Surf City 1 has marked a turning point in the development of El Salvador’s coastal zone, evolving into a major hub for public and private investment. Since President Nayib Bukele took office, strategic infrastructure and development projects have reshaped the area, attracting international visitors and sparking strong interest from new investors.
According to Surf City Director Alejo Campos, the first phase of the project has significantly changed the profile of the region, positioning it as an increasingly attractive destination for high-impact initiatives. Despite the progress already achieved, authorities are aiming to bring in even more large-scale projects focused on sports, tourism, and services.
Among the most notable developments is the construction of a high-performance sports training center in Punta Roca, La Libertad, designed to attract elite athletes from around the world. Plans also include an international hotel, commercial areas, and medical services to support the growing flow of visitors. “What we are proposing is for the high-performance center to be inaugurated by the end of 2027 or early 2028. And there is still much more coming for Surf City 1,” Campos told Diario El Salvador.
Future plans also envision larger shopping centers, expanded service areas, and a dedicated events and convention center, along with hotels capable of hosting conferences for 300 to 400 people. “We are already thinking about larger shopping centers, service areas, an events and convention center that does not currently exist, as well as hotels with convention halls,” Campos added.
Improved connectivity is another key pillar of the expansion. In addition to its direct link to El Salvador’s International Airport, authorities are studying the feasibility of a small domestic airport to ease access, while construction of phase two of the Surf City highway toward El Zonte is set to begin this year, a project expected to dramatically improve mobility. Beyond infrastructure, Campos emphasized that Surf City 1 has become a source of local employment, reducing the need for residents to commute to San Salvador and supporting a more decentralized model of economic growth.