I really enjoyed my time in the Ruta de las Flores area of El Salvador. Juayua was the perfect base to explore this diverse region of small towns, volcanoes, lakes, waterfalls, festivals and very friendly Salvadoreans.
Now, after seven weeks in Central America without one look at the Pacific (since leaving Northern California) I was ready for the beach! I decided to go to El Zonte, a quiet surf beach as opposed to one of the more touristy surf spots. A high recommendation of the Ecencia Nativa Hostel there from my friends at Hostel Anahuac sealed the plan and off on the bus I went!
I was thinking a would probably spend a couple days at the beach and then head south to Nicaragua. Well, it was so gorgeous, the water around 85 degrees, some serious waves, nights dancing on the beach and so totally chill that I ended up spending a week there!
What was missing? Internet, fancy hotels, overpriced restaurants, ATMs (bring cash) condos, in essence over development. What was there? Surfers local and imported, as well as two very nice hostels with pools, good inexpensive food and beautiful gardens. There were also, some shacks and rooms to rent.
Sunrise at Playa El Zonte, El Salvador
Welcome to El Zonte
I did one day trip to nearby Playa El Tunco, another nice surf beach with more surfers, businesses, restaurants and hotels. It was fun, but I was glad I decided to stay in El Zonte. I found the chill vibe personally suitable. On the way back, I stopped briefly at Playa El Sunzal. There were only some open-sided shacks with locals picnicking there. I played with the local kids charging into the surf together on the count of three. After about six times of this we were laughing so hard, I could hardly breath!
I tried some cashew fruit. They are supposed to be sweet but these were not so much. The cashew grows on top.
Cashew Fruit
Hostel View
Hostel View of Playa El Zonte
Beachside Checkers Salvadorean Style
Surf's Up
Scarlet Macaw
Business Opportunity
Is it the perfect beach? You will have to judge that for yourself. I have been to a lot of beaches, tropical and otherwise, and could definitely hang here!
Another Day Ends at Playa El Zonte
Sorry the view is so shabby!! You look happy and great!! Keep the pics & stories coming…
Hey Joanne–so glad you are enjoying my musings. Big energetic hug going out 2U ala Costa Ricas! Pura Vida!!
Looks like you are having a fabulous time. Sorry about missing your call today. I have Sunday and Monday off, so give a try then if you can. So happy you are having the time of your life. I wish there was some way I could join you along the way.
all the best,
ben
Hey Benni! You are the inspiration for this trip! Love you Bro! I just arrived in Liberia and am having a deja vu moment. I’ll Skype you in the morrow!
Wow! Gorgeous beach indeed~the sunset and macaw photos are exquisite. You look so happy and content, Philip. Nice. It continues to be so much fun following you on this journey and seeing places I’ve never been. Keep these awesome photos coming and take good care.
Thanks for the heart and support Judie!