We first visited El Salvador over a decade ago and immediately recognised the incredible potential of this wave-rich country. It was a no-brainer to set up our bodyboard trips there, and now El Salvador stands as one of our most sought-after bodyboard escapes year on year.
This destination embodies everything bodyboarders seek—pristine waves, stunning coastline, and a vibrant surf culture. Over the years, we’ve cultivated a strong relationship with the local bodyboarding community, giving back to those who warmly share their waves with us.
El Salvador’s evolution into a premier bodyboarding destination is a testament to its transformation and commitment to surf tourism. Guests that have joined Bodyboard Holidays and experienced the world-class bodyboarding El Salvador offers, keep on returning. It really is a destination that should be on every bodyboarders bucket list!
For decades, El Salvador carried the weight of its troubled past—war, gang violence, and crime—a history that hardly beckons tourists. However, enter a new era led by a visionary young president, Nayib Bukele, with bold ambitions to rewrite the narrative through the ‘Surf City’ campaign.
Over the past three years, El Salvador has invested a staggering USD $70 million into surf tourism, with an additional USD $100 million recently approved. This strategic push aims to leverage the country’s breathtaking coastline to spark transformation. Notably, El Salvador has become the first Central American nation to host a World Surf League Championship Tour event, a testament to the government’s long-term vision.
President Bukele’s unconventional approach underscores his belief in surfing as a catalyst for change. Despite not being a surfer himself, he recognises surfing as a vital part of El Salvador’s future. At the 2021 ISA World Surfing Games, Bukele declared, “To change our past, we must build a new destiny—surfing is a pillar of that future.”
Since taking office in 2019, the ‘Surf City’ initiative has propelled investments into tourism infrastructure, surf events, and marketing campaigns. These efforts include water treatment facilities, tourism police stations, bike lanes, and improved internet access—all aimed at positioning El Salvador as a global leader in surf tourism.
Early indicators are promising. Despite pandemic challenges, El Salvador’s tourism industry has rebounded impressively, already achieving 80% of pre-pandemic levels. The country expects 1.9 million visitors this year, nearing its 2019 peak of 2 million. The impact on local businesses is tangible. Families, not just hardcore surfers, are drawn to El Salvador’s evolving surf scene.
Getting to know the local bodyboarders has been one of the most enriching experiences for the Bodyboard-Holidays guests and instructors. Sharing waves, sunset drinks and seeing the local crew in action is always flagged up as a highlight for the guests. Each year, our guests and instructors travel with extra boards, swim fins, lycra rash vests, suncream etc. These items are expensive for the local bodyboarders to buy, so the annual delivery by the Bodyboard-Holidays guests and staff, helps to keep the riders in the water, enjoying the sport that they love. Watch the video which showcases the local riders in action and shares the experience of the guests, trip leaders coming together for their annual meet up.
El Salvador is one of those rare places where there are often as many if not more bodyboarders in the line up as surfers. The Boog-vibe is strong and the standard of the local bodyboarders is incredible. A stand out of the local crew is ‘Zancudo’ who is revered as the best stand up bodyboard rider in the world. His skills are phenomenal! You need to see them to believe them. Watch our video about his incredible, freakish skills!
Joining Bodyboard Holidays in El Salvador offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a dynamic surf culture and experience world-class waves in a stunning setting. Our long-standing relationship with local bodyboarders ensures an authentic and rewarding experience, where you can connect with the community and share in their passion for the sport.
El Salvador’s transformation into a premier bodyboarding destination, coupled with our dedication to giving back to the local community, makes this trip even more meaningful. Whether you’re a seasoned bodyboarder or new to the sport, El Salvador promises adventure and unforgettable memories. If you like the idea of riding pristine waves, exploring a vibrant coastline, and connecting with fellow bodyboarders in this remarkable surf paradise – this trip is for you!
For more information about our El Salvador holidays and our other bodyboard escapes head to bodyboard-holidays.com today. If you have any questions get in touch and one of our team of bodyboarding experts will get back to you right away!
