An Introduction To El Tunco Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | April 25, 2025
A paradise for the wave lovers, El Tunco surf situated only 40km (25 miles) south-west of San Salvador. This lovely surfing town offers easy access to some of El Salvador’s best breaks, all within a car-free, walkable environment, making it a favorite for surfers seeking convenience and adventure.
El Sunzal and Sunzalito, the key surf spots in El Tunco, are just a five-minute walk from town. With mellow breaks that stretch all the way to the horizon, these waves are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers. Warm water plus constantly favorable conditions create year round surf.
For advanced surfers, Punta Roca, hailed as one of El Salvador’s premier and toughest waves, is only a 15-minute bus or taxi ride away. Fast, powerful waves lure seasoned surfers across the globe to this spot.
With its compact layout, a coiled surf culture, and public transport systems, El Tunco is the ideal place to set up for anybody seeking to explore some of the world’s best surfing.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf El Tunco
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Peak El Tunco Surf Season | May to October
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
El Tunco surf hits its prime during the southern hemisphere swell season. From May to October, consistent south & southwest swells feed the powerful pointbreaks & beach breaks around town. Sunzal, just steps from El Tunco, delivers long right-hand peelers ideal for drawn-out carves, while La Bocana offers punchier lefts for advanced surfers.
Wave heights typically range from 4 to 7 foot. El Tunco surf is reliable, & the vibrant surf community makes dawn patrols social & lively. It’s the most consistent & exciting time to be here.
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Shoulder El Tunco Surf Season | March, April & November
Suited For All Skill Levels
During March, April & November, El Tunco surf becomes more variable, but fun waves are still common. Swells drop slightly, hovering around 2 to 5 feet, but clean mornings & smaller crowds keep sessions enjoyable. Sunzal continues to offer mellow pointbreak rides, perfect for intermediates, while La Bocana mellows out just enough for more confident beginners.
El Tunco surf is a great choice in the shoulder season if you want fewer crowds & more relaxed conditions without sacrificing quality surf. It’s a nice balance between consistency & calm.
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Low El Tunco Surf Season | December to February
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
In the dry season, El Tunco surf slows down as swell energy drops. Wave heights range from 1 to 3 foot, with long lulls between sets. While advanced surfers may chase other breaks, beginners find forgiving conditions to learn the basics.
Surf schools are active, & the warm water & playful waves make for ideal learning environments. El Tunco surf remains a year-round destination, but this is the time for slower, easier sessions perfect for longboards & first-timers. It’s chill, sunny, & inviting.
El Tunco Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
El Tunco Surf Temperature:
27–29°C (81–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are perfect for these warm months. A lightweight rash vest is useful for sun protection during midday sessions or extended time in the water.
Rainfall:
Summer is the wettest time of year, with around 20–25 rainy days each month. Expect high humidity, frequent afternoon showers, and occasional overnight storms along the coast.
El Tunco Surf Temperature:
27–29°C (81–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini remain ideal throughout autumn. A rash vest can help on windier mornings or when spending long hours surfing under strong sun.
Rainfall:
Rainfall begins to taper off. September sees around 18 rainy days, dropping to 12 in October and about 8 in November.
El Tunco Surf Temperature:
26–28°C (79–82°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are all you need. Mornings are typically calm and sunny, and there’s no need for any thermal gear.
Rainfall:
This is the driest season of the year. Rainfall is minimal, with only 2–5 rainy days per month, making it ideal for beach time and consistent dry conditions.
El Tunco Surf Temperature:
28–29°C (82–84°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini continue to be the best option. A rash vest can provide extra sun coverage, particularly during long midday sessions or early morning paddles.
Rainfall:
Spring sees a gradual increase in rainfall. March averages around 4 rainy days, April has about 6, and May climbs to around 8. Showers are typically short and happen in the late afternoon.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From El Tunco
| El Tunco Surf Spots | Distance from El Tunco | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
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El Sunzal |
In town centre |
2-8 foot |
Long, mellow right-hand point |
Beginner to Intermediate |
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Sunzalito |
In town centre |
2-8 foot |
Mellow, sandy bottom beach break |
Beginner to Intermediate |
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La Bocana |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) east |
4-10 foot |
Powerful left-hand river mouth |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Punta Roca |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) east |
4-12 foot |
Fast, hollow right-hand point |
Advanced only |
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Surf Spots Within the Area |
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Playa El Zonte |
Approx. 10km (6.2mi) west |
3-7 foot |
Right-hand point break |
Intermediate to Advanced |
Further Information To El Tunco Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: South to southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
El Sunzal is a celebrated left-hand point break that stretches over half a kilometer along El Tunco’s rocky coastline. Best surfed at mid tide when a consistent south or southwest swell lines up with clean northeast winds, El Sunzal offers long, peeling walls that are forgiving yet thrilling, making it ideal for intermediate riders honing their trim & flow. The sandy reef bottom ensures a smooth take-off & forgiving ride, while occasional rocks add texture to the wave face.
