La Libertad

Surf's up in La Libertad, the most popular surfer's beach in El Salvador. It's also got a great malecon for evening strolls, with several good seafood restaurants with ocean views and spectacular sunsets.

Understand
La Libertad is a great beach with long, wide stretches of sand and blue waters. You can tan yourself, walk along the beach and collect shells, or hang out in town and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Most people coming to Libertad are here for the surfing though.

Get in
You can take bus 102 from the corner of 17a Av Sur and 6a Calle Poniente in the city center, US$0.60.

Get around
You can walk and surf in the nearest beaches. Buses from Liberad to other beaches like El Tunco and SunZal cost US$0.25 and catching a ride in a truck is always an option.

Do
La Libertad beaches are some of the best surfing beaches in Central America.

If you plan to surf, understand that these are the local's breaks also. Expect them to drop in on you, but if you drop in on them, they might say something. There are numerous places to rent boards and many of the hostels outside of La Libertad have a decent selection. Most rent per day for US$5-6 and up to US$12 per day at Hospital de Tables (best selection in one place). If you are new to surfing, SunZal is an easy point break but can be crowded on weekends. Surf boards are allowed on all buses with no additional cost. Enter through the back door where the seats are removed.













Eat
You can eat the world famous cocteles de camaron (shrimp cocktails) and a lot of seafood. Pupusas seem to be a staple food for travelers and 3 for a dollar is hard to beat. These are sold just about everywhere in Libertad and all along the highway. The local comedors along the highway and in town also sell large plates of tipico for US$2-4, well worth the splurge. There is a selection of higher priced gourmet restaurants dotted throughout the area also.



Drink
The neighboring town of El Tunco has most of the bars frequented by travelers and local surfers. Beer starts at a dollar in most places. Watch for event parties in Libertad on the weekends at the pavilion near the beach.

Sleep
There are many options along the coast ranging from $5 to $50 per night.


 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.
 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.
 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.
 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.
 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.
 * Kali Hostel is also in this area with beds for about 125 Colons.

Stay safe
Staying safe in the city is very important. As many other cities in El Salvador, La Libertad is highly populated but unlike San Salvador it has a lower crime rate. Common sense rules apply as in most places:


 * Don't wear expensive jewelry.
 * Don't hang out in places that look abandoned.
 * If you rent a car don't rent a luxury car.

Go next

 * San Salvador
 * Los Volcanes National Park