Here are all resorts in El Salvador that we mention in this article, highlighted in Google Maps + booking & more info links: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1t1WiEuK0-0XUyyBArAEdyFk9HQgU1kk&usp=sharing
Choosing to stay in a resort in El Salvador offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. The country is known for its stunning landscapes, from beautiful beaches to lush mountains, making it an ideal destination for various activities such as surfing, hiking, and exploring local culture.
Resorts often provide amenities that enhance the travel experience, including pools, spas, and organized activities. Additionally, many resorts are strategically located near popular attractions, allowing guests to easily explore the rich heritage and natural beauty of El Salvador.
Besides all that, staying in a resort will give you an extra layer of safety. Traveling with kids? Even better to stay at a resort! You don’t have to cook or clean and there is lots of help to keep the kids entertained.
Isn't El Salvador Safe Enough to Stay in an Airbnb?
Safety is a common concern for travelers considering accommodations in El Salvador. While some areas may have safety issues, many resorts and hotels are located in secure neighborhoods with 24/7 security.
It's always advisable to research specific locations and read reviews from previous guests to gauge safety levels. Resorts typically offer better security measures compared to private rentals like Airbnbs, making them a safer choice for families or first-time visitors.
Our experience in El Salvador considering safety
We traveled to Surf City with our 10 month old and stayed in an Airbnb for 4 weeks. Our accomodation was within Atami, a gated community with 24/7 security. And we felt super safe. Our host was also very sure about our safety, because he didn’t care that the entrance door to the property didn’t lock!
At first we were thrown off by this, but we got used to it. We had a big gate to our property that we could lock, we have seen the security guys ride around at night, and we have friends living within Atami that say the same: it’s safe here, no worries.
So, we would say it’s very safe to stay in an Airbnb, IF it’s within a gated community. We do not have the experience of staying outside of a community like this, so we can’t give our opinion about that.
What to Look Out for When Booking a Resort in El Salvador
When booking a resort in El Salvador, several key factors should be considered to ensure a fulfilling experience.
Location: Proximity to Attractions and Activities
Choosing a resort with a convenient location is vital for maximizing your vacation. Look for resorts situated near popular attractions, beautiful beaches, and local activities. For instance, Las Flores Resort is located near the famous surf break at Playa Las Flores, making it ideal for surfing enthusiasts and beachgoers alike. Additionally, being close to towns or cultural sites can enhance your experience by providing easy access to local dining and entertainment options.
Amenities: Look for Pools, Spas, and Dining Options
The amenities offered by a resort can significantly impact your stay. Consider what facilities are available, such as swimming pools, spas, and dining options. For example, the InterContinental San Salvador boasts a lavish spa, outdoor pool, and multiple on-site restaurants, ensuring guests have various leisure and dining choices. These amenities can enhance relaxation and enjoyment during your stay.
Reviews: Check Ratings on Platforms Like Booking.com
Before finalizing your booking, it’s essential to read reviews from previous guests on platforms like Booking.com or Expedia. These reviews provide insights into the experiences of others and can highlight both strengths and weaknesses of the resort. For instance, The Views Resort has received positive feedback for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to the beach, making it a popular choice among travelers.
Price: Ensure It Fits Your Budget While Providing Value
Budget considerations are crucial when selecting a resort. Ensure that the price aligns with your budget while still offering good value for the amenities and services provided. Resorts like Hilton San Salvador offer competitive pricing along with extensive amenities such as free WiFi and dining options. Comparing prices across different resorts can help you find the best deal without compromising on quality.
Unique Features: Identify What Makes Each Resort Special
Each resort may offer unique features that cater to specific interests or preferences. For example, Palo Verde Sustainable Hotel emphasizes eco-friendliness while providing luxurious accommodations near prime surfing spots. Identifying these unique aspects can help you choose a resort that aligns with your personal values or interests.
Your Own Requirements: Traveling with Kids?
If you are traveling with children, it's important to consider family-friendly amenities and activities offered by the resort. Look for resorts that provide kid-friendly pools, activities, or special programs designed for younger guests. The Views Resort is noted for its family-oriented services, making it an excellent choice for those traveling with kids. Ensuring that the resort meets your family's needs will contribute to a more enjoyable vacation experience.
All resorts worth mentioning in El Salvador
Reminder: we created a list of resorts in El Salvador on Google Maps: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1t1WiEuK0-0XUyyBArAEdyFk9HQgU1kk&usp=sharing
We divided the resorts per region, like resorts in the mountains or resorts close to surf breaks.
