Surf: General: Located just up the road from La Libertad, Playa Conchalio is a mile-long stretch of sand/rock-bottom peaks that are often speedy, thumping and full of barrels. Conchalio is tricky to score since it picks up most anything coming in from the South Pacific and can become torn to pieces between spring and autumn (rainy season), when the winds clock onshore without fail every day around noon. In fact, the best time to give it a look is during late autumn through winter (dry season), when offshore winds really open up the barrels and provide clean exits.

Playa Conchalio is a rather local stretch of coastline with just a few small hotels and hostels to choose from. The lack of tourism infrastructure is a bonus for those seeking an infusion of culture in their surf trip, as well as fairly uncrowded surf. Nevertheless, surfing has become woven into the fabric of coastal Salvadorian life since traveling gringo surfers introduced the sport to nearby Sunzal and Punta Roca in the 1970s, so you'll be sharing the waves with plenty of talented locals. Playa Conchalio's wave quality is a far cry from El Salvador's other, world-class waves but it's always worth a check on flat days. Tides: All tides Size: Chest high-overhead+ Wind: Light North Swell: SSW, SW Bottom: Sand, rock Paddling: Not too bad. Spot Rating: Beach break for smaller days. Access: Easy. Just off the highway, west of Libertad. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Can get thick, depending on swell. Local Vibe: Humility and respect appreciated, especially when it's good. Environment: Depends on rains. Hazards: Closeouts. Season: Southern Hemisphere fall into winter for the most consistent surf.