Panajachel
The main village on the lake
Pana, as it is called locally is where the shopping is done. There is a large expat community here. People from all over the world come and stay. It's where the school is and where most travelers and, for that matter, renters stay.

Santa Cruz
Spectacular views
In the early 1990's foreigners started buying beach front property with magnificent views of the lake and the volcanos that make up it's southern shore. Santa Cruz is only reachable by boat and you have to come to Pana to shop, but boats pass by often.

San Marcos
An exotic village
If you are looking to get far away from civilization, while still being able to rent something nice, this is the place for you. There is a road there, but most come and go by boat. Dirt paths weave between coffee plants and adobe huts occupied by colorful Mayans. It's Shangra La.