The East Coast

The West Coast: La Libertad Area

When we describe the waves of El Salvador, we break them down intotwo areas: La Libertad area  or the West Coast, and The Wild East. It's important to remember that El Salvador faces pretty much due south, unlike the rest of Mexico and Central America that faces more westerly.

The La Libertad area is a mountainous coastline that has amazing point breaks conglomerated in about a 30-mile stretch. The port of La Libertad is about 30 minutes south of the capital city of San Salvador. From La Libertad to the Mizata (the last point on the west coast) there are nine of the best points in Central America, including many beach breaks that can be epic in the right conditions.
Punta Roca
Punta Roca offers what is arguably the best surf in Central America, definitely the best right. Its long and hollow (300 yards on a set wave), and booties are recommended for people with sensitive feet.  There's a high level of local talent, so respect the locals and you'll receive the same respect.
Conchalio
This is one of El Salvador's best beach breaks, close to Punta Roca and a definite option for small days. Very hollow and fast when working, usually worth a check in smaller season.
La Paz
this point is just inside of Punta Roca. It's a long slow crumbling wave for beginners but sometimes it can line up for a really nice wave. 
Surf at Laz Paz, El Salvador. For scale, note the heads of the swimmers at the lower portion of the photo and the surfers on the outer wave.
For scale, note the heads of the swimmers at the lower portion of the photo and the surfers on the outer wave.
La Bocana
La Bocana is one of El Salvador's few left breaks. It's a powerful right and left breaking river-mouth for advanced surfers. Very heavy local scene on weekends, best to only surf this during the week for gringos.
La Bocanita
La Bocanita is a powerful, intense beach-break for advanced surfers. Expect to see an awesome local grommet scene here. There's afriendly lineup but be ready for heavy waves and strange currents, usually works in the afternoons.
Sunzal
Sunzal is a very long right point break (300 yards), with a fast take off with perfect carving walls, rare barrels but perfect for all surfers. When this wave is on it offers some of the best surf in El Salvador. Expect to find great learning waves from November through February.
El Sunzalito
El Sunxalito is a fast beach break for intermediate to advanced surfers. It usually works in smaller surf conditions and is a good option for the afternoon.
El Zonte
El Zonte is a right hand point with some fast sections. It's suitable for all surfers. The town is very nice and quiet, with good restaurants and many talented artisans. For an El Salvador surf trip, visiting El Zonte is a must.
El Cocal
El Cocal consists of three right hand points.  It's not as consistent as other surf spots in El Salvador but it's epic when its on. Crowds are very small, 0 to five person lineups.
K59
K59 is a powerful right hand point over sand and rock bottom.  There aer very small crowds and usually only on weekends.  Your group will probably have it to yourselves during the week.
K61
K61 is a fickle right point that becomes insane when its on. It's only advanced surfers. No one else will be surfing here. Be careful because it is very shallow and it's probably best to make the long paddle from K59 because the rocks are loaded with sea urchins.
Mizata
Mizata is a right point.  This is the most isolated place to surf in El Salvador because it is the farthest away from San Salvador.