Surfing in El Sunzal, El Salvador: Surf Spots and Beaches Guide
In this guide we are hoping into El Sunzal, a beautiful famous right point break in El Salvador that has some fantastic nearby beaches as well as camps to enjoy yourself at. Get hyped with this beautiful longboarding video;
Introduction to Surfing in El Sunzal
Welcome to the one of the most reliable wave in El Salvador. El Sunzal is a deep-water right-hand point break that acts like a swell magnet, capturing almost any pulse the Pacific sends its way. It is the birthplace of Salvadoran surf culture and remains one of the go-to destination for those who want long, effortless rides in a breathtaking tropical setting.
The beauty of Sunzal lies in its versatility. While it is famous for being a longboarder’s paradise with 300-meter walls, it can handle massive size, turning into a high-performance arena when the big swells roll in. The deep bottom means the wave rarely closes out, offering a soft, rolling face that is incredibly forgiving for intermediates. Located just a short walk from the bustling energy of El Tunco, the village of El Sunzal offers a slightly more tranquil pace. It is a place where you can spend hours in the water, refuel with local pupusas, and watch the sunset over the most iconic boulder on the coast. Whether you are catching your first green wave or looking to clock some serious flight time on a longboard, El Sunzal is the soul of Surf City.
Best Season to Surf in El Sunzal
The “High Season” for swell is from April to October. This is when the Southern Hemisphere groundswells are at their peak, often sending overhead sets that make Sunzal one of the longest rides in Central America. The water is warm, the landscape is a deep jungle green, and the mornings are almost always glassy.
For those looking for a “Mellow Mission,” the dry season from November to March is unbeatable. The swells are smaller and much easier to manage, making it the prime time for beginners and longboarders. You can expect constant sunshine and reliable offshore “Papagayo” winds that keep the waves perfectly groomed from dawn until dusk.
If you want the best of both worlds, aim for the shoulder months of March or November. You often get enough swell to keep the point firing but avoid the heavy tropical rains of the mid-summer months. It is the perfect window to enjoy the clear water and consistent lines with slightly thinner crowds.
Surf Spots and Beaches
Playa El Sunzal
This is the stretch of dark volcanic sand that sits right at the base of the point. It’s a beautiful place to hang out between sessions, with plenty of tide pools to explore. The beach itself offers some smaller whitewater sections perfect for absolute beginners who aren’t quite ready to paddle out to the main peak.
El Sunzal Point
The legendary right-hand point. It’s a deep-water wave, which means it’s less intimidating than the shallow reef breaks nearby. It offers a slow, predictable takeoff and a massive, open face that is perfect for carves, cutbacks, and longboard dancing. On big days, the ride can connect for hundreds of meters, taking you all the way into the bay.
Playa El Tunco
A five-minute walk east, this is the most famous beach in the country, easily identified by the pig-shaped rock (“El Tunco”) offshore.
Surf Camps and School
A luxury villa overlooking the Sunzal break. It’s designed for those who want a high-end experience, featuring a panoramic yoga deck, a sparkling pool, and immediate access to the point. It’s the perfect base for surf groups or families who want to watch the sets from their kitchen.
Located right in front of the wave, this camp offers an authentic, high-energy environment. They specialize in all-inclusive weeks with private surf coaching, video analysis, and yoga. Every room has a direct view of the point, so you’ll never miss a session when the tide is right.
How to get to El Sunzal
Fly into SAL in San Salvador and you are looking at a quick 35-to-45-minute drive to the coast. The “Surf City” bypass makes the trip faster than ever. You can easily book a private shuttle through your surf camp, or grab an Uber from the airport. Once you are in Sunzal, you can walk to the beach and the neighboring town of El Tunco, so a car isn’t necessary unless you plan on doing day trips to the Wild East.
General Costs and Considerations
El Salvador uses the US Dollar and Bitcoin, so no need for currency exchange if you are coming from the States. El Sunzal is a popular hub, so prices range from budget-friendly pupusa stands ($1-$2) to high-end resort dining ($20+). Budget around $50 a day for food, drinks, and a few small extras. There are several ATMs in the nearby El Tunco village, which is next door to El Sunzal, making it easy to keep your wallet stocked.
Travel Advisories
The area is safe and very welcoming to international travelers. The main hazard at Sunzal isn’t the locals, but the sun and the rocks. The “cobblestone dance” to get in and out of the water can be tricky, so reef booties are highly recommended. The tropical sun is intense, so wear plenty of high-zinc sunscreen and a rash guard. As with any world-class break, be respectful in the lineup and you’ll get plenty of waves in return.
Other things to do in El Sunzal
Food
You have to try the local ceviche and “Coctel de Conchas” (black clam cocktail) from the stalls along the beach. It’s the freshest seafood you’ll ever have, usually caught just hours before it hits your plate.
Location to Hike
Take the 20-minute drive up to the Tamanique Waterfalls. It’s a moderate hike through the tropical forest that leads to three stunning waterfalls where you can jump into deep, cool freshwater pools. It’s the best way to reset after a few days of salt and sun.
Cultural Thing
Spend a Friday or Saturday night in El Tunco. It’s the social heart of the coast, where locals and travelers gather for live music, dancing, and street food. It’s a great way to experience the high-energy side of Salvadoran surf culture.
Conclusion on El Sunzal
El Sunzal is a bucket-list destination for any surfer who values long rides and tropical vibes. It’s a place that rewards patience and offers a sense of accomplishment whether you are a pro or a total novice. With its world-class consistency and friendly atmosphere, it remains the ultimate anchor of the Salvadoran coastline, and a session waiting to be had.