Cocorí Lodge: Where the Waves Break and the Party Begins

Stephanie Capper
Aug 2
3 min read

If you’ve spent more than ten minutes in El Paredón, you’ve heard the name Cocorí Lodge. Maybe you’ve watched the surf roll in from their beachfront bar, danced your heart out at one of their iconic Saturday parties which attract local and world-class DJs, devoured a taco on a Tuesday while strangers-turned-friends cheered over trivia or competed in their legendary Beer Pong tournaments (they're on Thursday by the way - and, there's a cash prize!).

Cocorí isn’t just a place to rest your head - it’s a legend. It's a surf academy, a phenomenal restaurant, an even more phenomenal music venue; it's a local landmark. Owned and run by a crew of surfers and long-time mates Diego, Walid and Ito, who took a gamble on this stretch of black sand before the tourism rush began, Cocorí has helped shape the vibe that now defines El Paredón.

El Paredon Insider recently sat down with Diego Calvo, one of the co-founders of Cocorí crew to hear how it all started, why it still matters, and what’s coming next.

Let’s start at the beginning. In one sentence, how would you sum up what Cocorí Lodge is all about?

Cocori Lodge has become the landing point of El Paredon. Thanks to our surfing 'backyard', as we like to call it, Cocorí has become a must stop in a visit to El Paredon - to learn how to surf, watch incredible sunsets and meet beautiful people.

What sparked the idea for Cocorí? Can you share the story behind it?

Being a group of surfer friends, we wanted to work around the surfing industry to enjoy the beach life and surf more. Finding waves in El Paredón with a variety of conditions that could make it possible to have a solid surf culture made us jump head first into the dream and mission of creating a hostel, surf academy, restaurant and bar. Some years have passed and watching the growth of the surf town has been nothing short of amazing.

There are a lot of hostels in El Paredón now - what makes Cocorí stand out?

Cocorí so much more than just a hostel owned and operated by surfers. We're a lifestyle brand that's developed exponentially since our former little surf town barely had internet.

What are some of your top offerings, and what do your guests rave about?

Gorgeous private rooms and dorms for all budgets
Surf Classes by local instructors
Beachfront breakfasts watching pro surfers surf live!
The Surf & Turf Burger (a must try!)
Taco Tuesdays which is followed by trivia
Shrimp, Mahi Mahi & Tuna Seafood Dishes

Any events or promotions you want people to know about?

Taco Tuesday & Trivia Night
Beer pong Thursdays (cash prizes included!)
Salsa Fridays with Free Salsa Instructor
The Alchemyst x Black Pearl Saturday Boat Party
Saturdays Live DJ Party

Is there anything special or unique about your food, services, or philosophy?

We serve fresh, export-quality seafood at our beachfront restaurant, with plenty of veggie and vegan options - all prepared by our badass all-women kitchen team.

How would you describe the atmosphere at Cocorí?

The vibe in cocori is full of life, yet relaxed, laid back and open.

Who tends to find their way to Cocorí - and stay a little longer than planned?

Our adults-only hotel welcomes locals, backpackers, flashpackers, and surfers alike. Meanwhile, the restaurant draws families, groups of friends, and visitors from neighbouring towns and cities across Guatemala.

What practical services or perks do you offer your guests?

The most stunning pool in town
Wifi and parking for guests
Daily evening events
Surfing and Yoga classes
Mangroove reservoir paddleboard tours
Wakeboarding

What’s something special about Cocorí’s story or team that more people should know?

Cocorí doesn’t just bring the vibe - we throw the biggest music and surf events in El Paredón. From the high-energy Banzai Classic to the internationally recognized ALAS Latin Pro, we keep the town pulsing with action year-round. Follow us on socials to catch the next wave of parties, DJs, and unforgettable nights.

Do you collaborate with the community or support local initiatives?

Yes - community is in our DNA. Cocorí’s founders helped launch both the Asociación de Hoteles El Paredón and Sustainable El Paredón, leading projects like renovating the town’s school, funding teachers’ salaries, building lifeguard cabins, supporting local lifeguards, and organizing waste collection with new town bins. We’re proud to grow alongside the community we love.