Last updated on January 26th, 2024 at 05:11 pm
If you plan to surf in El Zonte, you came to the right place. In this surf guide, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including surf seasons, surfer tips, and the best surf spots in El Zonte Beach, El Salvador.
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About Surfing in El Zonte, El Salvador
If you are a surfer traveling in El Salvador, you must surf El Zonte at least once, if not more. This little town definitely has a special magic. It is famous for its excellent waves and chill atmosphere, which is why it is one of the most popular surf destinations in El Salvador.
El Zonte is located at the KM 50 of the Litoral road. It is a beautiful village with a young surf community and cool vibes. Unlike its neighbor from the East, El Tunco, here in El Zonte, you will not find any crazy nightlife or developed tourist scene. Sure, there are several hostels, restaurants and small bars, but everything here is “in slow motion”. Therefore, many artists, hippies, and soul surfers made El Zonte their home, and they always welcome foreigners with open arms.
As for the surf in El Zonte, it is absolutely fantastic. Like in most of the El Salvadorian coastline, you will find long and rippable waves with remarkable consistency. Therefore, if surfing in El Zonte was not on your list, it definitely should be.
Surf Seasons in El Zonte
In General, you can surf El Zonte 365 days a year. The swell here is very consistent, and you can count the flat days on one hand.
For beginners, the best time to come is during the dry season, from November to April. This is when the waves are typically chest to shoulder height, and the surf conditions are friendly and forgiving.
The wet season, between May and October, is the best time for advanced surfers to surf in El Zonte. Sure, you will have to deal with occasional wind and rain during these months, but this is when the big overhead swells tend to come.
If you come to surf in El Zonte during the transition months, you will enjoy both worlds. Therefore, March to May is the best time to surf El Zonte. Just like in the rest of El Salvador, the weather is sunny, the waves are consistent, and the conditions are just perfect.
Surf Spots in El Zont
You can spend your whole trip only surfing in El Zonte, and you will be a happy surfer. Luckily, this town offers the most consistent break in the country. So, you can count on it to produce sound waves even on those small days when the other spots are flat.
The problem, however, is on the big swells, as the break at El Zonte can’t handle too much size. Therefore, on those huge days when the current is too strong, and the waves are closing out, just take a short drive to the other spots around, such as El Sunzal.
The main spot in El Zonte is the right-hand point break, where the river mouth meets the reef. You only need a short paddle to get to the lineup here, as the waves break very close to shore. On a good day, you can get beautiful long rides with hollow sections. This wave suits all skill levels unless the swell is over 5 feet. It is definitely one of the best surf spots in El Salvador.
Walking further west on the beach, you will find another surf spot called Olas Permanentes (“permanent waves” in English). This break performs well only during high tide and usually when the swell is small; otherwise, it is too messy. It offers a great ride to the left side over a sandy bottom with occasional rocks.
Other than surfing in El Zonte, you can check out the close area and find other great surf spots within a short driving distance. For instance, in the East, you have the famous El Tunco and Punta Roca; in the West, with hardly any crowds, you can surf K-59, K-61, and Mizata.
Can Beginners Surf in El Zonte?
Generally, El Zonte is not the typical beginner spot. The rocky bottom and strong currents make surfing in El Zonte challenging for novice surfers. If the swell size is 2-3 feet, beginners can handle this break without a problem. However, if the waves are bigger than that, it is not recommended.
In nearby El Tunco, the break at Sunzalito is perfect for beginners, even on big swells.
Surf Camps in El Zonte
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world or even an intermediate seeking improvement, you can explore El Zonte’s surf scene at a surf camp. These are the most recommended ones in town:
1. Yoniswell Restorative Retreat.
2. Horizonte Surf Camp, El Zonte.
3. Purosurf, El Zonte.
4. Salty Souls, El Zonte
For all the details about surf camps in El Zonte, please click here.
Surf Hotels in El Zonte
When coming to surf in El Zonte, you want to make sure you stay in the right place, which means as close as possible to the waves. These are some of the most recommended surf hotels in town:
1. Palo Verde– Palo Verde features a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a bar, and a garden in El Zonte. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service, and free WiFi throughout the property.
2. Garten Hotel– Garten Hotel features a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a bar in El Zonte. With free WiFi, this 5-star hotel offers a private beach area and room service. Free private parking is available, and the hotel also provides car hire for guests who want to explore the surrounding area.
3. RocaSol Casa d´Mar– Facing the beachfront, RocaSol Casa d´Mar offers 3-star accommodation in El Zonte and features a restaurant, bar, and garden. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace. Certain rooms at the property include a patio with pool view.
For more surf hotels in El Zonte, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
Conclusion- A Final Thought
To sum up, El Zonte is a magical town and a great surf destination. It offers beautiful waves, a relaxed vibe, and lots of fun.
We hope you enjoyed reading this surf guide to El Zonte. Have a great surf trip!