Despite its world-class quality, the lineup remains moderate due to the wave’s extended run, most riders lap the same peak several times before paddling back. Easy access from the parking lot & nearby amenities, including surf schools & cafés, complete this quintessential Salvadoran surf experience.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: South to southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
Sunzalito is a mellow beach break located just east of El Sunzal, offering softer, manageable waves that suit beginners & longboarders. The spot works best at mid tide when a south or southwest swell meets light northeast winds, creating smooth, rolling peaks over a wide sandy bottom. These gentle walls provide ample opportunity for carving & cruising, making Sunzalito an ideal training ground for those refining their skills before tackling faster breaks.
The relatively shallow, even sandbar means waves break predictably, & the small crowds ensure plenty of space to practice take-offs & turns. Just a few minutes’ walk from El Tunco’s center, Sunzalito combines laid-back vibes with dependable surf & easy beach access.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: East
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
La Bocana is the river-mouth beach break at El Tunco, known for its punchy, fun waves that form where the river meets the ocean. At mid tide, when a southwest swell converges with easterly winds, the break produces both lefts & rights with quick peel & occasional hollow sections. The sandy bottom & shifting sandbanks create variable peaks that can be playful or challenging depending on swell size.
While the wave isn’t as long as El Sunzal or Punta Roca, La Bocana’s proximity to local eateries & beachfront lodging makes it a convenient choice for multiple daily sessions. The crowd factor is moderate, enough energy to feel social, yet still room to catch waves freely.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Punta Roca is El Salvador’s premier right-hand point break, famed for its long, fast, & occasionally hollow walls that challenge even seasoned pros. Optimal conditions occur at mid to high tide when a solid southwest swell aligns with offshore northeast winds, producing head-high to double-overhead waves that peel powerfully along the rocky point.
The take-off can be steep, demanding strong paddling & precise timing, but those who make it through the critical section are rewarded with rides that often exceed 100 meters. Its international reputation & proximity to surf camps mean the lineup is usually busy, yet Punta Roca’s consistent quality ensures it remains the crown jewel of El Tunco’s surf scene.
Rating: 5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Playa El Zonte is a broad beach break situated a short drive east of El Tunco, offering a relaxed atmosphere & versatile surf. At mid tide with a southwest swell & northeast winds, the waves form both lefts & rights over a sandy bottom, delivering waist-high to head-high peaks that suit all levels.
The take-off is easy, & the wave shape provides both mellow, rideable sections & punchier shoulders on larger swells. El Zonte’s laid-back village vibe & less crowded lineups make it a favorite with surfers seeking consistent, user-friendly waves without the intensity of nearby points. Local cafés & beachfront hostels complete the welcoming surf-town experience.
Rating: 3.5/5
Travel Time To El Tunco Surf Spots
| El Salvador Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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El Sunzal |
In town |
In town |
Not required |
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Sunzalito |
In town |
In town |
Not required |
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La Bocana |
10-15 min. (1km) |
5 min. |
Not required |
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Punta Roca |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 15 min.
(Local bus or Taxi) |
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Playa El Zonte |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 20 min.
(Local bus or Taxi)
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Accommodation In El Tunco
Trip.com makes it easy to secure accommodation by the water for your surf trip in El Salvador. They have everything available from luxury resorts to cheap surf hostels, there is something for everyone. With that booked early, it’s time to ride some waves and not think of any more logistics.
If you want to take your surfing experience in El Salvador up a notch, the surf camps offered by Tripaneer are a great option. They combine professional coaching, comfortable accommodation, and an encouraging community for surfers to hone their skills and enjoy the whole El Salvador surf lifestyle.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€12 to €28 |
$15 to $30 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€45 to €90 |
$50 to $100 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€110 to €280+ |
$120 to $300+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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El Tunco Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
El Tunco surf schools combine laid-back beach vibes with quality surf instruction, making it one of El Salvador’s most popular spots to learn. Sunzal Surf Company stands out for its professional coaching, offering lessons tailored to surfers of all levels in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Bamboards Surf Academy is another excellent choice, where skilled instructors deliver personalized lessons, ensuring a fun and effective learning experience for beginners and intermediates alike. For those starting their surf journey or refining their skills, El Tunco Surf School provides high-quality coaching with a focus on technique and confidence-building.
