El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America and the only one without a coast to the Caribbean Sea. Its 321km coastal line faces completely to the south with an angular direction completely to the south pole, causing its waves to originate from 170° to 225°.
Its coastal location is created due to the ring of fire and the Cocos tectonic plate, underneath the Caribbean plate. This location creates a unique coast with protected cliffs, rocks and inlets, which are perfect for creating high waves and excellent shape which are regarded of high level and quality for the sport of surfing.
Through its 311km of coast, the Balsam and the Jucuaran-Intipuca mountain ranges can be found, which form this geographic difference that generate the perfect waves and spikes, with surfs to the right due to the angle at which it receives the swells from the south.
The U.S. dollar is legal tender. It is advisable to exchange currencies at the airport exchange offices, since other currencies are not accepted in stores within the national territory. Credit cards are accepted in most commercial establishments. There are ATMs throughout the country, especially in shopping malls, gas stations, hotels, among others. There is also an ATM at El Tunco beach.
Government: Democratic Republic.
Official Language: Spanish.
Other languages: English is spoken in hotels and other tourism related services.
World Time: GMT -06:00
Climate: In general, El Salvador’s climate is warm or tropical during most of the year. The annual average temperature is 28° C, ranging between 25° C and 28° C. For weather forecasts, it is recommended that visitors check the weather at the official website of the Ministry of Environment
Banking hours: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm. Some exceptions work until 5:00, 6:00 and 7:00 pm.
Electricity: 110w