Last updated on November 16th, 2023 at 01:05 pm
In this post, you will find the best surf spots in El Salvador for beginners. With about 300 Kilometers of Coastline and consistent swells from the Pacific Ocean, El Salvador has something for any type of surfer. Amazingly, almost all the surf spots here are right-hand point breaks. That means a regular footer’s paradise and a great challenge for goofy footers. While some of the breaks offer powerful barrels, others are definitely suitable for newbies, and these are the ones we will be focusing on here.
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In detail, these are the best surf spots in El Salvador for beginners:
El Sunzal
El Sunzal is a world-class point break located in the El Tunco area. In fact, it is one of the most consistent surf spots in El Salvador. This right-hand wave breaks far out in the deep water and makes its long way to shore in a soft and mellow way. For that reason, even when the swell is big, any surfer can handle this wave, from beginner to advanced. The last section of this wave is called El Sunzalito, which is actually a perfect beach break for beginners. This is the place where most of the surf lessons take place, and you can practice your popup here without any danger. Moreover, after gaining some confidence, if you feel ready, you can try your luck in other surf spots nearby, such as La Bocana and El Zonte.
Due the quality of the surf here, El Tunco beach used to welcome surfers from all over the globe. Therefore, it is fairly easy to find accommodations, restaurants, surf lessons, and board rental around here. In short, it is fair to say that El Sunzal is probably the best beginner surf beach in El Salvador.
For details about beginner surf camps in El Sunzal, please click here.
Punta Roca- La Paz
Punta Roca is the most famous surf spot in El Salvador. Since the WQS surf competition took place here, it became a well-respected wave among the world surf community. It is also the closest surf break you will get to when driving to the beach area from the Airport.
The waves here are genuinely top quality. This right-hand point break starts with a steep drop and continues straight into to a barreling section. Therefore, it is definitely not the place for novice surfers. However, the inside section of the same wave is called La Paz, which is perfect for beginners. In fact, La Paz offers the same right-hand break but with much less power and over a sandy bottom. Here, you can easily practice your skills and get some long, beautiful rides.
For details about beginner surf camps in El Salvador, please click here.
Las Flores
Las Flores is a small village on the Eastside of El Salvador. The nature in this area is so wild that it got its nickname, the “Wild East”. Although there is not much to do here besides surfing, when a good swell comes, it is one of the best waves you will ever ride. This right-hand point break starts its way deep behind some big rocks. While the first section of the wave is fast and hollow, the rest of it is actually slow and mellow. Therefore, this wave is terrific for any skill level.
As a beginner, you don’t want to surf the first section of the wave, as it will probably punish you immediately. However, this wave can last for over 300 meters, and you can catch it anywhere along the way. The forgiving wall and the sandy bottom make this wave super enjoyable, and newbies can also get the feeling of what it’s like to ride a long, perfect wave.
For details about beginner surf camps in El Salvador, please click here.
How to Prepare for a Beginner Surf Trip to El Salvador?
As a beginner surfing in El Salvador, you are going to face a few challenges. The waves breaking on your head, the currents, and the unstable surfboard can sometimes be hard to handle. Therefore, to make it easier on yourself, preparing your body and mind for the challenge is crucial. Here is what you can do to ensure you are in perfect shape and ready to shred:
1. Take an online surf course– You can practice great online surf exercises to work on the relevant muscles and improve your fitness. Check out Surf Strength Coach and Surfing Made Simple; both are great online surf programs that can help get you ready for your surf trip to El Salvador.
2. Sign up for a surf camp– Why deal with the ocean alone when you can be surrounded by people just like yourself and get advice from professional coaches? To find the best beginner surf camps in El Salvador, click here.
What to Bring for a Beginner Surf Trip to El Salvador?
Here is a complete gear list for the perfect beginner surf vacation:
1. Travel Insurance– For the best insurance by World Nomads, please click here.
2. Surfboard Bag– If you bring your own surfboard, you must have a good bag to protect it. Check out UCEDER, for example, which offers great value for money.
3. Surfboard Wax– Check out Sticky Bumps on Amazon.
4. Sunscreen– For tropical sun, use no less than EltaMD UV.
5. Surf Shorts/Surf Bikinis– Check out Hurley for new shorts and CUPSHE for surf Bikinis.
6. T-shirts and beach wear– Look for the new collection at Hurley.
7. Rash Guard– Protect your body with a good rash guard like BALEAF for men and AXESEA for women.
8. Surf Hat– To keep your head in the shade, try O&E Ocean and Earth Surf Hats.
9. Surf Booties– You will need a good pair of surf boots only if you surf over a sharp reef or in really cold water. Check out O’Neill Split Toe Booties.
10. Surfboard Leash– It is always good to have an extra leash just in case. Check out Ho Stevie Surf Leash.
11. Towel/Poncho– If you want a nice poncho, look at SUN CUBE Surf Poncho.
For more gear options and greater selections, look for our surf gear guides.
Conclusion- Final Thought
To sum up, these are the best surf spots in El Salvador for beginners. It is absolutely amazing how many world-class waves there are in this incredible country. Any surfer will fall in love with the waves here, regardless of his skill level. As a beginner, the best time to visit here is March and April, as the conditions are just perfect during these months. So, if you thought about coming here to surf, definitely go for it; you will not regret it.
Before you go, you might want to read our post about the best surf camps in El Salvador, or the one about surf resorts in El Salvador.
