Chiltiupán: La Libertad Costa

The coastal highway west from Puerto de La Libertad offers a breathtaking route of dramatic rocky outcrops and stunning viewpoints. But immediately after you emerge from the first of five tunnels carved into the rock of the verdant cliffs along the highway, you can't miss the perfect waves breaking hundreds of meters below on the beach known as K59.

After the initial view, just under a kilometer down the highway, you'll discover a path leading you to this paradise of waves, dominated by a massive split rock formation. To the left lies a river of grey rocks, to the right is a perfectly framed black sand beach.

As with most surf spots in El Salvador, K59 is a rocky point break that is a prime target for South Pacific swells, creating a fast wave machine with right-hand breaks, long lines, barrel sections, and a wide, steep wall.

Between March and August this spot fires off waves of up to 12 feet (4 meters). The rest of the year, especially November through December, wave size diminishes. Nonetheless, the rocky bottom and powerful waves make it unsuitable for beginners.

K59 is surrounded by mountains and coastal forests from the southern mountain range in El Salvador that was known as the balsam coast, thanks to historic balsam tree plantations prized for their precious resin since colonial times.

Tourism development remains in its infancy in this area, keeping crowds refreshingly thin. Nonetheless, basic accommodations and campsites await surfers, along with a number of rental properties. It's just a 20-minute drive or bus ride to Puerto de La Libertad, where you can grab whatever supplies you need.

To reach K59 from San Salvador, take the road to Puerto de La Libertad, turn right on the coastal highway and continue past the first tunnel.