7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Santa Tecla

Santa Tecla, is a vibrant city that offers digital nomads a unique blend of urban convenience and access to natural beauty. While the city itself has much to offer, the weekends are a perfect time for nomads to explore the surrounding areas. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's something for every type of traveler. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that are just a short trip from Santa Tecla.

El Tunco Beach

El Tunco Beach is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, known for its excellent surf conditions and laid-back atmosphere. The small beach town is bustling with surf shops, cozy cafes, and vibrant nightlife. During the day, you can take surf lessons or simply relax on the black sand beach. As the sun sets, the beach becomes a prime spot for socializing and enjoying the local cuisine at one of the many beachfront restaurants.

How to Get There: El Tunco is about a 30-minute drive from Santa Tecla. The most convenient way to get there is by car or by taking a local bus that runs regularly between the two locations.

Travel Tip: Make sure to stay for the sunset, as El Tunco offers some of the most stunning sunset views along the Pacific Coast.

Where to Stay: La Sombra Hostel is a favorite for its friendly atmosphere and proximity to the beach. For a more upscale experience, check out Casa de Mar, which offers an infinity pool with ocean views.

Where to Eat: Café Sunzal offers a variety of international dishes and is famous for its fresh seafood and oceanfront dining experience.

Suchitoto

Suchitoto is a charming colonial town that seems frozen in time, with its cobblestone streets and colorful houses. It's a cultural hub with art galleries, local craft markets, and a rich history. Visitors can explore the beautiful Santa Lucía Church, take a boat tour on Lake Suchitlán, or simply enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the town square.

How to Get There: Suchitoto is approximately an hour's drive from Santa Tecla. Buses also run between San Salvador and Suchitoto, making it an accessible day trip.

Travel Tip: Visit the Casa de la Abuela for a chance to participate in indigo dye workshops and learn about this ancient art form.

Where to Stay: El Tejado is a well-regarded hotel with a pool and stunning views of the lake. Los Almendros de San Lorenzo is another excellent choice, offering a boutique experience in a historic setting.

Where to Eat: La Lupita del Portal gives you a taste of traditional Salvadoran cuisine with a view of the central plaza.

Los Chorros Waterfalls

For a refreshing escape from the heat, Los Chorros Waterfalls is a series of natural pools and cascades nestled in a lush forest. It's a less frequented spot, perfect for a peaceful day of swimming and picnicking. The clear, cool waters are surrounded by tropical vegetation, making it a picturesque retreat for nature lovers.

How to Get There: Located just 30 minutes from Santa Tecla by car, Los Chorros is an easy getaway. Public transportation is also available, with buses heading towards La Libertad passing nearby.

Travel Tip: Bring water shoes to navigate the rocky areas comfortably and safely.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited near Los Chorros, so most visitors choose to stay in Santa Tecla or nearby La Libertad.

Where to Eat: Pack a picnic to enjoy the natural surroundings, or stop by a local pupuseria on your way back to the city.

La Laguna Botanical Garden

La Laguna Botanical Garden is a hidden oasis located within an extinct volcanic crater. This unusual destination offers a tranquil environment to enjoy a diverse collection of plant species. The garden features various thematic areas, including an orchid house, medicinal plants, and a Japanese garden. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, bird watching, or simply unwinding amidst nature.

How to Get There: The botanical garden is about a 20-minute drive from Santa Tecla. Public buses that go towards Planes de Renderos can drop you off nearby.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the crater and the city of San Salvador.

Where to Stay: Most visitors choose to stay in Santa Tecla or San Salvador due to the close proximity of the garden.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at the garden's café, which serves light snacks and refreshments in a serene setting.

El Boquerón National Park

El Boquerón National Park is located on the San Salvador Volcano, just a short drive from Santa Tecla. The park's main attraction is the impressive volcanic crater, which offers breathtaking views and a cool climate. Hiking trails lead through the cloud forest to various viewpoints, and the visitor center provides educational exhibits about the volcano's history and geology.

How to Get There: The park is about a 40-minute drive from Santa Tecla. Public transportation is available, but a car will provide more flexibility for exploring the park.

Travel Tip: Wear layers, as the temperature can be significantly cooler at the higher elevation of the park.

Where to Stay: There are several eco-lodges and mountain hotels in the area, such as the Eco Hotel El Salvador, which offers a rustic experience.

Where to Eat: Try the local restaurants near the park entrance for traditional Salvadoran dishes like pupusas and tamales.

Playa El Zonte

Playa El Zonte is a lesser-known beach destination favored by surfers and travelers seeking a more authentic Salvadoran beach experience. The laid-back atmosphere, rocky coastline, and consistent waves make it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the more crowded beaches. Besides surfing, visitors can enjoy yoga classes, beachfront massages, or simply relax in a hammock by the sea.

How to Get There: It's about a 45-minute drive from Santa Tecla to Playa El Zonte. Buses are also available, but a car rental would be more convenient for carrying surfboards and beach gear.

Travel Tip: Check out the local surf schools if you're interested in learning to surf or improving your skills.

Where to Stay: Esencia Nativa is a popular hostel and surf camp with a friendly vibe. For more privacy, consider the oceanfront bungalows at Horizonte Cabins.

Where to Eat: The local beachfront eateries offer fresh seafood and traditional dishes. Don't miss the chance to try a coconut water straight from the shell.

Finca El Carmen

Finca El Carmen is an off-the-beaten-path coffee plantation in the mountains near Ataco. Visitors can take a tour of the plantation to learn about the coffee production process from bean to cup. The finca also offers hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It's a perfect getaway for those interested in agritourism and the chance to enjoy some of the freshest coffee around.

How to Get There: The drive to Finca El Carmen from Santa Tecla takes about 2 hours. While public transportation is available, a car rental is recommended for flexibility and convenience.

Travel Tip: Be sure to purchase some of the plantation's coffee to take home as a delicious souvenir.

Where to Stay: Accommodations in Ataco or Apaneca offer a range of options, from cozy guesthouses to luxury hotels like the Hotel Misión de Ángeles.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at the finca's own café, where you can taste dishes made with fresh, local ingredients and, of course, their excellent coffee.