El Salvador has been a long kept secret under surfers and has some of the best waves in all of Central America. El Salvador’s 320 kilometer long coastline with tropical sea water has many excellent surf spots and make this a true surf paradise. There are many places where you can rent surfboards and even take affordable surf classes with a professional. Many of the surf destinations are relatively undiscovered by the crowds, but a few places such as El Tunco and El Cuco offer some nightlife where you have a nice mixed crowd of mainly locals and some international visitors, for those who are looking to combine their surf holiday with some fun.
The ocean has a nice blue color and many of the beaches are made of black volcanic sand surrounded by green nature and coconut palm trees. During your stay you’ll be eating great affordable seafood and get to taste many exotic fruits and juices, a nice little bonus for your surf vacation in El Salvador! Besides the great waves, good food and splendid nature, the true charm of the country is actually its people. You’ll feel very welcome and you will notice it’s easy to get to know people and make friends during your stay in El Salvador.
El Salvador has been the host country of Reef Pro and there are many surf events hosted in the country. Surfing is possible throughout the whole year and you’ll enjoy a nice warm temperature as well as warm waters. The beaches are also a great relaxation spot where surfers, locals and other travelers like to gather. Several bars, lounges and restaurants serve good food and great drinks.
Although surfing is possible anywhere in El Salvador, there are 5 surf spots that stand out.
Punta Roca
Punta Roca is only a half hour drive from the capital San Salvador. Surfers consider this the place with some of the best waves in all of El Salvador. Veteran surfers dare to brave the so-called tubes of the Punta Roca. You can glide endlessly over the waves with your board here. Punta Roca is not suitable for beginners!
Punta Mango
Punta Mango is a much loved but lesser known place, which makes it quieter as it’s still not discovered by the masses. Punta Mango is also suitable for the experienced surfer. It is one of the coastal villages which is currently part of the Bitcoin Beach Project.
Las Flores
Las Flores is located in the east of El Salvador and has a narrow beach where we can find several resorts and hotels to spend the night in luxury. Budget friendly accommodation is also available. Here we can find nice long waves, reaching up to 300 meters in width. Las Flores is also a good destination for beginners as the waves are calmer.
Sunzal
El Sunzal is a beach near El Tunco, 10 kilometers west of La Libertad. There are four breaking waves here.
K59
K59 is a popular surf spot for the more advanced surfers and is not accessible to all surfers. The waves are perfect, but disappear on a rocky beach, so you’ll have to be well-experienced. The access road to the beach is not in great condition, but it ensures that the masses stay away from it.
