Hotel Casa del Golfo (Conchagua, El Salvador) ★★★

Retaxe Surf Camp is located directly on the beach at Hotel Casa del Golfo, nestled between El Maculis reef and Playas Blancas, in the Gulf of Fonseca, La Unión, El Salvador. This remote, tropical setting is surrounded by volcanoes, bays, estuaries, and lush landscapes, offering both tranquility and adventure. The area is safe, uncrowded, and largely unexplored, making it ideal for those seeking an authentic and peaceful surf experience.

We offer access to three diverse surf spots—all within walking distance (max. 500 meters):

Playa Blanca – ideal for beginners, with soft, forgiving waves and safety as a priority.

Waikiki – a versatile beach break perfect for learning and progressing.

Retaxe Break – a more challenging reef break suited for intermediate and advanced surfers.

Surf conditions are excellent year-round, with warm water (26°C–30°C), consistent swell from March to November, and favorable winds in the early mornings. The surf breaks directly in front of the camp, so you can check the waves from your room. Low crowd levels mean more time on the board and a deeper connection with nature.

Retaxe Surf Camp welcomes surfers of all ages and levels, with a primary focus on adults aged 20–45, including solo travelers, couples, and groups. While it's not a party camp, there's a warm, friendly and relaxed atmosphere with plenty of room for connection or quiet reflection.

Camp Size: Medium-sized, with a family-like vibe and personal attention.

Languages Spoken: English and Spanish.

Environment: Relaxation and adventure-focused, not party-heavy.

Child-Friendly: Suitable for families upon request.

Pets: Dogs are not permitted.

Whether you're a first-timer or experienced surfer, our camp is designed to give you a comfortable, immersive, and rejuvenating surf retreat.

Retaxe is the official surf brand of Hotel Casa del Golfo, an oceanfront boutique hotel that began operations in 2020. The surf camp itself launched in 2024, born from the hotel’s vision of offering unique surf experiences in a little-known but wave-rich region of El Salvador.

Our dedicated team is led by local and international surf instructors, hospitality professionals, and passionate adventurers who believe in creating authentic and enriching experiences. From airport pickup to sunset surf sessions, the Casa del Golfo team ensures every detail is covered, so you can focus on the waves, the nature, and the joy of surfing.

We're currently based at Hotel Casa del Golfo but are developing a dedicated Retaxe surf facility for the near future (projected for 2027).

Retaxe Surf Camp operates from Hotel Casa del Golfo, a beachfront boutique hotel offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding nature. Located between El Maculis reef and Playas Blancas, our accommodations are immersed in a tropical landscape, with direct access to surf spots.

We offer five types of private, stylish rooms, all equipped for comfort:

Deluxe Single Room: 1 Queen bed, A/C, private bathroom, coffee station, garden view.

Deluxe Double Room: 2 Queen beds, A/C, private bathroom, closet, pool view, mini terrace.

Suite King Room: 1 King bed, A/C, private bathroom, private terrace with panoramic sea or garden views.

Luxury Suite: 1 King bed, jacuzzi, private lounge area, beachfront view, walk-in closet.

Family Suite: King bed + bunk bed, ideal for families or groups, sea view, large lounge area.

Extras & Amenities:

Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and coffee station in all rooms

Private bathrooms with full amenities (shampoo, towels, etc.)

Two swimming pools, on-site restaurant & bar, and beachfront relaxation zones

Free parking

Surfboard storage area

Bed linen and towels provided

Hair dryer available on request

No TV in rooms – we focus on disconnecting

No electrical adapter needed for most visitors (standard North American plug type)

Safe and secure environment for personal belongings

Non-smoking rooms smoking permitted only in designated outdoor areas

Retaxe Surf Camp offers breakfast included in every package. You can upgrade to half board or full board with delicious, locally inspired meals.

On-site restaurant with beach view serving fresh seafood, traditional Salvadoran cuisine, and international dishes.

Meals are freshly prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

Special dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies) can be accommodated with advance notice.

Pre-surf breakfasts are available to fuel your sessions.

Snacks, drinks, and a full menu available all day.

Self-catering is not available, but food options are flexible.

Nearby Options:

A few local eateries and small shops are accessible within a short drive.

Grocery options in La Unión (15–20 min away) for snacks or essentials.

Price level: affordable local food and mid-range dining at the hotel.

Our surf program is run by Retaxe Surf Camp, based at Hotel Casa del Golfo, and led by certified, experienced local surf instructors who know the area intimately.

Organization: Daily structured surf sessions, personalized coaching, and flexible scheduling depending on tide and swell.

Group Size & Ratio: Max 4 students per instructor for hands-on guidance and personal attention.

Course Schedule:

Morning session (2 hrs) + optional video analysis or free surf in the afternoon

Total duration per course: Options for 3-day, 5-day, or 7-day packages

Program Includes:

Ocean safety + theory

Dryland training

Surf etiquette

In-water coaching tailored to your skill level

Location: Primarily at El Maculis, our home break directly in front of the hotel. Other nearby breaks like Playas Blancas and Las Flores used depending on swell and level.

Levels & Goals:

Beginner: Learn the basics, stand up, paddle technique, safety

Intermediate: Improve positioning, turning, reading waves

Advanced: Coaching on reef breaks, maneuvers, surf progression

Breaks: We schedule breaks between sessions; lunch and refreshments available at the hotel restaurant.

Course Language: English and Spanish

Without Accommodation? Yes, you can join the surf course only (subject to availability)

All materials are high-quality and included in the surf course:

Boards Provided:

Soft-top boards for beginners

Epoxy and fiberglass boards for intermediate/advanced surfers

Also Included:

Rash guards

Leashes

Wax and sunscreen

What to Bring: Swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle

Use of Materials Outside Course: Yes! Free use for students outside lesson hours for self-practice

Rental (for non-students or extended use):

Surfboard rental: $15/day or $10/half day

Long-term rental discounts available

Retaxe Surf Camp is more than just surf – we offer a wide range of activities to enrich your stay:

Yoga Classes:

Daily oceanfront yoga (Vinyasa + Yin styles)

$10 per class or included in full surf & yoga packages

Massage Therapy:

On-site massages available by appointment — $25/hour

Excursions:

Boat tour to the Gulf of Fonseca Islands — $20/person

Waterfall hike + swimming (transport & guide) — $15/person

Local village culture tour — $10/person

Beach Bonfire Nights: Free social nights with music and local snacks

Surfboard Rentals (for non-course guests):

$15/day

$60/week

Variety of shapes and sizes available

Other Rentals:

Snorkeling gear: $5/day

Paddleboards: $10/hour