Santa Catarina is a very colorful and inviting village a few minutes drive from Lake Atitlan’s hub, Panajachel. It is directly accessible by road from Panajachel with tuk-tuk and has a host of beautiful vacation properties and hotels. Check out the getting to Lake Atitlan guide as well as our complete Lake Atitlan itinerary with an Antigua stop.

PLACES TO STAY

• Villa Onix – Amazing Airbnb listing with wonderful hosts, great views, and a heated jacuzzi on the balcony. Very private 1-bedroom with a full kitchen, grill, and great internet service.
• Casa Colibri – Private house with 5 bedrooms, a pool, and a sauna.
• Garuda’s Nest – Private 1-bedroom apartment on a cliff 90m above water with a 180° panoramic view of the lake and volcanoes.
• Villas Santa Catarina – Hotel stays with a restaurant, bar, heated outdoor pool, and free wifi. Also offer tours and transfers for guests.
• Lake Atitlan Lofts – 2-bedroom 2-story loft with great balcony views of Lake Atitlan.

THINGS TO DO

• Tzampoc Resort – Snag a day pass for Q200 ($25) and get access to the resort amenities, especially their amazing infinity pool.
• Visit and take photos at the colorful and very Instagram-able town square.
• Casa Palopo – Amazing romantic sunset dinner for you and your loved one.
• Enjoy live music at Jose Pinguinos restaurant.
• Shop at one of the local markets.

PLACES TO EAT

• The Little Spoon – Cafe, Restaurant, and Bar
• Circus Bar – Bar, Italia, and Pizza Restaurant (one of the few restaurants offering food delivery).
• Atlantis – Serve a variety of Guatemalan, Italian, Mexican, and European cuisines with loads of vegetarian options. We recommend the Pancake, waffles, and chicken and beef barbecue kebabs.
• Guajimbos – Uruguayan restaurant.
• Delhi6 – Authentic Indian dishes.
• Jose Pinguinos – Most authentic Guatemalan recommendation.
• Deli Jazmin – Mainly Guatemalan dishes with plenty of vegetarian options.
• Hana Sushi – Authentic Japanese restaurant with plenty of sushi and noodle options.