El Zonte, El Salvador 🇸🇻
#2088
,
Nomad Score:
65%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | El Zonte is a small beach town located on the Pacific coast of El Salvador, known for its surf spots and laid-back lifestyle. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 2,500 residents, mostly comprising locals and part-time expats. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speeds range from 20 to 50 Mbps, depending on the provider. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Currency is the US Dollar (USD). Most businesses accept cards, but it's advisable to have cash on hand for small vendors. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is supplied at 115V, 60Hz, with standard Type A and B sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Major providers include Tigo and Claro, offering affordable prepaid plans. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | International banks like Citibank operate here; also, digital banking apps like Revolut are accepted. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Accommodations range from beach bungalows to Airbnb rentals, with monthly rates starting around $300. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and stores. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local rental agencies offer a variety of short-term rental options. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Options like Casa Del Mar offer dormitory beds starting at $15 per night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Staying near the beach is recommended for tourists, providing easy access to surf and local restaurants. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Playa El Zonte area provides co-living spaces and closer internet access for digital nomads. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | La Casa Del Surf offers a relaxed workspace with reliable Wi-Fi. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe Zonte provides a cozy atmosphere with free Wi-Fi and a selection of smoothies and coffee. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Monthly meetups at local cafes and co-working spaces to connect with other expats and digital nomads. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Local community gatherings and surf groups on social media platforms. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis and ride services like Uber (available in nearby San Salvador). |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Rental services are available for scooters and bikes, typically around $15 per day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Playa El Zonte is famous for surfing and beach activities, just a short walk. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Avianca operates regional flights to nearby cities and countries. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | American Airlines and United Airlines provide flights from San Salvador to the US. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Easy access to the CA-2 highway connecting you to larger cities like La Libertad. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Public transport is limited; buses are the main form of transit to nearby towns. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No formal public transport passes—pay per ride on local buses. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses run regularly to La Libertad and other coastal towns, costing about $1. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Clinica de El Zonte is the primary healthcare facility with basic medical services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga El Zonte offers classes on the beach with various styles like Vinyasa and Hatha. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Outdoor workouts are popular; minimal gym facilities are available. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Local laundromats offer wash-and-fold services at a few dollars per load. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Rappi and Uber Eats operate in El Zonte providing delivery from local restaurants. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Pupusas, a traditional Salvadoran dish made from maize flour filled with various ingredients. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Mayan Taco offers vegetarian friendly options and fresh juices. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | El Zonte's local bakeshops like Cafe Zonte provide delicious pastries and desserts. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets are available where fresh produce and snacks can be bought at low prices. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Local online stores are limited; Amazon shipping is feasible for larger purchases. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Basic grocery deliveries are available via local grocery stores. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Beach bars along Playa El Zonte, known for casual nightlife and socializing. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Brewery El Salvador produces various craft beers available in local bars. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Wine and artisanal beverages are served at select cafes and restaurants. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street vendors offer a variety of affordable local snacks and drinks. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Diverse offerings including Italian, Mexican, and sushi at various local restaurants. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Playa El Zonte for its beautiful sunsets and surfing culture. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Local art galleries showcase works by Salvadoran artists, promoting cultural appreciation. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Nearby San Salvador offers historical sites like the National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Church of El Zonte located within the town. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Surf competitions and local festivals celebrate community and culture throughout the year. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Artisan markets nearby showcase local handicrafts and artworks. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Occasional performances at outdoor venues or local community centers. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Markets offering handmade crafts and produce support local artisans. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music at various beachfront bars and local events. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Colorful murals can be found throughout the town, showcasing local talent. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Cooking classes are available to learn how to make traditional Salvadoran dishes. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Local art galleries exhibit works from local artists emphasizing Central American culture. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Colonial and historical buildings in nearby towns worth exploring. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Cultural traditions, music, and dance reflect Salvadoran heritage and history. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | El Majahual and Puerto de La Libertad are nearby for nature walks and coastal views. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Cerro Verde National Park is a short drive away, offering scenic hikes. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Beach paths and coastal trails provide scenic views for walking and cycling. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Sunset views from the cliffs at El Zonte are breathtaking. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Coastal areas attract various bird species, ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas at the beach allow bonfires, popular among locals and visitors. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and local courier services available for shipping needs. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops offer basic tech repair services for devices. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Informal games can be found at community centers. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Spanish language classes are offered locally for expats. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Limited libraries; local cafes provide spaces to work and study. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local events and community gatherings often take place at community centers. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited gaming venues, but local cafes may offer video games for leisure. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No significant casinos; local entertainment is focused on beach activities. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,500 per m² (e.g., 50 m² = $75,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per m² (e.g., 50 m² = $60,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $108,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $90,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $160,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,800 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $144,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 30% corporate tax rate. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Dividend tax at 10%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Residents taxed on worldwide income. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 30% personal income tax for high-income earners. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard VAT rate is 13%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No strict CFC rules in place. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax based on property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Transaction tax is approximately 3%. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No significant tax barriers; favorable for foreign income earners. |