Surfing in El Salvador.
Surf City El Salvador is a government initiative aimed at boosting tourism, positioning the country as a premier travel destination, and reshaping global perceptions of El Salvador.
The project showcases the nation’s world-class surf breaks, pristine beaches, volcanoes, lakes, natural reserves, rich gastronomy, and vibrant culture.
Surf City has two main circuits: the Central Coast Route, stretching from El Obispo to El Zonte (also known as Bitcoin Beach), and the Eastern Circuit, running from El Espino to El Cuco Beach.
What is Surf City El Salvador?
Surf City El Salvador, launched by President Nayib Bukele in 2019, highlights the Pacific coastline and world-class surf breaks, introducing travelers to some of the Central America’s best waves.
The initiative aims to attract more visitors, generate tourism revenue, and enhance El Salvador’s reputation worldwide, portraying it as a vibrant, safe, and attractive destination.
Surf City upgrades beach zones, modernizes highways, and enhances coastal towns. It also supports hotels, restaurants, surf schools, and small businesses to strengthen local economies.
Surf City offers more than surfing. Visitors can hike volcanoes, zip-line through lush forests, explore national parks, watch stunning Pacific sunsets, and savor traditional cuisine like pupusas.
The project contributes to changing El Salvador’s image. Once notorious for crime, it is now internationally recognized for its warm hospitality, cultural richness, and epic surfing waves.
Surf City One
Surf City Circuit One is where El Salvador’s Pacific dreams meet reality—golden beaches, powerful waves, and a tourism revival just minutes from the international airport.
Stretching from El Obispo to El Zonte—nicknamed Bitcoin Beach—this circuit showcases the country’s most iconic surf towns. It offers an authentic mix of adventure and coastal relaxation.
World-class waves define this stretch. Spots like El Tunco, Punta Roca, El Zonte, and El Sunzal have hosted global surfing competitions, drawing elite surfers.
Yet Surf City One isn’t only for surfers. Families and travelers relax at La Libertad, La Costa del Sol, or San Diego Beach, perfect escapes for peaceful ocean days.
To elevate tourism, the government designated 21 kilometers of coastline a Tourist Zone of National Interest, empowering over 250 businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators.
Tourism Minister Morena Valdez described this initiative as the country’s first national coastal tourist zone, designed to stimulate development, attract a broader audience, and increase economic benefits across El Salvador.
A pivotal improvement was the six-and-a-half-kilometer “Camino a Surf City” road, which dramatically improved access to the beaches and reduced travel time from San Salvador.
Additional highlights include Sunset Park, a lively beachfront amusement park, and a modern pier in La Libertad, built with Chinese government support, which blends entertainment, trade, and tourism.
Surf City Two
Surf City Circuit Two showcases El Salvador’s wild eastern coast, where unspoiled beaches, world-class waves, and ambitious infrastructure projects are transforming remote shoreline communities into prime destinations.
Stretching from El Espino to El Cuco, this circuit highlights Punta Mango and Las Flores—legendary surf spots admired worldwide for their power, beauty, and untouched surroundings.
The project connects the departments of Usulután, San Miguel, and La Unión, linking more than 11 beaches through a new strategic coastal road designed to attract visitors.
Included in the circuit are these beaches: El Cuco, Las Flores, La Vaca, El Toro, La Ventana, El Carrizal, Punta Mango, La Periquera, El Floral, El Bongo, and El Abrojal.
A rugged dirt road is being replaced with a double-lane highway featuring bike paths, underground utilities, bridges, and scenic lookouts—making travel easier and safer.
A standout achievement for Surf City, El Salvador, is that Las Flores, Punta Mango, and 19 kilometers of coastline have been designated a World Surfing Reserve, under the name “Oriente Salvaje”—one of only 13 worldwide to receive this honor.
The designation of Oriente Salvaje as a World Surfing Reserve is aimed at promoting conservation as the critical path to success by providing international recognition of the waves and coastal ecosystems in order to mitigate environmental threats. SaveTheWaves.org.
The Surf City Two initiative is expected to create thousands of jobs while supporting hotels, restaurants, transport services, and local businesses throughout the eastern region.
World-Class Surf Spots
Surf City, El Salvador, has become one of Central America’s premier surfing destinations, offering pristine beaches, epic waves, and a vibrant coastal culture that draws surfers back season after season.
Top beaches include Punta Roca, El Sunzal, El Tunco, Las Flores, and Punta Mango—famous worldwide for their waves and natural beauty, attracting surfers of every skill level.
One of Surf City’s greatest strengths is wave consistency. The Pacific coast delivers surf year-round, making it perfect for daily practice and unforgettable seasonal surf trips.
For beginners, Surf City is exceptionally welcoming. Spots like El Sunzal and El Tunco offer gentle, rolling waves that create the perfect environment for learning and improvement.
