K59

From the Port of La Libertad westward, traveling the Litoral highway, with its impressive cliffs and views, is a true spectacle. But immediately after passing the first of its five tunnels, carved in the heart of these emerald-colored mountains, it will be impossible not to fix your gaze on the perfect swell that breaks hundreds of meters below, on the beach known as K59.

After this initial impression, just under a kilometer further along the highway you will find the trail that leads to this wave paradise, distinguished by a massive split cliff on the left and a sea of gray river stones on the right; a setting that makes its beautiful volcanic black-sand beach stand out.

Like most surf spots in El Salvador, K59 is a rocky point that receives the swells of the southern Pacific Ocean directly, creating a fast-wave machine with a right-hand break, long rides, tubular sections, and a wide, steep wall.

Between March and August this beach can produce waves up to 12 feet high (4 meters). The rest of the year, especially between November and December, the wave size decreases, though because of its rocky bottom and wave shape it is not suitable for beginners.

K59 beach is surrounded by mountains and coastal forests that are part of the southern mountain range of El Salvador, long known as the balsam coast because of the plantations of these trees, which have been harvested since colonial times to extract their valuable amber liquid.

This area has just begun its tourism development, so there is little tourist and surfer traffic; however, there are already some camp-style accommodations for surfers, as well as numerous houses for rent. Nevertheless, it only takes 20 minutes by car or bus to reach the Port of La Libertad, where travelers can stock up on everything they need.

To get to K59 from San Salvador, take the highway to the Port of La Libertad, and when you arrive, turn right onto the Litoral highway, continuing past the first tunnel.