They say great things come in small packages. And while El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America, it is a tropical powerhouse.
It has exquisite beaches, world-class surfing conditions, tropical forests, coffee plantations, and welcoming locals. The country has branded itself as a remote part of the continent, and like any place without a considerable tourism scene, this is part of what makes it such a stand-out destination.
And while the country isn’t huge, figuring out where to stay in El Salvador can be a bit tricky. Do you want to wake up on a Pacific beach, or would you rather explore the street art in the capital? Maybe you’d prefer to sip coffee in the highlands surrounded by coffee plantations?
Each area has its own personality, and staying in the right place can make a big difference. So, on that note, let’s get into my ULTIMATE guide on the best places to stay in El Salvador
Photo: @amandaadraper
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in El Salvador?
Overwhelmed? Confused? Stressed about time? These three properties are my top picks when it comes to finding accommodation in El Salvador:
Cinco Hotel B&B, San Salvador | Best B&B in El Salvador
Cinco Hotel B&B feels like a hidden sanctuary in the busy capital city. It’s located in one of San Salvador’s most stylish neighborhoods, within walking distance of trendy cafes and boutique shops.
The B&B has an inner courtyard and is charmingly decorated, perfect for travelers who appreciate a bit of luxury and comfort with a creative flair.
The Coffee Garden Hostel, Santa Ana / Coatepeque Lake | Best Hostel in El Salvador
The Coffee Garden Hostel is tucked away in a leafy, laid-back part of Santa Ana. It is exactly what it sounds like — a hostel surrounded by coffee gardens. But more than that, this place to stay in El Salvador is a comfortable, social hub that breeds good vibes.
It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers, with plenty of comfy dorm rooms, but there are also some private rooms for those who need a little bit more space.
Casa 1800 Suchitoto, Suchitoto | Best Airbnb in El Salvador
Perched on the edge of a hill overlooking the blue waters of Lake Suchitlan, Casa 1800 is pure magic. It’s a boutique hotel set in a traditional Spanish colonial home, which beautifully blends colonial fittings with contemporary styles in a way that feels totally timeless.
The best part of this property is the front terrace, which is covered by shady trees and overlooks the beautiful lake. Oh, and the restaurant – that’s pretty cool too.
El Salvador Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in El Salvador
San Salvador
San Salvador is the energetic heart of El Salvador. This city never had the best reputation, but a lot of work and development is putting it back on the map.
Suchitoto
If you’re wondering where to stay in El Salvador without breaking the bank, Suchitoto is one of the country’s most charming small towns. It’s not big, but it is one of the world’s best-preserved Spanish colonial cities.
Playa El Tunco / La Libertad
Playa El Tunco is El Salvador’s surf capital. It’s a hotspot for backpackers, digital nomads, and ultimately, anyone chasing the wave of their life.
Santa Ana / Coatepeque Lake
Consider Santa Ana the country’s adventure hub. This busy little town is surrounded by volcanoes, coffee farms, and the famous Coatepeque Lake, making it one of the most naturally striking El Salvador neighborhoods.
Juayua
Juayua – pronounced ‘whu-yoo-ahh’ – is a food lover’s paradise. It’s best known for hosting a weekly food festival called the Feria Gastronomica, where you can sample delicious street food and traditional dishes.
El Salvador might be small, but it packs a real punch when it comes to the diversity of landscapes. One moment, you’re lounging on the beach along the Pacific Ocean, surfing some of the world’s best waves; the next, you’re trekking through the tropical jungle, hiking up a volcano, or finding yourself in a colonial town that has remained the same for the past century. It’s one of the top destinations for any Central America backpacking trip.
San Salvador is the buzzing capital. While it has a little bit of a gritty rep, a lot of recent development is bringing the city back onto the scene. These days, it’s a hit for foodies and history buffs, with plenty of local markets, museums, and landmarks like the National Palace and Joya de Ceren (El Salvador’s very own Pompeii).
If you’re more interested in a small-town vibe, Suchitoto is a picture-perfect colonial town with colorful streets, art galleries, and views over Lake Suchitlan. It’s famous for its preserved colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, and it has recently been hit with tourists after a sense of Spanish colonial living.
Photo: @amandaadraper
Playa El Tunco and La Libertad are neighboring beach towns along the southern coast of El Salvador. This part of the country is popular for surfing, sunsets, and that low-key beach bar scene. El Tunco is backpacker-friendly and lively, while La Libertad is more of a local surf town with unbeatable seafood.
