THE PACIFIC COAST - Guatemala - page 319

The same buses that leave Guatemala City's bus terminal for Puerto San José more often
than not continue to Iztapa. Most anglers arrive on all-inclusive packages booked directly
through their operation of choice, covering transportation logistics.
Return to HIGHLIGHTS
ALONG THE IZTAPA- MONTERRICO ROAD
Heading east from Iztapa, a smooth paved road travels along the coastline for about 25
kilometers to Monterrico. A bridge from Iztapa's Colonia 20 de Octubre ($3 per vehicle)
transportsyouacrossthecanaltoPuertoViejo,fromwheretheroadbegins.You'llseeloo-
fah farms lining the side of the road and the occasional turnoff toward the beach, where
numerous small hotels have begun to spring up on what is probably the finest stretch of
sand on Guatemala's Pacific shores. There are rumors of a luxurious 18-hole golf course
planned somewhere along this route in the not-too-distant future.
Accommodations and Food
Cayman Suites (Km. 10.5, tel. [phone] lodge or 2362-1708/9 reservations,
www.caymansuites.com.gt , $85-155 d) is set on a spectacular beach flanked by a kidney-
shapedswimming poolandopen-air palapa -roofedrestaurant andbar.Its22roomsfeature
all the usual amenities, some with gorgeous sea views, and include deluxe rooms, junior
suites, and spacious, fully furnished suites. All rooms have wireless Internet, DirecTV and
fine hardwood accents. The restaurant serves excellent fusion cuisine and seafood. ATVs
are available for rent.
Closer to Monterrico, at Km. 14.5, is Portete Beach Bungalows (tel. [phone], por-
[e-mail]), with two simple beachfront bungalows and a main house equipped
with fan, refrigerator, private bath, and some decor. Each of the two bungalows can be ren-
ted for a weekend at a cost of $60 d. The main house is available for $133. There is a small
restaurant/bar. You might be able to get a deal for midweek stays and have the place all to
yourself, though you might have to bring your own food.
Should you need to fill up, there is a gas station at kilometer 17. A good place to stop
for a snack or pick up any needed groceries is Las Garzas (Km. 17.5, tel. [phone], 7:30
A.M.-9 P.M. daily). The owners of this friendly roadside minimart can help you get your
bearings. They also serve snacks, including pizza and sandwiches, which you can enjoy in
a pleasant outdoor patio with chairs.
The last place you'll come to along this road is Utz Tzaba (Km. 21.8, tel. [phone],
[e-mail], www.utz-tzaba.com ) ,whichhas10roomsinalargemainbuildingas
wellasfourbungalows.Allroomshavetilefloors,privatehot-waterbathroom,wirelessIn-
ternet,air-conditioning,andceilingfan.ThereareplanstoinstallcableTV.Thebungalows
include two bedrooms and a living room and come fully furnished with minifridge, gas