Situated some 25 mi/40 km southwest of San Salvador, the Pacific coast resort of La Libertad, El Salvador, offers some of the world's best surfing. Consequently, it is packed with city dwellers on weekends. A short distance west is Zunzal, where international surfing competitions are held.
But the big waves are not for novices, and beware of strong undertows when swimming—the beaches are not protected from the huge Pacific swells.
There's a pier on the black-sand beach, and good seafood is available in local restaurants.
Note: Exercise caution when visiting La Libertad and the surrounding area: There has been a high incidence of assaults and robberies. Avoid walking around town after dark. Surfers have also experienced problems with crime on the beach.
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