Santa Ana and Coatepeque Lake are located inland in western El Salvador, in the country’s coffee plantation region. Santa Ana is the adventure capital, where visitors can hike to the peak of the Santa Ana Volcano and take a peek into the bubbling crater before unwinding with a swim in the blue waters of Coatepeque Lake down the road.
Lastly, I recommend Juayua as the best place to visit in El Salvador for foodies. Every weekend, a food festival takes over the streets of this small town, which is surrounded by waterfalls and coffee plantations.
El Salvador’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
This country is teeming with niche spots. To make things a bit easier for you, I’ve picked out my top favorite locations to stay below, with three recommendations for where to stay in each place:
1. San Salvador – Where to Stay in El Salvador for Your First Time
San Salvador is the energetic heart of El Salvador. This city never had the best reputation, but a lot of work and development is putting it back on the map. It’s a modern city with a deep history and a touch of urban chaos. If you’re interested in experiencing local life, visiting museums, and hitting up the market scene for lunch, this is the place to do so.
It’s also a great starting point for day trips to the surrounding volcanoes, coffee plantations, and archaeological sites.
The city is home to a mix of professionals, students, and artists, with a growing expat community. Expect high-rise hotels, boutique stays, and self-catering rentals in safe neighborhoods.
Cinco Hotel B&B | B&B in San Salvador
This little bed and breakfast is nestled in the suburb of Colonia San Benita, surrounded by greenery. The spacious, meticulously decorated rooms, along with the lush gardens, create a peaceful oasis in the heart of the capital city.
The hotel also has an organic grocer on-site, where you can stock up on high-quality local produce.
Traditional 3-Bed Home with Playground | Best House Rental in San Salvador
If you’re traveling with your family, you’re going to want to check out this three-bedroom home in Santa Tecla. It’s got a big garden with a playground, with balconies overlooking the entire city. Technically, it’s a 30-minute drive from the city, but with a family in tow, being removed from the hustle can be a good thing.
The kitchen is my favorite room in this place to stay in El Salvador. It feels very rustic, with authentic terracotta tiling and brick arches.
Rustic A-Frame near El Boqueron National Park | Top Cabin in San Salvador
The main feature of this home is its rustic interiors. It’s one of three cabins surrounded by plenty of hiking trails.
But the main reason people stay here is because it’s just a ten-minute drive into El Boqueron National Park. It’s the perfect place to stay for those looking to really dive deep into the park, but return to a comfortable cabin at the end of each day.
Things to See and Do in San Salvador
- Take a guided tour of Joya de Ceren, a Mayan Village preserved under a layer of volcanic ash
- Hike to the peak of El Boqueron, a massive crater at the San Salvador Volcano
- Admire the rainbow glass windows at the El Rosario Church, arguably Central America’s most beautiful church on a Downtown Walking Tour
- Visit the National Palace to learn more about El Salvador’s history
- Taste Pupusas, a traditional flatbread native to the region
- Slide down the famous rainbow mountain slide
- Explore the city center around the Plaza Libertad and Plaza Barrios
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View on Osprey2. Suchitoto – Best Place to Stay in El Salvador on a Budget
If you’re wondering where to stay in El Salvador without breaking the bank, Suchitoto is one of the country’s most charming small towns. It’s not big, but it is one of the world’s best-preserved Spanish colonial cities. At one point, this area was at the forefront of the Salvadoran Civil War of the 1980s.
Walking through these cobblestone streets feels like taking a step back in time. The town has a thriving art scene, and it is most famous for producing the blue dye color called ‘indigo’. Yup, one of the colors of the rainbow was literally made here. Boutique hotels and B&Bs are the vibe here, and they’re getting more and more attention with the rise of film festivals and art exhibitions hosted in the town.
Hostal Koltin Suchitoto | Budget Hotel in Suchitoto
Hostal Koltin is one of the few hostels in Suchitoto. But it’s a real treat. It feels like a little home away from home, with vibrant interiors (the hand-painted wall details are a highlight) and a lush courtyard that will make you feel relaxed as soon as you arrive at the property.
Conveniently, it’s also just a short walk into the main part of town, making it an excellent choice for solo and budget travelers wanting to be in the heart of Suchitoto.
Casa 1800 Suchitoto | Best Boutique Hotel in Suchitoto
Cassa 1800 is a modern haven in one of the most beautiful historic buildings in Suchitoto. The classic Spanish colonial home has been entirely refurbished. It overlooks Lake Suchitlan, with a spacious terrace creating the perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee or witness a spectacular sunset.
Plus, there is an onsite restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine overlooking the lake.
