San Pedro, Lake Atitlán: What To Do, Where To Eat, Where To Stay

Planning a trip to San Pedro La Laguna?

You’re in the right place.

In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know – how to get there, the best things to do, where to eat, drink coffee, and party, plus the best places to stay and practical travel tips to help you plan the perfect trip.

Guatemala is a charming and vibrant country, and San Pedro La Laguna is no exception.

Nestled on the shores of the magical Lake Atitlán, San Pedro is a colorful and lively town that attracts backpackers and local tourists alike with its laid-back vibe and stunning scenery.

While San Pedro is often labelled as Lake Atitlán’s backpacker hub, after spending two full weeks here, I can confidently say it’s so much more than that.

From traditional Mayan culture and local markets to great cafés, bars, and easy transport links to the other lake towns, San Pedro makes an ideal base for exploring Lake Atitlán.

Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about San Pedro, Guatemala, to make your visit a truly unforgettable one.

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San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala: Overview

If you don’t have time to read the San Pedro La Laguna Guide, here is a quick summary –

How To Get To San Pedro La Laguna

The nearest airport to San Pedro La Laguna is Guatemala City.

Getting to San Pedro, Lake Atitlán is super straightforward, with connections from most popular destinations in Guatemala.

The most common route is from Guatemala City or Antigua, with daily shared shuttles available.

Most shuttles drop you in Panajachel, where you’ll then take a short boat ride across the lake to San Pedro.

However, direct shuttles to San Pedro do exist. We booked ours through a lovely man named Marco, who organised all of our transport and secured great prices throughout our trip.

You can contact him on +502 5437 6307.

➡️ Full Post: How To Get From Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan

How to get around San Pedro La Laguna

Getting around San Pedro Lake Atitlán is easy and affordable.

The town is pretty compact, and most of the main restaurants, cafes, and activities can be reached on foot.

However, if you do want to venture a little further afield, there are tuk-tuks for short journeys.

If you want to visit other towns around the lake, San Pedro is fantastically connected. You can reach all other towns by small boat (lancha).

➡️ Further reading: Lake Atitlan Boat Schedule: Panajachel to San Pedro & Other Towns

Things To Do in San Pedro, Lake Atitlán

San Pedro, Guatemala, is full of vibrant experiences, from adventurous hikes to cultural discoveries and lakeside relaxation.

There is something for every type of traveler, and it is a great jump-off point for nearby towns, too.

➡️ Full my full list of things to do: 15 Incredible Things To Do in San Pedro La Laguna

Rostro Maya Hike (Indian Nose)

The Rostro Maya Hike (Indian Nose) is not only one of the best things to do in San Pedro La Laguna, but around Lake Atitlán in general.

It is a relatively unstrenuous 40-minute hike to the summit, although it does get steep towards the top.

However, it’s more than worth it, as the panoramic views of Lake Atitlán and its surrounding volcanoes from the top will truly take your breath away.

✅ Book your Rostro Maya Tour in advance here

Kayaking

Kayaking on Lake Atitlán is a great way to experience the beauty of the lake and its surrounding towns from a different perspective.

Simply hire your kayak from one of the many lakefront cafes/restaurants and paddle to your heart’s content – we hired our kayaks here.

From San Pedro, you can kayak to nearby San Juan or Playa La Finca.

Visit the Tz’unun Ya’ Museum

For history lovers wondering what to do in San Pedro La Laguna, a visit to the Tz’ununa Ya’ Musuem is a must.

While San Pedro is known for its backpacker scene, visiting this museum gives you meaningful insights into the Tzʼutujil Maya culture, their traditions, and daily life.

The museum is a community-run cultural space, so your entrance fee goes directly back into supporting local projects and communities.

Hike San Pedro Volcano

For those looking for a more challenging adventure, hiking San Pedro Volcano is one of the best things to do around Lake Atitlán.

Unfortunately, I did not get time to do this hike myself, but I’ve heard that it is extremely rewarding with stunning views from the summit.

Traditional Guatemalan cooking class

Taking a traditional Guatemalan cooking class is another one of the best things to do in San Pedro La Laguna.

It’s a fantastic and interactive way to learn more about the local culture and traditions, while also giving you new recipes to take home with you.

I’d recommend checking out the Mayan Kitchen Cooking – I’ve heard amazing review,s and this is a great way to give back to local communities.