Meanwhile, Wayo Surf offers expert instruction in a relaxed and friendly setting, perfect for surfers seeking a laid-back approach to learning. From your first pop-up to mastering clean rides, El Tunco surf schools offer the right mix of structure and stoke.
El Tunco Surf Camp
Surf camps in El Tunco cater to surfers seeking a more immersive experience. Sunzal Surf Company blends top-tier lessons with multi-day packages that include accommodations, expert instruction, and opportunities to dive into the local surf culture.
Laola Surf Camp adds to the offerings with its comprehensive packages, combining comfortable lodging with professional surf lessons and a vibrant community atmosphere.
For women looking for a specialized experience, Pixie’s Women’s Surf Retreats, located just outside El Tunco, offers a supportive environment where participants can connect, learn, and grow together in a women-only surf camp setting.
8 Day Playa Las Flores Surf Camp With SurfXplore
For those traveling through El Salvador, make sure to check out Punta Mango Surf Camp in Playa Las Flores with SurfXplore. It’s a remote surf haven offering world-class waves and an immersive local experience. Find Out More
El Tunco Surfboard Hire
El Tunco surfboard hire is easy & affordable, with rental shops lining the beach & offering a wide range of boards for all styles. Sunzal Surf Company offers surfboard rentals with a variety of options to suit different wave conditions and skill levels.
El Tunco Surf School also provides convenient board hire services, ensuring you have everything you need for a great session on the waves. Wayo Surf is another reliable option for surfboard rentals, offering high-quality equipment to help you make the most of El Tunco’s world-class surf breaks.
With plenty of rental options and helpful staff, El Tunco surfboard hire makes it simple to catch waves without the hassle. The convenience & quality gear ensure you’re always ready to surf, whether you’re staying a day or a week.
El Tunco Surf Report & Surf Cam
Proper timing of your surf sessions in El Salvador has become easy due to reliable tools like Surf-Forecast and Surfline. While Surf-Forecast gives accurate swell, wind, and tide charts, Surfline provides live cam footage (subscription required) that allows you to see the wave conditions at the best surf spots of El Salvador in real time.
A Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM makes staying online through your entire trip an easy task. It activates immediately upon your arrival and eliminates the hassle of buying local SIM cards. You can check the surf cams, monitor the forecasts, and effortlessly share your El Tunco surfing highlights.
How To Get To El Tunco Surf
- El Salvador International Airport (SAL) To El Tunco
Distance: 50km (31mi)
El Salvador International Airport (SAL) is the closest arrival point for travelers heading to El Tunco surf. Here’s how to get there.
Public Transport
Approx. 2-2.5 hrs.
Details:
From the airport, you’ll need to take a local bus or taxi to the nearby town of Comalapa or San Luis Talpa. From there, catch a bus toward La Libertad (Route 138 or 102A), which passes through or near El Tunco.
The final leg may require a short walk or tuk-tuk ride from the main road to your hotel. Public transport is very affordable but not particularly direct or comfortable, especially with surfboards. Be prepared for inconsistent timetables & multiple transfers.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 1-1.5 hrs.
Details:
Many surf camps & hostels in El Tunco offer direct shuttle pickups from SAL. These are typically shared vans that run on a schedule, though private options are also available.
Pre-arrange your shuttle via HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to have a vehicle ready upon landing. This hassle-free service takes you from the airport to the beach quickly & comfortably.
El Salvador Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Surfing in El Salvador is all about laid-back vibes and world-class waves, but knowing the essentials helps. The U.S. Dollar is the official currency, and cash is often preferred in surf towns. Spanish is widely spoken, and English may be limited outside tourist areas. Tap water is generally not safe to drink, so stick to bottled.
For a full guide to all 7 essentials, including visa info, health tips, and safety advice, head over to our El Salvador surf page.
Travel Insurance For Your El Tunco Surf Trip
Some disturbances don’t hit while you’re in the water. A failed flight, a lost passport, or suddenly catching an illness can interfere with that El Salvador surf adventure. Travel insurance puts that safety net under the trip, along with providing some help in areas that rely on other people.
VisitorsCoverage is an easy accessibility interface that gives coverage as per actual needs to surf travelers. From medical expenses to replacing a lost luggage, you won’t be solving problems by yourself. Get ready with the swell and everything else that might come your way.
Discover El Tunco: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf isn’t on in El Tunco there are plenty of other exciting activities to explore. Here are 3 recommended activities to make the most of your time.