The Centro Historico is where you’ll find elements of El Salvador’s national history, including the National Theatre, the former National Palace, historic plazas, the new National Library, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, among many other notable sites. There is also a landmark bar, La Dalia, where some of Latin America’s most storied performers stopped by (eg, Pedro Infante, IYKYK). This area comes alive during the Christmas and New Year season. Traffic is messy in and out, but you can find parking. Cash is recommended.

This is the “Central Park” of San Salvador. Just outside the Centro Historico, this walking park features a basketball court, an amphitheater, a monument to Civil War victims, and ample shade for enjoying a lovely day out. Parking can be tricky, but it is worth the trip.

Planes de Renderos is a community up in the hills of San Salvador. It is a windy road, with cafes and restaurants along the way (like Café Kauani). At the very top is a view of the city from a vista called La Puerta del Diablo. It is recommended to go early in the morning to avoid traffic and get a good view!

During the holiday season, the central park in Antiguo Cuscatlán transforms into a night market where locals purchase street food, artisanal goods, and participate in local events (e.g., concerts, Torito Pinto, and fireworks shows). The main attraction is on 12/28, when they celebrate their patron festival, “Día de los Inocentes.” Parking is limited at the top, so you’ll likely need to park at the bottom of the hill and walk up to the festivities.

Museo de Arte de El Salvador (MARTE) is an art museum in San Benito. Here you’ll find a mix of classic and modern art from regional and Salvadoran artists.

The Museo Nacional de Antropología (MUNA) is an anthropology museum where visitors can learn about El Salvador indigenous history and contemporaneous history.

Playa El Tunco is considered to be a “backpackers’ paradise.” Numerous boutique hotel options, restaurants, bars, and excellent surf. This and El Zonte are two of the options where you are most likely to find foreigners and more English speakers.

El Zonte is a surf town that has recently gained prominence due to its growing Bitcoin community. There are various boutique hotels and rustic hostels, and it is about 20 minutes away from El Tunco. Again, this is one of the areas where you’ll find the most English speakers.

El Sunzal is renowned worldwide for its surfing. This is also an area that features hotels (e.g., Club Sunzal), as well as rentals and hostels. There are also nearby convenience stores.

El Majahual is more of a locals’ option, offering more rustic options, street vendors, and beachside vendors. There are also hotels, hostels, and rental options available. It’s a hidden gem, but you’ll need to be prepared for some off-road conditions and bring your food with you.

The Arias family favorite, El Palmarcito offers both low-key amenities and more formal accommodations (e.g. Club Atami). This black-sand beach is great for surf, swimming, and sunbathing.