesthouses will have up-to-date information on when and where boats leave for Livingston. Once you’re there, be sure to enjoy the nightlife – there are plenty of restaurants and bars that will keep you dancing all night long!
Visit Playa Town and Have a Drink at Rosada
Playa Town is a great option if you’re looking for a place to relax and take in the Caribbean atmosphere. It’s not a busy tourist destination, so that you can soak up the local flavor. There are no hotels nearby, but there are several restaurants and bars.
Visit the altars if you’re looking for a unique experience while in Livingston. These altars are scattered throughout the town and offer a great insight into the region’s culture. The entrance to this castle costs 20Q per person, with or without an admission ticket. You can find a ferry from Puerto Barrios to Punta Gorda in Belize – it’s just a short ride away!
Cruises around the Rio Dulce offer a great opportunity for seafaring admirers, and land-lubbers need not worry about getting their feet wet. Puerto Barrios is just across the river from Livingston, making it an ideal destination for travelers who want to plan adventures before heading over to Guatemala City or Tikal’s archaeological site.
Visit Sea Gardens and Enjoy the Waterfalls
Sea Gardens is a beautiful place to visit, and the waterfalls are worth seeing.
The gardens are open from 9 am to 6 pm, and the falls are open from 8 am to 5 pm.
It’s best to visit Sea Gardens in the morning or the late afternoon/early evening.
Bring your bathing suit to enjoy a swim in the pool after visiting the falls!
What to Expect at Livingston Beaches
The Livingston beaches are a must-see for anyone visiting Guatemala. The area is known for its stunningly beautiful landscape and crystal clear waters. You can find all sorts of activities to enjoy here, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and fishing.
April is the best time to visit Livingston because the weather is perfect and there aren’t many tourists around yet. However, even during the high season, from December to April, you’ll find that the beaches are not as crowded as other popular beach destinations in Central America.
One of the great things about these beaches is that they offer a wide variety of excursions for visitors to choose from. You can explore ancient Mayan ruins, abandoned cities, caves hidden in the jungle, etc. Plus, since most people visit Livingston for its natural beauty and tranquility, you’re sure to have some peaceful and relaxing moments on these gorgeous shores.
Playa Blanca, Guatemala
Playa Blanca is located in the south of Guatemala, between Lake Atitlán and Volcano San Pedro. Playa Blanca has an amazing climate, beautiful beaches, and friendly people.
It is a small town with a population of about 10,000 inhabitants. There are no hotels or restaurants here, but there are plenty of places where you can eat and drink.
Here are 3 things to do in Playa Blanca:
1. Visit the Volcan de Agua Negra
This volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. It is located in the north of the country, near the border with Mexico.
There are two lakes nearby: Laguna del Diablo and Laguna Grande. They are very popular among tourists.
2. Go to the Lagoon of San Juan
This lagoon is located in the middle of the city. It is surrounded by a forest and has a beautiful view.
3. Take a Walk in The Forest
The forest is full of plants and animals. If you go there early in the morning, you may see butterflies and birds.
In addition, you can visit the ruins of the ancient Mayan civilization.
Playa Caletas, Guatemala
It has an amazing view of Lake Atitlan and the volcanoes of San Pedro Cajon de la Virgen and Santa María.
There are many things to do in Playa Caletas Guatemala. Here are 3 of them.
1. Visit the Volcano
This is the main attraction of Playa Caletas. This volcano is located about 2 hours away from Guatemala City.
When you visit the volcano, you will see its crater lake, where you can swim and enjoy the view of the volcanos.
2. Go Fishing
Fishing is another activity you can do in Playa Caletas. There are many lakes near the town.
You can go fishing there.
3. Enjoy the Nature
There are many nature trails in Playa Caletas. You can walk there and enjoy the beauty of the place.
You can also go hiking there.
Caribbean Coast of Livingston
Check Out The Iguanas at World’s End
Livingston is a great place to visit, especially if you’re looking to see some amazing wildlife. In particular, check out the iguanas at World’s End – they’re something special!
July is the hottest month in Livingston, so pack plenty of sunscreen and drink lots of water.
And don’t forget to download the “Budget” app before you go – it can help you save money while traveling.
Visit Puerto Belize and See the Altars
If you’re looking for a place to visit in the Caribbean, consider Puerto Barrios and its neighbor Livingston on the coast of Guatemala. While there, check out the ancient Mayan altars located in Punta Gorda, Belize – just a short ferry ride away. These altars are part of the UNESCO world heritage site and make for an interesting day trip.
You can also explore other areas of Belize while you’re there, such as the rainforest or coral reefs. And don’t worry about getting your feet wet – there are plenty of cruises around Rio Dulce that will give you a great view of this beautiful area.
