Paddle board across a glassy lake in the morning light, watch volcanoes shimmer in the distance, and sip fresh Guatemalan coffee—all before 10am (for less than the price of lunch).
By Rebecca Moy
There are some mornings that just go right.
The weather lines up. You get out early enough. You remember your water bottle. And suddenly, you're standing on a paddle board in the middle of Lake Atitlán, watching the sunlight glitter off the water.
I’m Rebecca Moy, a 27-year-old digital nomad from the UK. I’ve spent the past three years working remotely around the world, and two of those months were in Guatemala. I travelled, I volunteered, and I paddleboarded.
In this blog, I’ll explain how to enjoy a morning paddle board in Lake Atitlán for just $14, what makes the experience so special, and why it should be top of your Guatemala itinerary.
Key Takeaways:
- You can rent a paddleboard or kayak on Lake Atitlán for $10/hour from 8am with Kayak Guatemala
- The total cost for two hours on the water = $14
- Kayak Guatemala recommends going in the morning when the water is calmest
- They provide a designated safe area with clean water and no boat traffic
A Slow, Sleepy Start
We were up just after 7. No alarm—just that natural early light that gently nudges you awake. The air was fresh in that way it only is first thing, before the lake gets busy.
Santa Cruz La Laguna, where Kayak Guatemala is based, is one of the quieter towns on the lake. There are no cars, so you arrive by boat, and the village is tucked between two dramatic mountains. The lakefront area is home to eco-lodges, hostels, and the occasional dog trotting down the path. It has a laid-back, local vibe that's easy to fall into.
If you're staying nearby, you can simply walk down to the dock. We filled water bottles, grabbed our sandals, and made our way to the waterfront.
First Light on the Water
We picked up our paddle boards from Kayak Guatemala around 8am.
Cost: $10 for the first hour + $4 for the second = $14 total
You can also rent a single or double kayak for the same price if you prefer to stay seated or go with a friend. I went with the paddleboard, but the kayaks looked just as fun.
The Kayak Guatemala team gave us a short safety briefing and pointed out the designated paddle area. It’s a large section of the lake kept safely out of the boat lanes, and the water is clean and swimmable—not something you can say about every part of the lake.
They recommend staying within this area unless you’re going with a guide. And I agree—if you're planning to explore further afield, like some of the more remote cliffs or hot springs, it’s better (and safer) to go with someone who knows the routes.
That morning, the water was still and glassy. The sun was high enough to reflect off the surface but still low enough to give everything a soft golden glow.
Our Peaceful Morning Paddle
There were a couple of other people out—someone in a kayak, a guide with a group—but it was mostly quiet. I’d only paddleboarded a few times before, and this was by far the easiest time I’d had balancing.
The designated area was wide enough that we could roam without feeling boxed in, but not so far out that we worried about lanchas or getting lost.
You don't need to be particularly sporty for this. It's light movement, just enough to get your body going for the day. And you can sit or kneel whenever you want.
Coffee, Conversations, and Coming Back to Shore
After a couple of laps and some floating around, we headed back in. The Kayak Guatemala team was there to help us dock the boards.
Note: Coffee isn’t included in the rental, but there are great spots nearby once you’re done.
We headed uphill to Café Sabor Cruceño, which is part of the Amigos de Santa Cruz non-profit. It's run by graduates of their culinary arts programme and serves some of the best food on the lake. You can also take cooking, weaving, or beading classes if you have more time in Santa Cruz.
The café is perched on a hillside with one of the best panoramic views you’ll find—volcanoes, lake, sky, all of it.
Getting there is a short (but steep) 10–15 minute walk up from the dock, or you can take a tuk-tuk if your legs aren’t in the mood. Totally worth it either way.
Why I’d Recommend It to Anyone Visiting the Lake
This experience isn’t about ticking something off a list. It’s about starting your day in a different headspace.
- It’s accessible. Paddleboards and kayaks are beginner-friendly. The calm morning water makes it even easier.
- It’s affordable. $14 for two hours on the lake is excellent value.
- It’s safe. Kayak Guatemala has a clearly marked zone with clean water and no boat traffic.
- It’s peaceful. You get the quietest, most beautiful part of the day to yourself.
Whether you're in Santa Cruz for one day or a whole week, it’s one of the best ways to experience Lake Atitlán.
Want to experience this for yourself?
Join Kayak Guatemala’s morning SUP or kayak rental and start your day with calm waters, great views, and fresh air. It’s easy to book, even if you’re just passing through.
👉 Click here to rent your paddleboard or kayak
Or check out the full range of tours and adventures Kayak Guatemala offers around the lake.
Want to Level Up Your SUP Experience?
If you’re looking to go beyond a simple rental, here are some epic options:
Zipline & Kayak Tour
Best for: Active families
Fly through the cloud forest on 1,290m and 2,381m long zipline courses at the Atitlán Nature Reserve. This 2-in-1 tour combines kayaking and extreme ziplining for the ultimate adrenaline kick.
Price: View full tour
Cliff Jump – Kayak – Paddle Board Lake Atitlán Excursion
Best for: Thrill seekers
Paddle the lake, cliff jump from heights ranging from 2 to 30 feet, and unwind at a lakeside resort.
Base price: $55 per person
Optional add-ons:
- Guided hike: $25 p/p
- Massage: $60 p/p
- Lunch: $12 p/p
- Round-trip hotel pick-up from Antigua: $40 p/p
View full tour
Kayak & Hike Excursion (From Antigua)
Best for: Day trippers from Antigua
A full-day adventure exploring Lake Atitlán by water and trail. Paddle, hike, and learn about Mayan traditions.
Price: $169 p/p
View full tour
2-Day Kayak & Hike Adventure
Best for: Outdoor lovers with time to spare
A fully immersive two-day tour including kayaking, cliff jumping, and a hike through multiple lakeside villages. Meals, accommodation, and gear included.
Price: $225 p/p
View full tour
Adventure Day – Family Excursion
Best for: Families with kids
Activities include kayaking, SUP, kids archery, climbing, waterfalls, and optional spa services. Tailored to your family's pace and preferences.
View full tour
Final Thoughts
If you’re in Lake Atitlán and want something low-key but meaningful, rent a paddleboard or kayak and get out early. You don’t need a group, a guide, or a big plan.
Just a quiet morning, some light movement, and one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. That was more than enough for me.
