The waves
A unique mix of world class waves and beginner-friendly breaks
For surfers of all skill levels and all surfcraft types
As Salvadoran locals, we’ve spent decades surfing around Central America and the world, and we can say with confidence that El Salvador is one of the most under-the-radar surfing gems. Our local beach is mellow and consistent but uncrowded, so you and your friends or family will be surfing alone. There are also multiple world-class waves nearby, which means more advanced surfers will score too!
El Salvador – An under-the-radar surfing gem in Latin America
With multiple top-tier World Surf League events each year plus a coastline spoiled with waves, there’s no shortage of spots to surf. Want to surf breaks with only you, your family or your (new or old) friends? You’ll feel like you have the entire place to yourself when you stay with us!
Perfect learner waves out front
Playa Maculis – Less than 1 minute walk
Our surf resort is located in front of Playa Maculis, a gorgeous stretch of sand with a gentle beach break that’s perfect for beginners, longboarders and later-in-life surfers seeking a mellow wave that they can walk to. Unlike some of the heavier El Salvador surfing spots, Maculis offers a forgiving and safe environment to hone your skills.
RETAXE reef – Less than 1 minute walk
Want to surf your first ever reef break but you’re nervous about the sharp coral and advanced waves usually associated with them? RETAXE reef, which is a mellow and user-friendly wave that breaks over a shallow rock bottom, gives you the reef experience without the risk. It’s the perfect place to test your skills and gain confidence!
Waves for more advanced surfers nearby
Punta Mango – 45 minutes
Punta Mango, a premier El Salvador surfing spot, offers epic righthand barrels when the swell lines up. Accessible via 4×4, this remote break delivers powerful, hollow waves breaking over a cobblestone bottom – perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers looking to push their limits. Escape the crowds and test your skills in this stunning, off-the-beaten-path surf spot.
Las Flores – 30 minutes
A very fun, very consistent pointbreak with rides up to 300m long. Bigger swells turn it into Central America’s version of Bells Beach – advanced surfers only! Smaller days see it become a playground for confident beginners and intermediate. It’s for sure one of the best and most versatile El Salvador surfing spots.
Rainy/wet season
- The rainy or wet season runs from May to October
- This is when the biggest and most powerful swells hit El Salvador
- Expect more consistent head high waves at open beaches and pointbreaks that are suitable for upper intermediate and advanced surfers
- For beginners, we know plenty of spots protected from these larger swells, so don’t be put off booking during this time if your friend or partner is a more advanced surfer
Dry season
- Dream of surfing small and cruisy waves under blue skies?
- We recommend visiting RETAXE in the dry season from November to April
- The swell is historically smaller, which means calmer waters and more manageable waves for beginners and intermediate surfers
- For learner surfers or anyone who vibes more with mellow waves than heavy ones, this is the time to book