Los Almendros de San Lorenzo | Beautiful B&B in Suchitoto
Staying here feels more like spending the night in a family home than anything else. It’s set in a restored colonial house over 200 years old, with gardens, fountains, patios, and a swimming pool. It’s warm and comfortable, and each suite is uniquely decorated and opens onto the tranquil courtyard.
It’s right in the center of this El Salvador neighborhood, within walking distance of Central Park.
Things to See and Do in Suchitoto
- Have a refreshing swim in the pools at the Los Tercios Waterfalls
- Join a local workshop to make your own indigo-dyed textiles
- Stroll past the Santa Lucia Church and admire the city views of the Lago de Suchitlan
- Watch local life unfold around Central Square
- Check out the Revolutionary dive bar called El Nicio
- Take a drive to the nearby Museum of Historical Memory of the Civil War for a Salvadoran Civil War tour
- Visit the Art Center for Peace, a cultural, art, and history center
3. Playa El Tunco / La Libertad – Best Area in El Salvador For Surfing
Playa El Tunco is El Salvador’s surf capital. It’s a hotspot for backpackers, digital nomads, and ultimately, anyone chasing the wave of their life. If you want to spend the day catching waves, the evenings watching the sunset from the beach, and the night at a beach bar, you’ll love it here. It’s a small town but has plenty of affordable hotels, eco-villas, and surf and yoga retreats.
Just down the road, La Libertad is a more local village known for its seafood market and bigger surfing waves.
Mirasurf Hotel & Waves | Boutique Hotel in Playa El Tunco / La Libertad
If you’re here for the surf but aren’t sure where to start, Mirasurf is the place to be. It’s a boutique hotel designed for surfers. The minimalist design, on-site restaurant, and tranquil pool area create an inviting atmosphere.
But what sets this place to stay in El Salvador apart is its proximity to the beach and surf lesson offerings.
Casa Esmeralda | Luxury Eco Villa in Playa El Tunco / La Libertad
Casa Esmeralda is the eco-villa you never knew you needed. Perched in the tropical hills overlooking the sea, it beautifully blends luxury with eco-conscious design. The villas’ open-plan spaces, filled with local art and simple furnishings made from natural materials, create the ultimate rustic setting.
All that, and you can rest easy knowing you’ve done your bit for the planet by staying in a low-carbon property.
Balance Surf & Yoga Retreat | Retreat Hotel in Playa El Tunco / La Libertad
There are few better combinations than yoga and surfing. And what better way to improve your surfing skills and work on your yoga practice than in this stunning jungle retreat by the beach? The retreat features detached cabana-style rooms, a refreshing pool, and a dedicated yoga studio.
Things feel so relaxed here, the only thing I can recommend is that you log out of your devices and delete yo’ Instagram to truly disconnect from the outside world.
Things to See and Do in Playa El Tunco / La Libertad
- Take a lesson to learn to surf or improve your skills
- Hike to the Tamanique Waterfalls for a refreshing freshwater swim
- Surf at the famous right-hand point break at Punta Roca
- Join a sunset horseback riding tour along the beach
- Book a boat charter to explore the nearby coastline and secret beaches
- Visit the famous fish market in La Libertad
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Grab an eSIM!4. Santa Ana / Coatepeque Lake – Best Area in El Salvador for Nature Lovers
Consider Santa Ana the country’s adventure hub. This busy little town is surrounded by some of Central America’s most incredible volcanoes, coffee farms, and the famous Coatepeque Lake, making it one of the most naturally striking El Salvador neighborhoods. The main thing to do here is to climb to the edge of the crater at the Santa Ana Volcano. Follow that with a dip in the lake, and you’ve got yourself the perfect adventure day.
There is a mix of budget-friendly rentals and mid-range hotels around here. A short drive away lies the gorgeous Coatepeque Lake, a freshwater lake lined with gorgeous villas and lakefront accommodations.
The Coffee Garden Hostel | Best Hostel in Santa Ana / Coatepeque Lake
The Coffee Garden Hostel is located in central Santa Ana, just a short walk from the city’s main cathedral. It’s set in a beautiful old colonial home with a traditional Spanish courtyard at its heart. The hostel is small—just one eight-bed dorm is available—making it feel personal and homey.
Aside from the gorgeous interiors and friendly staff, a highlight of this place to stay in El Salvador is the delicious free breakfast.