Visit Playa Town and Have a Drink at Rosada
If you’re looking for a place to drink and take in the view, Rosada is the place to go. It’s located on the Caribbean Coast of Livingston, and it’s not a busy tourist destination, so you can relax and take in the sights. There are no hotels nearby, but staying at an Ecolodge offers a nice respite from the hustle of tourism.
Livingston is also a great place to disconnect and read a book or meditate. However, keep in mind that Livingston is not on public transport – you either have to rent a car or get an UBER which may charge around 500 Q/ one way. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, Manabique Beach is located across the water from Livingston, and it houses many avian species and monkeys and crocodiles.
Visit Punta Dulce and Dance the Night Away
Punta de Manabique is one of the most important birding sites in Guatemala. The area is known for its mangrove swamps, a haven for many birds.
Fronteras Rio Dulce takes about 1-2 hours to get to Livingston. Guesthouses will have up-to-date information on when and where boats leave for Livingston. Be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to visit this beautiful spot – and dance the night away!
Visit Sea Gardens and Enjoy the Waterfalls
Sea Gardens is a beautiful park located in the heart of Livingston. It features lovely gardens, ponds, and waterfalls.
The best time to visit Sea Gardens is during the spring or early summer when the weather is pleasant, and there are plenty of flowers in bloom.
If you’re interested in birding, that’s also the best time to go; Sea Gardens is home to many different species of birds.
Be sure to walk around the entire park; it’s quite large! And if you have time, stay for dinner or a drink in one of Livingston’s charming restaurants or bars.
Things to Do and See at Livingston Beaches
Livingston has many activities, but the most important ones are April 16, 2022, and Playa Blanca.
Playa Blanca is known for its pristine beaches. The boat ride through the gorge to Rio Dulce and Hot Springs provides a good break from the heat. The hot springs provide an experience not found on most other boats in Livingston Bay.
This hike is moderate in distance and difficulty. This hike starts at the far southwestern edge of Livingston, where the Rio Dulce meets the Tatin River. Be sure to inquire locally about current conditions before beginning this hike.
Rio Dulce Livingston Guatemala – What to See
Rio Dulce is a unique and beautiful place in Guatemala, which is close to Livingston. If you visit there, you should definitely go to see the amazing natural beauty of the place. Here are 3 things to do in Rio dulce Guatemala.
1. Visit the Mayan Ruins
There are several Mayan ruins in Rio Dulce. One of these is the Temple of the Sun. This temple was built about 1,000 years ago. There are still many structures inside the temple. Some of these structures are very old. They were made out of stone and wood.
2. Go Fishing
Guatemala has a lot of rivers and lakes. These rivers and lakes are full of fish. You can go fishing in these rivers and lakes. You can catch trout, catfish, and bass.
3. See the Volcano
In Rio Dulce, there is a volcano. This volcano is called Volcan de Agua. This volcano is located near the town of Rio Dulce. You can climb up the volcano to see the view of the surrounding area.
Water Activities: Enjoy the Coast and Port of Livingston
Spring is the best time to visit Livingston Beaches because it has less chance of rain. Summertime is great for baby sea turtles, and wintertime is ideal for surfing on El Paredon.
The ferry from Puerto Barrios in Guatemala to Punta Gorda in Belize offers a variety of water activities, such as fishing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Ferries to Playa Blanca, a beautiful beach on the Caribbean coast of Guatemala, offer a wonderful day trip with plenty of things to do, including swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Livingston Beaches has a variety of hotels to choose from; Amantique Bay Hotel is one of the best luxury hotels on Livingston Beaches.
Trips and Attractions: Guide to Visiting Siete Altares
If you’re looking for a guide to visiting Siete Altares, check out this post!
Siete Altares is a succession of small natural cascading freshwater pools. It’s accessible by boat or walking from Livingston.
Livingston is different than anywhere else in the country because it has easy border crossings and a local Garifuna culture. Livingston is also one of the few places in Guatemala that offers easy immigration.
Rio Dulce Boat Tour and Tiger Cave are amazing tours that you should try out on your trip to Livingston, Guatemala. They’re both worth the time and money!
Los Siete Altares is an ancient Mayan site worth visiting if you have the time!
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, some solid reasons to visit the beaches in Livingston plus some great ideas of what to see in the town. Guatemala has a lot to offer visitors who want to explore its rich history and beautiful landscape. From Mayan ruins to colonial towns, there’s plenty to see and do. Interestingly, this place has an attractive beach vibe, mixing its unique culture and offering it to visitors. Will you take the challenge and set a course for Livingston?
