This Is El Salvador | NobodySurf

This Is El Salvador

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This Is El Salvador

Surf City x NobodySurf 66 Videos ･ Last Updated: Apr 14 2025

El Salvador is a country in Central America and the only one that does not have a coastline with the Caribbean Sea. Its 321 km long coastal strip faces completely south with an angular direction towards the south pole, which causes the swell it receives to come from directions 170° to 225°.

Its coastal geography is generated as a result of the belt of fire and the fault of the Cocos tectonic plate below the Caribbean fault. This location generates a unique coastline with cliffs, rocks, and protected coves, which is favorable for the swells approaching from the south to form waves of excellent height and shape considered of high level and quality for the sport of surfing.

Within its 321 km of coastline are the Cordillera del Balsamo and the Cordillera Jucuaran-Intipuca, which form this geographical fault that end up being the cause of generating perfect waves or peaks, and its breakers are to the right side by the angle at which they receive the swells from the south.

Country specs

  • Official name: República de El Salvador
  • Currency: United States Dollar and Bitcoin
  • Official language: Spanish
  • Climate: Tropical Climate
    • Dry season: November - April
    • Wet season: May - October
  • Capital city: San Salvador
  • Area: Central America
  • Territorial area: 21,040 km2
  • Population: 6.4 million
  • Government: Democratic Republic
  • National dish: Pupusa

About surfing

History of surfing in the country (when and how it spread)

Thanks to the coastal geography of the country, shaped by the Ring of Fire and the fault line of the Cocos tectonic plate beneath the Caribbean fault, El Salvador boasts a unique coastline with cliffs, rocky outcroppings, and protected coves. This geography creates ideal conditions for incoming southern swells to form waves with exceptional height and shape, considered top-tier and of excellent quality for the sport of surfing.

The practice of surfing in El Salvador dates back more than 20 years. However, it is only recently that the government has made significant efforts to promote surfing and position Surf City El Salvador as one of the best surfing destinations in the world. As a result, over the past five years, El Salvador has hosted more than 15 professional surfing competitions for WSL, ISA, and ALAS.

Why El Salvador is focusing on surfing

El Salvador is leveraging the exceptional quality of its beaches as part of a strategic effort to boost tourism. By focusing on surfing, the country is positioning itself as a standout destination in the region, attracting visitors with its unique appeal.

Surf areas

Tips and useful info

  • Other languages: English is spoken at hotels and other tourism-related service centers.
  • World time: GMT -06:00
  • Geographic location: El Salvador is located in the southeast of Central America on the Pacific Ocean coast. It shares a border with Guatemala and Honduras.
  • Currency: The US dollar and bitcoin are legal tenders. Credit cards or cryptocurrency applications are accepted in most commercial establishments. There are ATMs throughout the national territory, especially in shopping centers, gas stations, hotels, among others.
  • Weather: Generally speaking, El Salvador has warm or tropical weather during most of the year. The annual average temperature is 28℃, ranging between 25℃ and 28℃. For the weather forecast, it is recommended that visitors check the weather on the official site of the Ministry of the Environment.
  • Private banks schedule: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. With some exceptions that still work until 5:00, 6:00, and 7:00 pm.
  • Tip: It is appropriate to give 10% in most of the restaurants and bars. Some of them include the tip in the total amount.
  • Power: 110V AC, 60Hz
  • Independent Guides
  • Tourism Transport
  • Find more information about El Salvador