El Tunco Surfing & Tamanique Waterfalls
A weekend getaway right by the sea: learn to surf, watch black sand beach sunsets, and hike Tamanique Waterfalls.
Based in the town of El Tunco with no hotel changes. Watch the sunset on Day 1, take a surf lesson and visit Puerto de La Libertad on Day 2, and hike the waterfalls before heading to the airport on Day 3. Its proximity to the airport makes it ideal for those with limited time or as a relaxing end to a longer trip. This route does not go inland, so volcanoes and colonial towns must be arranged separately. The waterfalls are on private land, so hiring a guide is recommended.
Surfing is available year-round; rip currents are strong, so check sea conditions before entering the water.
Day by day
Day 1 · Arrive in El Tunco & Watch the Sunset
Pre-book an airport transfer to El Tunco (about 1 hour). Local taxis are scarce, so booking in advance is advised.
Stay: El Tunco Town
Day 2 · Surf Lesson at Playa El Sunzal
El Tunco（El Sunzal、Puerto de La Libertad）
Walk to Playa El Sunzal for a surf lesson. In the afternoon, take a coastal highway bus or chartered car to La Libertad (about 20 minutes).
Do not walk along the CA-2 highway at night.
Stay: El Tunco Town
Day 3 · Tamanique Waterfalls & Departure
El Tunco（Tamanique Waterfalls）
Take a chartered car to Tamanique in the morning (about 25 minutes), hike downhill for about 35 minutes, and transfer to the airport after returning.
Wear non-slip shoes; the uphill return hike is physically demanding.