The 3rd Festival de la Tortuga is upon us - November 18, 19, 20, 2011.

Download the program/info and make your reservations!

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Welcome to Hawaii, Guatemala - "the other Hawaii". We quite often get confused with the Hawaiian Islands in the United States. It's easy to see why. Black volcanic sand beaches, lots of palm trees, big waves and a laid-back lifestyle. But that's where the similarities end.

Hawaii, Guatemala is located on the Pacific Coast, about 16 kms from the border of El Salvador. It could be classed as an island as well, bordered on the south by the Pacific Ocean and on the north by the Chiquimulilla Canal and sectioned off by waterways feeding into the ocean around Iztapa.

It is a relatively young fishing village, started about 50 years ago when three farmers jumped the canal to try their hand at beachside living. Depending on which version you go with, the brother or friend of one of the founders, Alberto Montepeque, remarked on the similarity to the Hawaiian Islands in the United States and the name stuck. Originally known as El Tapadero and later as Los Limones, due to the abundance of lime trees in the area. Today, it is officially known as Hawaii and one of the fastest-developing beachside areas in Central America.

Alongside this coastal development is an abundant wealth of nature - mangrove forests, untamed waves, and the renowned sea turtle nesting beach. Hawaii is home to one of the oldest and largest sea turtle hatcheries in Guatemala, run by an NGO named ARCAS. Our challenge is to keep this natural beauty pristine while bringing in tourists that can appreciate and help protect the environment and respect the local way of life. An ecological alternative to many beachside resorts...

Currently Hawaii's claim to fame is as home to some of the top beach soccer players in the world, and has become increasingly popular as an extremely beautiful and tranquil place to vacation.

Download a brochure detailing packages and excursions here.

To view a sample one-week itinerary, including Antigua and Lake Atitlan, click here.