Let’s dive in:
Resorts in Surf City (La Libertad, El Tunco, San Blas, Atami, El Zonte)
Surf City is renowned for its world-class surfing spots and laid-back atmosphere.
Garten Hotel, Resort & Penthouse (El Zonte)
A boutique resort offering modern accommodations and a rooftop penthouse with stunning ocean views.
Josien went here on her birthday for a massage and hammam treatment and it was pure bliss. We can not say enough about this beautiful resort and the spa treatments they offer, highly recommended!
- Amenities: Hand-made furniture, private terrace bath, indoor garden, full-service in-room spa, and ocean views in three directions.
- View: Panoramic ocean views from the terrace and bathing areas.
- Activities: Yoga, beach club access, surfing, massages, and meditation.
- Price per Night: From $468 (they have more affordable options too)
- Ranking on Expedia: 9.2/10
- Unique Feature: Private bath on the terrace with ocean views and custom interior design focused on nature and relaxation
Atami Escape Resort (Atami)
Atami Escape Resort features spacious accommodations with breathtaking ocean views. The resort is perfect for families and groups looking to enjoy various activities such as beach volleyball and kayaking while relaxing by the pool or spa.
We stayed in an Airbnb in the Atami gated community, so we spend quiet some time at this resort’s restaurant Pelicanos and entered the private beach from here. The board walk is amazing at sunset and the restaurant, Palicanos, is one of our favorites in the area!
- Amenities: Pool, spa, A/C
- View: Ocean view
- Activities: Surf(!!) and beach games available
- Price per Night: $110
- Ranking on Expedia: 8.6/10
- Unique Feature: Family-friendly atmosphere with extensive recreational facilities and access to a private beach with tide pools
Punta Roca Surf Resort (La Libertad/San Blas)
A surfer's haven with direct access to the Punta Roca surf break. This is a surf break with some localism, so be aware when in the water.
Amenities: Pool, surfboard rentals, surf lessons
View: Ocean view
Activities: Surfing, snorkeling, and fishing
Price per Night: $85
Ranking on Expedia: 8.4/10
Unique Feature: Steps away from one of the best surf breaks in El Salvador.
Casa de Mar Hotel (El Tunco)
Casa de Mar Hotel offers beautifully designed rooms that blend luxury with nature. Guests can enjoy yoga sessions overlooking the ocean or indulge in organic meals prepared from local ingredients.
- Amenities: Pool, A/C, organic dining options.
- View: Ocean view.
- Activities: Yoga classes, eco-friendly tours.
- Price per Night: $110.
- Ranking on Expedia: 9.0/10.
- Unique Feature: Emphasizes eco-friendly practices and organic, locally sourced meals.
Boca Olas Resort Villas (El Tunco)
Spacious villas with kitchens, perfect for families or long stays. The resort offers all the amenities needed for a relaxing beach vacation.
- Amenities: Pool, A/C, kitchen
- View: Ocean view
- Activities: Snorkeling trips, beach activities
- Price per Night: $150
- Ranking on Expedia: 9.1/10
- Unique Feature: Villas equipped with kitchens for self-catering.
Mizata By Antiresort (Mizata)
Mizata By Antiresort offers a unique rustic experience surrounded by nature. The property features comfortable accommodations where guests can unwind after a day of surfing or hiking.
- Amenities: Pool, A/C
- View: Ocean view
- Activities: Surfing, hiking
- Price per Night: $95
- Ranking on Expedia: 8.7/10
- Unique Feature: Rustic design integrated with nature.
Paraiso Escondido Hotel, Resort & Villas (20 min from Surf City region)
A serene resort offering private villas surrounded by lush nature, ideal for a tranquil getaway.
Amenities: Pool, spa, A/C
View: Forest and ocean views
Activities: Hiking, nature tours
Price per Night: $120
Ranking on Expedia: 8.9/10
Unique Feature: Private villas offering seclusion and relaxation.
Puro Surf Hotel & Performance Academy (El Zonte)
Puro Surf Hotel combines luxury accommodations with a top-notch surf academy. Guests can enjoy personalized surf coaching while relaxing in stylish rooms with stunning ocean views.
- Amenities: Pool, spa, A/C
- View: Ocean view
- Activities: Surfing school
- Price per Night: $120
- Ranking on Expedia: 9.4/10
- Unique Feature: Renowned surf academy for all skill levels.