⚠️ Looking for flexible backpacker insurance? I personally use SafetyWing and couldn’t recommend them more for their affordability and flexibility. Get a quote below.

Relax in thermal pools

If you’re looking to relax after a busy day, do not miss Los Termales wellness center in San Pedro La Laguna.

Here, you’ll find man-made pools with naturally heated spring water, channelled in from nearby geothermal sources and rich in relaxing minerals.

The wellness center also offers massages and saunas, alongside a series of hot and cold pools with beautiful views over Lake Atitlán.

Visit nearby San Juan La Laguna

If you’re visiting San Pedro, you cannot miss San Juan La Laguna, just a 10-minute tuk-tuk ride away.

San Juan is known as Lake Atitlán’s artistic and cultural town, with vibrant murals, weaving cooperatives, and a strong sense of Mayan culture.

This town has a much more local feel than San Pedro and is well worth a visit.

Learn Spanish at a local school (with homestay)

For travellers who benefit from a long time around Lake Atitlán, learning Spanish at a local school with a homestay is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the culture.

You’ll live with a local family, while taking daily Spanish lessons. Here are some schools worth checking out –

• San Pedro Spanish School
• Semilla Spanish School
• Cooperativa Spanish School

Best Restaurants in San Pedro La Laguna

San Pedro La Laguna boasts some of the best restaurants around Lake Atitlán, with a harmonious blend of Guatemalan and international cuisine.

You’ll find food from all over the world, for every budget and craving. There is also an impressive amount of vegan and vegetarian options.

And the best part? Most restaurants in San Pedro La Laguna offer breathtaking lake views while you dine.

Here are the top restaurants you shouldn’t miss –

• Yakitori de Cava – authentic Japanese food, super affordable, beautiful lake views
• No Hay Deer – one of the best burgers I’ve ever tried, small hole-in-the-wall spot with a buzzing atmosphere
• Sababa – authentic Mediterranean/Middle Eastern cuisine, amazing lake views, restaurant & bakery
• Shanti Shanti – extremely affordable, wide range of cuisines, authentic Guatemalan dishes, great lake views
• El Gato Perdido – best fine dining or date night option, incredible views, Italian-inspired
• The Fifth Dimension – amazing options for vegans/vegetarians, lake views, Guatemalan & Western cuisine

➡️ For my full list, check out: 10 Must-Visit Restaurants in San Pedro La Laguna

Top Coffee Shops in San Pedro La Laguna

San Pedro, Guatemala, is absolute heaven for coffee lovers.

Whether you’re looking for a family-run café with stories to tell, a spot with stunning lake views, or simply a delicious cup of authentic Guatemalan coffee, here are the spots you shouldn’t miss –

• Tornado’s Coffee – family-run café, beautiful garden setting, top-tier coffee from their local farm
• Café Panorama – located high on a hill, breathtaking views of Lake Atitlán, delicious local coffee
• Orbe Café – beautiful lake views, incredible coffee art, local-feel
• Sababa – delicious bakery & coffee, waterfront views of Lake Atitlán, cozy seating
• Cotuc Mayan Specialty Coffee – locally-grown specialty coffee, wide range of brewing methods & beans

➡️ For full details: Top 5 Coffee Shops in San Pedro La Laguna

Where To Stay in San Pedro, Lake Atitlán

There are many amazing accommodation options in San Pedro La Laguna.

From stunning lake view resorts to affordable shared dorms, there is something for every type of traveler and budget.

➡️ Considering staying in another town? Check out my full Where To Stay in Lake Atitlan Guide: Top 9 Towns & Hotels

San Pedro is fairly concentrated, and most things can be accessed on foot or by tuk-tuk, no matter where you stay.

As a rule of thumb, if you’re staying near the waterfront, you can expect things to be pretty loud at night. Stay a little further out if you’re hoping for more peace and tranquility.

San Pedro La Laguna Hotels

San Pedro, Lake Atitlán, is home to some beautiful hotels and resorts, and you can expect a very high standard without breaking the bank.

Sababa Resort

One of the best San Pedro La Laguna hotels for luxury travelers and bougie backpackers.

Here’s what I love about it –

• Choice of lake view suites or shared dormitories
• Exceptional amenities (spa, swimming pool, wellness center)
• Delicious restaurant with (the best) free buffet breakfast

Casa Lobo

This is the best place to stay in San Pedro if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.