Private Villa On Coatepeque Lake | Lake House in Santa Ana / Coatepeque Lake
If this private villa on the banks of Coatepeque Lake isn’t on your radar, something is not right. It’s got four bedrooms and room for ten guests and is pretty much the perfect house to rent with a group of (responsible) friends.
From the covered terraces and al fresco dining areas to the swimming pool to the private jetty with its own boat, you really can’t do better than this spot.
Stylish Modern Home in City Center | Top Apartment Rental in Santa Ana / Coatepeque Lake
This home in the heart of Santa Ana is about as comfortable as they come. It’s beautifully furnished with elegant modern touches and plenty of natural light. With two bedrooms and space for six guests, it can accommodate the whole family.
Plus, its central location means you’ll be within walking distance of all the cobblestone streets and charming coffee shops you could dream of.
Things to See and Do in Santa Ana / Coatepeque Lake
- Hike to the edge of the crater at Santa Ana Volcano on this epic hiking tour
- Take a boat tour across Coatepeque Lake and swim in the warm water
- Visit the neo-Gothic Santa Ana Cathedral (Catedral de Nuestra Señora Santa Ana)
- Take a guided coffee farm tour and taste local blends
- Visit the neoclassical and Renaissance National Theatre of Santa Ana on a walking tour of Santa Ana
- Explore the nearby ruins of Tazumal, one of El Salvador’s largest archaeological sites
5. Juayua – Best Area in El Salvador for Foodies
Juayua – pronounced ‘whu-yoo-ahh’ – is a food lover’s paradise. It’s best known for hosting a weekly food festival called the Feria Gastronomica, where you can sample delicious street food and traditional dishes.
Beyond the food, it’s another small colonial town with a big history. Plus, it’s pretty much surrounded by hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, and coffee plantations. There are some little cabins, unique eco-friendly rentals, and boutique hotels around here – perfect for solo travelers in Central America or backpackers looking for a slow-paced countryside escape.
Hotel de Cristal & Hacienda de Los Morales | Cabin Hotel in Juayua
If you’re looking for a simple, rustic cabin to stay in this El Salvador neighborhood, Hotel de Cristal might tick all your boxes. I must admit, it feels more like a freestanding rental than a hotel. But once you check in, you’ll realize the property offers all the services of a traditional hotel.
Each suite is a freestanding A-frame unit. They’re air-conditioned and have private bathrooms, and if you have any issues, the staff will gladly go out of their way to help you.
Samay Hostel | Hostel in Juayua
Right in the heart of Juayua, Samay Hostel offers a social atmosphere in a colorful setting. It’s tailored for solo travelers, backpackers, and digital nomads, and it’s one of those spots where you’ll leave with some new friends (or, at least, some extra Instagram followers).
And when you aren’t making friends, you’ll be happy to know that this property is just a few minutes walk from local attractions, bars, restaurants, and the weekly food festival the city is so well known for.
Tiny House Kafen or Domo Kafen | Tiny Home Cabin in Juayua
The same owners manage this tiny house and dome. Tucked away in the coffee trees, surrounded by nothing but greenery, they’re unique properties that will make you feel like you’re the only people in the area.
No doubt the best thing about these two properties is the views. You’ll spot every star in the Milky Way from the comfort of your own little treetop balcony.
Things to See and Do in Juayua
- Visit over the weekend so you can attend the Juayua food festival and taste local specialties
- Join a coffee plantation tour at El Carme Estate and learn about El Salvador’s coffee-making process
- Take a guided waterfall tour to the seven waterfalls around Los Chorros de la Calera
- Hike the Ruta de las Flores and explore the surrounding colorful villages in spring
- Go horseback riding through the surrounding countryside
- Admire the colonial-era Iglesia Santa Lucia church in the center of the town from Juayua Central Park
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in El Salvador
No time to read the entire article but still itching for some answers? Consider this the answer to your ‘too long, didn’t read’ prayer:
What To Pack For El Salvador
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for El Salvador
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to El Salvador.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in El Salvador
If you’ve gotten this far, you’ll understand that El Salvador is a country of diverse natural beauty. Choosing where to stay in El Salvador depends entirely on what type of trip you’re after. If you’re searching for a dose of culture and history, San Salvador will quench your thirst. Suchitoto is a cultural gem of the old Spanish colony, and Juayua is all about waterfalls and good food.
Santa Ana and Coatepeque Lake are outdoor adventure meccas, while Playa El Tunco and La Libertad are best for surfers and a beach vacation.
If I had to choose just two of my favorite places to stay in El Salvador, I would no doubt rate this Tiny House in Juayua and this Villa On Coatepeque Lake.
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Central America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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