Coco Surf Tropical Village (La Libertad)
Coco Surf offers a welcoming environment for surfers of all levels. The resort features comfortable accommodations and a communal vibe that encourages interaction among guests.
- Amenities: Pool, A/C
- View: Ocean view
- Activities: Surf lessons, board rentals
- Price per Night: $85
- Ranking on Expedia: 9.2/10
- Unique Feature: Focus on building a surfing community for all levels.
Majahual Resort (La Libertad)
A tranquil beachfront resort with an emphasis on relaxation and privacy.
Amenities: Pool, spa, A/C
View: Ocean view
Activities: Beach games, kayaking
Price per Night: $100
Ranking on Expedia: 8.4/10
Unique Feature: Private beach access for a more exclusive experience.
Resorts in San Salvador (the city)
San Salvador is the vibrant capital of El Salvador, offering cultural attractions and urban conveniences.
Hilton (San Salvador)
A modern luxury hotel in the heart of the city.
Amenities: Pool, spa, gym, A/C.
View: City view.
Activities: Cultural tours, nightlife nearby.
Price per Night: $150.
Ranking on Expedia: 4.7/5.
Unique Feature: Central location with extensive business facilities.
Barcelo San Salvador (San Salvador)
Barcelo San Salvador combines modern luxury with vibrant city life. Guests can unwind at the pool or explore local restaurants and bars within walking distance.
- Amenities: Pool, spa, A/C.
- View: City view.
- Activities: Nightlife, urban tours.
- Price per Night: $100.
- Ranking on Expedia: 8.6/10.
- Unique Feature: Close proximity to San Salvador’s nightlife scene.
Hotel Mirador Plaza (San Salvador)
Hotel Mirador Plaza provides cozy accommodations with personalized service. Its central location makes it easy for guests to explore the city's attractions.
- Amenities: A/C, personalized service.
- View: City view.
- Activities: Local city tours.
- Price per Night: $90.
- Ranking on Expedia: 8.4/10.
- Unique Feature: Offers tailored, personalized service for guests.
Sheraton Presidente San Salvador (San Salvador)
The Sheraton Presidente offers upscale accommodations with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy leisure activities such as golf or relax at the spa after a busy day.
- Amenities: Pool, spa, A/C, golf course nearby.
- View: City view.
- Activities: Golf, spa treatments.
- Price per Night: $130.
- Ranking on Expedia: 9.1/10.
- Unique Feature: Ideal for business travelers with extensive corporate facilities.
Resorts in the Mountains of El Salvador
The mountainous regions offer cooler climates and breathtaking views.
Casa 1800 Cerro Verde Boutique Hotel
A charming boutique hotel set in the Cerro Verde mountains.
Amenities: Restaurant, spa, A/C.
View: Volcano and mountain views.
Activities: Nature hikes, birdwatching.
Price per Night: $140.
Ranking on Expedia: 9/10
Unique Feature: Located within a national park.
Hotel Finca Campo Bello (Cerro Verde National Park)
A peaceful eco-lodge surrounded by nature.
Amenities: Restaurant, spa, WiFi.
View: Forest view.
Activities: Hiking, coffee farm tours.
Price per Night: $120.
Ranking on Expedia: 8.8/10
Unique Feature: Set within a coffee farm.
Los Almendros Eco-Lodge (La Palma)
Los Almendros Eco-Lodge offers eco-conscious accommodations that harmonize with their natural surroundings. Guests can enjoy nature walks through nearby trails while experiencing sustainable living practices firsthand.
- Amenities: Spa, A/C, organic dining.
- View: Mountain view.
- Activities: Nature walks, wildlife tours.
- Price per Night: $100.
- Ranking on Expedia: 10/10 (!!)
- Unique Feature: Built from sustainable materials.
Resorts by the Lakes in El Salvador
Lakeside resorts provide serene environments perfect for relaxation.
Cardedeu Residence - Lake Resort (Coatepeque Lake)
Cardedeu Residence Lake Resort boasts luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views of the lake from every room. The infinity pool provides an exquisite setting for relaxation while enjoying stunning sunsets over the water.
- Amenities: Infinity pool, spa, A/C.
- View: Lake view.
- Activities: Fishing tours, boat rentals.
- Price per Night: $95.
- Ranking on Expedia: 9.1/10.
- Unique Feature: Infinity pool with breathtaking lake and sunset views.