Meanwhile, pros chase adrenaline at legendary breaks like Punta Roca and Punta Mango, powerful waves that test skill, strength, and endurance against some of nature’s best.
Surf City hosts prestigious international tournaments, including the WSL Longboard Championships, the ISA World Surfing Games, and the ISA World Longboard Championship, cementing its reputation on the global stage.
These world-class competitions attract elite athletes while boosting tourism and showcasing El Salvador’s coastline to millions, further establishing the country as a premier global surf destination.
Beyond the surf, warm waters, vibrant sunsets, and a growing beach community create a unique lifestyle that makes Surf City an irresistible experience for travelers worldwide.
Beach Culture
Surf City, El Salvador, combines local charm with global surf vibes, fostering a coastal culture where travelers, surfers, and locals come together to share waves, music, and a sense of community.
For high energy and entertainment, El Tunco and Punta Roca deliver nightlife, live music, and beachside parties, making them hotspots for surfers seeking excitement after dark.
Those craving calm find Mizata and El Zonte irresistible—bohemian beaches with yoga retreats, cozy cafés, and gentle surf perfect for unwinding in a relaxed, natural setting.
Adventurers head east to Punta Mango and Las Flores, two remote surf spots in Surf City. Their wild waves and off-the-grid feel attract surfers seeking raw beauty and challenge.
Whether partying, practicing yoga, or escaping crowds, Surf City’s diverse beaches offer something for everyone, always welcoming with warmth, unforgettable sunsets, and the rhythm of the Pacific.
Beyond the Waves: Volcanoes, Parks & Waterfalls
Surf City, El Salvador, isn’t just about surfing. From its top-notch beaches, visitors can embark on unforgettable adventures, exploring the country’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty.
Day trips to San Salvador, the bustling capital, reveal vibrant markets, street art, museums, and historic landmarks. The city’s blend of tradition and modern life provides a rich cultural experience.
Colorful coastal towns near Surf City invite exploration. Visitors stroll through streets lined with murals, artisan shops, and lively plazas where local communities proudly share their crafts, food, and traditions.
For adventurers, hiking one of El Salvador’s volcanoes is an unforgettable experience. From Izalco’s fiery slopes to Santa Ana’s turquoise crater lake, the views reward those who crave outdoor challenge.
Eco-tourism thrives beyond the surf. Travelers kayak through mangroves, birdwatch in nature reserves, or trek lush coffee country, discovering a side of El Salvador defined by conservation and biodiversity.
Surf City beaches serve as gateways to discovery. Whether chasing waves, climbing volcanoes, wandering through towns, or exploring lush landscapes, visitors experience a country rich in culture, adventure, and authentic local spirit.
Safety at Surf City
Surf City El Salvador is safe to visit. It welcomes visitors with more than waves—it offers peace of mind. Today, El Salvador stands among the safest countries in Latin America for travelers.
Once known for insecurity, the nation has undergone a remarkable transformation. Crime rates have dropped dramatically, making it easier than ever to explore beaches and nearby attractions.
Every Surf City location, from Punta Roca to El Zonte and beyond, is considered safe. Tourists freely enjoy surfing, dining, and nightlife without fear or constant worry.
The Salvadoran government provides extra security along popular beaches and tourist hubs. Visible patrols and coordinated safety efforts ensure visitors feel protected while enjoying coastal adventures.
Safety extends beyond the beaches. Day trips to volcanoes, towns, or cultural sites are supported by reliable infrastructure and a strong national commitment to maintaining stability.
Surf City’s rise as a global destination is tied to this sense of safety. Surfers, families, and adventurers alike can now focus entirely on fun, culture, and discovery.
In short, Surf City offers the perfect blend: epic waves, vibrant communities, and the confidence that comes with exploring one of Latin America’s safest and most welcoming destinations.
Best time to visit
Surf City, El Salvador, shines year-round, but timing your trip can make the experience unforgettable. The best seasons depend on whether you’re chasing waves or sunshine.
From March to October, the rainy season brings bigger swells, perfect for advanced surfers seeking powerful, consistent waves at Punta Roca, El Sunzal, or Punta Mango.
November through February offers drier weather, calmer seas, and plenty of sunshine. It’s the ideal time for beginners, families, and travelers craving laid-back beach escapes.
No matter when you visit, Surf City always delivers adventure, warmth, and unforgettable coastal charm.
Surf City El Salvador
Surf City El Salvador, isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. From legendary surf breaks to cultural gems, every visit reveals new layers of adventure and authenticity.
From catching waves to hiking volcanoes or sipping coffee in boho beach cafés, Surf City packs adventure and Salvadoran warmth into every experience.
In the end, Surf City, El Salvador, is more than just surf—it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a journey worth repeating. It’s also a way to change the world’s perception of El Salvador.
