San Blas

San Blas is one of the most beautiful beaches in El Salvador, and it has the greatest potential as a tourist destination and for surfing.

Located only 3 kilometers west of the Port of La Libertad, and practically at the exit of the modern bypass Camino a Surf City, this natural gem offers not only a long beach 1 kilometer in length, but all the amenities a tourist might need.

Regarding surfing, it has at least four waves, capable of satisfying a beginner or an expert. The first is known as El Recodo, and it is found at the eastern end of the beach. It is a rocky formation at the mouth of a small river, which produces a short, very fast, steep wave with a tubular section.

The next wave, toward the west, is also a rocky formation, which produces two waves: one breaks gently to the right, making it a friendly and easy wave to ride; and a wave to the left, which is a bit faster and more demanding. In this section it is important to go out at high tide, because the rocks are large and protrude from the water at low tide.

The next wave further west is a left-breaking wave, something rare in the “paradise of right waves,” formed by the combination of a boulder field and the wreck of the merchant ship San Blas, which ran aground there in 1901; this wave can become truly powerful and high-quality, with walls up to 6 feet (2 meters), long lines and tubular sections, suitable for an expert level.

From here up to the junction with El Majahual beach to the west, there is a wide beach break formed by sandbanks that produce different types of waves; some fast and tubular, very good for body surfing, and others foamy but strong, ideal for beginners.

In San Blas there are at least two surf schools, where you can also rent boards for a modest price.

The beach offers many attractions, such as its natural, clean and safe atmosphere. On the shore there are private ranches, many of them for rent; beach clubs, thatched shelters and various types of lodging. There are also public areas for parking and accessing the beach, so anyone can enjoy this paradise.

The long strip of volcanic black sand invites you to set up an umbrella and spend a spectacular day. Walking, running, playing soccer or volleyball, flying a kite or sunbathing and taking a swim are ideal activities for this beach.

You can also observe different bird species, and sightings of sea turtles that come to the coast to nest are common.

If you are going to San Blas from San Salvador, head to the road to the Port of La Libertad, take the bypass Camino a Surf City and then take the Litoral road westward; on your right, at kilometer 39 ½, you will see the wide paved street that leads directly to this lovely destination.