Are you ready to visit K59 to surf? Did you know there are actually two surf spots right next to each other?
This blog isn’t necessarily about those two spots; it’s about El Mirador, the viewpoint where you can see both. From this viewpoint, you can easily check both spots, see how the waves are breaking, count the surfers, observe the current, and check the wind direction. This helps you make the right choice on where to surf. Andddd how to navigate to it SAFELY.
Why El Mirador Matters at K59, El Salvador
While this blog isn’t about the two sister surf spots, K59 and K61, understanding El Mirador is crucial. Though these spots are close, they have their unique characteristics. There are days when K59 is perfect for surfing while K61 is calm, ideal for paddleboarding (like a good-for-nothing lake). Conversely, there are times when K59 has too much current, making it unsuitable, while K61 offers great long waves or a working point (yes, there’s a point!).
Even better, sometimes both spots are pumping. It’s common to find 50 people at K59 while K61 is less crowded, like a hot pizza (or pupusa if you’ve tried those, highly recommended), just waiting to be enjoyed before it gets too crowded. The differences between these two spots make El Mirador invaluable for surfers.
If you’ve explored El Salvador on Instagram (follow us @surf.elsalvador), you’ve probably seen photos from this special spot. It’s a great place for surf photography, offering drone-like views without the need for a drone.
Traveling solo or with a Salvadorean surf guide (who isn’t ours), they might not know the spot. You can direct them, and they’ll surely ask if you’ve been there before. It’s a secret nugget.
Driving Tips in El Salvador
If you’ve read our blog about the KM59 Restaurant, the Mirador is right before the restaurant. Keep in mind, when approaching the restaurant or Mirador, it’s just before a curve. Driving in El Salvador can be tricky, so getting to the other side of the road before a curve requires good judgment.
Assuming you’re North bound from El Zonte or El Tunco, if you don’t oncoming traffic, go ahead and cross to the other side sooner rather than later. Yes, I’m suggesting driving on the wrong side of the road briefly if you have a safe opportunity. If there’s oncoming traffic, pull over to your right, wait out the oncoming traffic, and then cross to the other side. But if someone is driving closely behind you, don’t pull over either—tailgating is common in El Salvador. Instead, go past the curve, slow down, let the car behind you pass you and then make a safe U-turn as this is a longer straightaway. Better safe than sorry, and the view from the Mirador is worth it to ensure you make wise surfing choices, especially with limited vacation time.
Photo Time of K59 and K61 El Salvador
Once at the Mirador, take your time, but not too much. Sure, you can get out of your car to enjoy the view, but be mindful that others might want to check it out too. Usually, only one car fits at the actual viewpoint. Most of the time, I just roll up, look from the front seat, make my decision, and go—a drive-thru Mirador. But if you want to stop and snap a cool picture, that’s understandable!
