Monterrico Hawaii Beach with Day Pass from Antigua Guatemala.

Experience the Best of Monterrico: A Detailed Review of the Day Trip from Antigua

If you’re staying in Antigua and craving a change of scenery, a trip to Monterrico’s famous black sand beaches offers a perfect escape. This tour, priced at $140 per person, covers roughly 10 hours of travel, relaxation, and fun, with the promise of driving through volcanoes and sugar cane fields en route. Your journey begins early in the morning—leaving Antigua around 7:00 am—and you’re accompanied by a bilingual guide who makes the drive informative and enjoyable.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines scenic landscapes with relaxation and adventure. The highlight, of course, is spending the day at Hawaii Beach, where the clean, dark volcanic sand stretches alongside great waves for surfers and calm pools perfect for cooling off. The second favorite aspect is the opportunity to visit Johnny’s Place, a well-equipped resort with pools, horseback riding, and ATV rides—adding variety to your beach day.

A potential consideration is that the drive can sometimes take longer than expected. One review notes that heavy traffic or construction can push travel time up to 4 hours each way, which might cut into your beach time. This is worth keeping in mind if you’re on a tight schedule.

This tour is ideal for those who want a day away from Antigua that balances scenic beauty with authentic beach leisure. It suits travelers who enjoy nature, birdwatching, and casual fun—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family looking for a laid-back day at the coast.

Key Points

• Convenient round-trip transportation from Antigua makes it easy to relax without worrying about logistics.
• Multiple activities at Johnny’s Place, including pools, horseback riding, and ATV rides, provide entertainment for all interests.
• Authentic experience with knowledgeable guides who stop for sightseeing and photography.
• Value for money includes transportation, a full day pass, and access to facilities, with the option to purchase additional meals and drinks.
• Real traveler reviews highlight the friendly guides, stunning scenery, and quality food as key parts of the trip.
• Potential travel delays should be considered, especially during busy traffic hours.

A Deep Dive into the Monterrico Day Trip

Scenic Departure from Antigua

Our adventure begins early, with a pickup from hotel in Antigua. The drive lasts approximately 2.5 hours, though some travelers report longer trips—up to 4 hours—due to traffic or construction, so patience is a virtue. We wind through volcanoes and sugar cane fields, each turn revealing lush, green landscapes that are uniquely Guatemalan.

The guides, like Nelson and Armando, get high marks for hospitality and knowledge. One review raves, “Nelson was amazing! He stopped along the way to give us a chance to take pictures and sightsee,” making the journey not just a transfer but part of the experience.

Monterrico and Hawaii Beach

Arriving at Hawaii Beach is like hitting a tropical postcard. The black volcanic sand creates a striking contrast against the blue ocean, and the gentle surf is perfect for both beginners and seasoned surfers. The tour provides roughly five hours at the beach, which is ample time to swim, relax, or explore.

What sets Hawaii Beach apart is its cleanliness and natural beauty. You’re in a well-maintained resort area that feels authentic but comfortable. Travelers comment positively on the great pools and the opportunity to try ATV rides along the coast—an exhilarating way to see the shoreline from a different perspective.

Johnny’s Place: More Than Just a Beach Stop

After some hours of sun and surf, the group heads to Johnny’s Place, a resort with excellent facilities, including pools and relaxing areas. Here, you can opt for horseback riding or ATV adventures, which many reviews highlight as fun ways to explore.

The review from Mayrelis D mentions, “We ended up being the only visitors on the tour, which made it even more special,” emphasizing the personalized experience this tour can offer. The facility offers a great restaurant where you can enjoy local dishes—a key highlight for those who love authentic Guatemalan cuisine.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers round-trip transportation, a day pass to the resort, a bilingual driver/guide, and all fees and taxes. You’ll also get two bottled waters per person, ensuring you stay hydrated on your journey.

However, lunch, alcoholic drinks, sodas, and boat rides are not included. You might want to budget extra for meals or drinks if you want to indulge. Many travelers praise the delicious food at Johnny’s Place, so it’s worth exploring their menu.

Real Traveler Insights

Reviews offer a well-rounded picture of what to expect. One traveler called the day a “Great & relaxing tour,” appreciating the hospitable guide and the fantastic scenic drive. Others mention the quality of the pools and the ATV rides as highlights, making it clear that the tour offers more than just a beach visit.

A different reviewer expressed a concern about the drive times, noting that it can sometimes stretch longer than expected, especially in traffic. This is an important consideration if you’re pressed for time but still want to enjoy a full day at the beach.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re seeking a relaxing day at the beach with easy logistics, this trip is a great pick. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or friends who want a guided experience with some adventure. The mix of scenic driving, beach fun, and resort amenities ensures that most travelers will leave satisfied.

It’s also ideal for birdwatchers and those interested in conservation, as the area is known for bird diversity and marine turtle conservation stations, though these activities are not explicitly part of the tour.

Final Thoughts

This day trip to Monterrico’s Hawaii Beach from Antigua offers a balanced mix of scenic views, beach activities, and comfort. The value lies in the hassle-free transportation, the opportunity to enjoy authentic local cuisine, and the chance to relax in a well-equipped resort setting. The guided nature of the tour, with stops for sightseeing and photography, adds an educational touch without feeling overly structured.

While the travel time can be unpredictable, the quality of the beach and facilities makes it worthwhile. For travelers wanting a full day of sun, surf, and local flavor without the headache of organizing transport or activities on their own, this tour hits the mark.

Whether you’re a beach lover, a family with kids, or a curious explorer, this experience can be tailored to your pace and interests. Just factor in potential traffic delays and bring your appetite for adventure and relaxation alike.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Antigua to Monterrico?
The trip typically takes about 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions, so it’s good to start early to maximize your beach time.

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip transportation is included, which is one of the biggest conveniences, removing the hassle of organizing your own transfer.

What activities are available at Johnny’s Place?
You can enjoy pools, try horseback riding, or go on ATV rides along the coast—activities that add fun and variety to your beach day.

How much free time is at the beach?
You’ll have approximately five hours at Hawaii Beach, enough time to swim, relax, or explore before heading to Johnny’s Place.

Are food and drinks included?
No, lunch and beverages like alcoholic drinks or sodas are not included but can be purchased separately at the resort.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, including families, couples, and solo travelers, but consider the long drive if you have trouble with prolonged car rides.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within that window are non-refundable.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the experience is private, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

In essence, this trip to Monterrico offers a relaxing escape with beautiful scenery and fun activities, perfect for those who want to combine nature, comfort, and authentic Guatemalan beach life in one day.