Acajutla: Sonsonate Oeste

Los Cóbanos is a small fishing village in the western department of Sonsonate, located 11 kilometers west of the departmental capital and Acajutla seaport.

Several pristine beaches surround Los Cóbanos, notable for their golden honey-colored sand, coral, calm waters, and rock formations all along the coast, creating a truly magical destination in El Salvador.

The overall area of Los Cóbanos covers 264 square kilometers of marine ecosystem in a natural protected area, thanks to its incredible environmental diversity and richness.

While not known for surfing due to the surrounding coral reef that forms a breakwater and a large area of calm ocean, spots like the nearby Salinitas Beach boast channels in the reefs that create small but consistent waves, ideal for SUP surfing and paddleboarding.

Hidden gems include a series of rock formations around 800 meters from shore, which on large-swell days produce outer reef waves that can reach up to 10 feet (3.5 meters), and peel for 200 meters before hitting deeper water. These spots can only be accessed by boat and with a local guide.

From November to February, conditions become perfect for scuba diving to explore the dozens of volcanic reefs and a few sunken ships, which are home to abundant marine life and formations. There are also good areas on the coast for snorkeling and canoeing.

This area is famous for sport fishing at deep sea trenches that sit just a few kilometers off the coast, home to trophy species such as mahi-mahi, sailfish, wahoo, tuna, and marlin. Friendly local fishermen eagerly share their boats, equipment, and experience to organize an epic day of fishing.

Whale watching is a special attraction at Los Cóbanos, with the chance to glimpse humpback whales. Marine biologists have discovered that the nutrient-rich waters in this area draw these magnificent creatures, who feed and rest here in January and February before continuing their journey that takes them from Alaska to Ecuador. Local guides offer tours to witness this incredible spectacle.

This coastal paradise has flourished, and infrastructure now supports a wide range of food, lodging, and other services available.

To get to Los Cóbanos from San Salvador, take the Pan-American Highway toward Sonsonate, then the exit for Acajutla until Kilometer 5. Three kilometers further, you will find the turn-off to Los Cóbanos, which is another 7km down the road.