Much of El Salvador’s tourist attraction lies in its magnificent beaches, among which you won’t want to overlook El Sunzal beach, located in the department of La Libertad.
This tropical paradise is internationally famous for being ideal for surfing, but it won’t disappoint those who prefer less active activities.
EL SUNZAL BEACH - Beaches of El Salvador. Photo by Mike VondranFollow. Flickr.
El Sunzal Beach Data
| Country: | El Salvador |
|---|---|
| Department: | La Libertad |
| Category: | Beaches |
| Municipality: | Tamanique |
| Waves: | Very tall, between 2 and 5 m (6 to 16 ft) |
| Advice: | Ideal for surfing and partying |
Location of El Sunzal Beach
Location and characteristics of El Sunzal Beach
Only 45 minutes from the capital of El Salvador, you can find the beach complex of which El Sunzal is a part. It is located at kilometer 44 of the Litoral Highway, in the municipality of Tamanique.
The beach occupies a large area of 2 km, decorated with stones and tropical trees that make the environment even more pleasant. There are various places along the coast with excellent service and a beautiful view of the sea.
There is much to talk about its consistent swell; it is so incredible that part of the iconic 1977 surf movie “The Summer of My Youth” was filmed there.
On the other hand, the beauty of its seabed will impress you. Among rocks and corals, oysters, lobsters, crabs, and other crustaceans, as well as manta rays, fish, and turtles, are part of the diverse marine life inhabiting here.
There is also a river, cliffs, and a cave where, it is said, the Virgin once made an apparition. In addition, you can enjoy a saltwater swimming pool, in which you won’t want to get out.
And don’t hesitate to ask a little more, in El Sunzal the people are so friendly that they will surely tell you many more exciting details about the place, with the best disposition.
What to do at El Sunzal Beach
The very high waves of El Sunzal beach make it one of the best in the world for surfing.
However, it should be taken into account that to reach the main point of the break, you have to paddle through a channel of more than 300 meters, which depending on the time of year, can have strong currents.
On the other hand, there are alternatives for those without experience with discipline. There is the option of joining schools and short classes for tourists and natives or renting surfing boards. Do you dare to try it?
Also, during the day, you can practice other water sports, such as shallow diving or snorkeling, which are great for interacting with the magical marine ecosystem.
In contrast, for the less restless, there is an area of calmer currents; if you prefer, this fabulous beach has it all! Relax among the pleasantly warm waters or take a walk along the seashore under the unimaginable sunset sky.
The fun doesn’t stop when night falls; quite the contrary. Generally, from Thursday to Sunday, there are beach parties and nightclubs, with live music, and in the surroundings, you can enjoy all kinds of entertainment, such as the impressive fire juggler shows.
Additionally, it is worthwhile to wander around the town’s lively streets to make use of its hotels, inns, restaurants, cafes, small shops, shopping malls, and bars, where you can get affordable or more luxurious options, according to your convenience.
Surf and weather at El Sunzal beach
It is advisable to consider the seasons, both for sightseeing and catching sound waves at El Sunzal beach.
The weather is hot throughout the year, but especially between September and March, which is a high and attractive time for beginners in water sports because the waves are lower. However, they can be between 2 and 5 meters high in case of storms in the southern Pacific Ocean.
However, more experienced surfers may prefer to visit the beach in the low season, between April and August. The weather gets a little less warm, and the rains and strong winds begin, causing the tide to rise to 20 feet or more.
It is worth mentioning that this season can also be a good time for some tourists, since the number of tourists decreases and the availability of services increases.
Gastronomy at El Sunzal beach
This beach destination is not far behind in terms of gastronomy, so you can choose to taste a little bit of everything in the different restaurants in the place.
Some offer fresh seafood, fish, and shrimp; others offer typical Salvadoran food, such as chicharrón scrambled eggs and the famous pupusas, and rich corn-based foods. Even one or another place serves exquisite international food.
Nearby places
If you don’t dislike rocks, it is easy to enter El Sunzal beach walking from El Tunco beach, which is beautiful with its black sand, peculiar rocks, and river mouth.
Surf lovers will be interested in stopping at this particular beach, as well as those looking for an unforgettable evening of night parties or good places to eat.
As a complement, the beaches of El Zonte and Punta Roca are a few kilometers away, other famous surf spots. And if you prefer the more secluded and quiet areas, you can go to Taquillo Beach, a virgin beach just 20 minutes away from el Sunzal.
Surprise yourself with the high tides of El Sunzal Beach on your next vacation. You will not want to miss the enjoyment this natural beauty provides you, with a pleasant climate and endless activities you can do in and out of the waters of this fascinating place.