Here’s why you shouldn’t miss it –

• Choice of bungalows, suites, or a dorm with stunning views
• Amazing amenities – infinity pool, sauna, rooftop terrace, yoga
• Peaceful location surrounded by lush greenery

San Pedro La Laguna Hostels

If you’re backpacking in Guatemala on a budget, you’ll have no problem finding affordable accommodation in San Pedro La Laguna.

It’s also a fantastic way to socialize and meet fellow backpackers.

Amigos

One of my favorite hostels ever and super affordable with dorms for just 60Q ($8) per night.

Here’s why I loved it –

• Super social but not a party hostel
• Two rooftops with amazing views of Lake Atitlán
• Centrally located with a choice of dorms or private rooms

Mr Mullet’s

This is one of the best San Pedro La Laguna hostels for people who like to party and want to meet other backpackers.

Here’s why you should check it out –

• Ultimate social hostel to meet fellow travelers (pub crawls, beer pong, boat parties, quizzes)
• Centrally located minutes from the dock
• Dorms with free pancakes & tea/coffee in the morning

Nightlife in San Pedro La Laguna

As the backpacker hotspot, San Pedro is the center of Lake Atitlán nightlife.

There are many lively bars, parties on designated nights, and it’s a great place to socialize and meet fellow travelers.

Here are a few San Pedro La Laguna nightlife spots you shouldn’t miss –

• Bar Sublime – mix of DJs & live music with different events each day, cheap drinks & food, waterfront location
• Mr Mullet’s Party Hostel – ultimate social hostel for backpackers, pub crawls, weekly boat party
• Alegre – sports bar with a pub aesthetic, DJs on the weekends
• Ola Bar – amazing (and super affordable) cocktails, themed parties, live music & karaoke
• Zoola – swimming pool with lake views, techno DJs on weekends, pool parties

➡️ For full details: San Pedro La Laguna Nightlife: Top 5 Best Bars

San Pedro La Laguna Tours

Check out these highly-rated tours in San Pedro and other surrounding villages –

FAQs

Is San Pedro, Guatemala worth visiting?

San Pedro Lake Atitlán is well worth visiting and absolutely deserves a spot on your Guatemala itinerary.

I was lucky enough to spend over two weeks in San Pedro, and having visited many of the towns around Lake Atitlán, it was by far my favourite.

Known as the backpacker town, I was worried that San Pedro would lack authenticity and be full of tourists.

I was, however, pleasantly surprised. Whilst there is certainly a lot of international influence, this seems to work harmoniously with the local traditions and culture.

Personally, I think San Pedro is the perfect base to explore the surrounding towns, and it feels like getting home whenever you come back.

➡️ Recommended: 10 Must-Visit Restaurants in San Pedro La Laguna

What is San Pedro La Laguna known for?

As with other towns around Lake Atitlán, San Pedro La Laguna is home to the Tz’utujil people.

This indigenous community makes up one of the 22 Maya ethnic groups that live in Guatemala.

However, in recent years, San Pedro has grown as a popular tourist destination. It has been coined Lake Atitlán’s ‘backpacker town’.

San Pedro is a magnet for like-minded travelers looking to deeper understand Mayan culture and marvel at the beauty of Lake Atitlan.

It is known for its affordable Spanish schools, buzzing nightlife scene, and is a popular jump-off spot for nearby hikes.

➡️ Further reading: Top 5 Coffee Shops in San Pedro La Laguna

Can you swim in San Pedro La Laguna?

Generally, you cannot swim in San Pedro or around any other big towns.

This is because of pollution and a bacterium known as cyanobacteria.

However, there are some other spots around Lake Atitlán where you can swim safely –

• San Marcos & its Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve
• Smaller towns like Tzununa & Jaibalito
• Playa La Finca (a short kayak trip from San Pedro)

➡️ For my full swimming guide: Can You Swim in Lake Atitlán: Best Spots & Safety Tips

Is San Pedro, Guatemala expensive to visit?

San Pedro, Guatemala, is generally very affordable, especially for budget travelers and backpackers.

With cheap local food, low-cost transport, and reasonably priced accommodation, it’s easy to visit without spending much.

San Pedro, Guatemala: Final Thoughts

Well, there you have it! This San Pedro La Laguna Guide has detailed everything you need to know for a truly unforgettable trip.

If you have visited San Pedro, I would love to hear from you – drop me a comment below or reach out to me on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know how it was!