Villa Noelia (El Congo)
Cozy and modern accommodations by the lake.
Amenities: Private beach, A/C, restaurant.
View: Lake view.
Activities: Kayaking, fishing.
Price per Night: $110.
Ranking on Expedia: 9.2/10
Unique Feature: Private access to the lake.
Tres Piedras - Lake Hotel
Elegant lakeside hotel offering breathtaking views.
Amenities: Spa, A/C, restaurant.
View: Lake and volcano views.
Activities: Boat tours, hiking.
Price per Night: $130.
Ranking on Expedia: 9.2/10
Unique Feature: Stunning views of Lake Coatepeque.
Equinoccio Hotel
A serene lakefront retreat with luxury accommodations.
Amenities: Pool, spa, WiFi.
View: Lake view.
Activities: Fishing, boat rides.
Price per Night: $140.
Ranking on Expedia: 8.8/10
Unique Feature: Private beach access.
Beach (and surf) Resorts in El Salvador (outside of Surf City)
Royal Decameron Salinitas - All Inclusive (Los Cobanos)
Royal Decameron Salinitas offers an all-inclusive experience with multiple dining options and entertainment activities. Guests can relax by one of the many pools or partake in water sports along the beach.
- Amenities: Multiple pools, spa, A/C.
- View: Ocean view.
- Activities: Water sports, nightly entertainment.
- Price per Night: $180.
- Ranking on Expedia: 7/10
- Unique Feature: All-inclusive with diverse dining options.
Surf Resort Punta Mango (Punta Mango)
Surf Resort Punta Mango provides an intimate surfing experience with personalized packages tailored to individual skill levels while offering comfortable accommodations just steps away from pristine beaches perfect for catching waves.
- Amenities: Pool, spa, A/C.
- View: Ocean view.
- Activities: Surfing, paddleboarding.
- Price per Night: $100.
- Ranking Expedia: 8.9/10
- Unique Feature: Exclusive surf packages tailored for enthusiasts.
Paradise Surf Hotel (Punta Las Flores, El Cuco)
Paradise Surf Hotel boasts comfortable rooms just steps away from the beach. Guests can take advantage of tailored surfing packages designed to enhance their experience on the waves.
- Amenities: Pool, A/C, restaurant.
- View: Beach view.
- Activities: Surfing lessons and packages.
- Price per Night: $100.
- Ranking on Expedia: 4.4/5.
- Unique Feature: Located near top surf breaks.
Vista Las Olas Surf Resort (El Cuco)
Luxurious beachfront resort ideal for surfing and relaxation.
Amenities: Pool, spa, A/C.
View: Ocean view.
Activities: Surfing, yoga, snorkeling.
Price per Night: $150.
Ranking on Expedia: 8.2/10
Unique Feature: Premier surf location with wellness activities.
Hotel Tesoro Beach
Las Flores Resort & Surf Club (Playa Las Flores)
Las Flores Resort offers luxurious accommodations directly in front of a famous surf break. The resort emphasizes sustainability while providing guests with an array of wellness activities and gourmet dining options.
- Amenities: Spa, pool, A/C.
- View: Ocean view.
- Activities: Yoga, wellness programs, surfing.
- Price per Night: $150.
- Ranking on Expedia: 8.8/10
- Unique Feature: Environmentally conscious resort design.
Las Hojas Resort and Beach Club
Family-friendly resort with spacious villas and beachfront access
Amenities: Pool, A/C, restaurant.
View: Ocean view.
Activities: Water sports, kids’ programs.
Price per Night: $160.
Ranking on Expedia: 6.4/10
Unique Feature: Family-friendly atmosphere with beach access.
Azul Surf Club (El Cuco)
Laid-back resort catering to surfers of all skill levels.
Amenities: Pool, A/C, surf school.
View: Ocean view.
Activities: Surfing, paddleboarding.
Price per Night: $90.
Ranking on Expedia: 6.2/10
Unique Feature: Personalized surf lessons.
Izalco Hotel & Beach Resort (La Paz)
Stylish beachfront resort with modern amenities.
Amenities: Pool, A/C, restaurant.
View: Ocean view.
Activities: Water sports, beach volleyball.
Price per Night: $140.
Ranking on Expedia: 7/10
Unique Feature: Family-friendly resort with recreational activities.
El Salvador's resorts cater to a variety of preferences and budgets while providing unique experiences that highlight the country's natural beauty and rich culture.
