El Tunco, a small beach town on El Salvador’s Pacific coast, is best known for its laid-back surf scene, black sand beaches, and colorful murals. But beyond the waves and nightlife, El Tunco also offers visitors the chance to pick up authentic, locally made souvenirs that reflect the coastal lifestyle and Salvadoran culture. Whether you’re strolling through beachside markets or chatting with local artisans, there’s no shortage of handmade treasures, tropical treats, and beach-inspired keepsakes.

Here’s a helpful guide to the best souvenirs to bring home from El Tunco — plus where to shop and how to make the most of your coastal shopping experience.

Top 10 Souvenirs from El Tunco

1. Handwoven Hammocks

Colorful hammocks are a classic Salvadoran souvenir — and they’re a perfect fit for El Tunco’s laid-back vibe. Commonly found at roadside stalls or local artisan shops, these hammocks are made from cotton or nylon and come in bright stripes and traditional patterns. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and ideal for turning your backyard into a beachy retreat.

2. Surf-Inspired Clothing

3. Handmade Jewelry

Local artisans craft bracelets, necklaces, and earrings using natural materials like coconut shell, seeds, wood, and volcanic stone. These pieces are typically sold at pop-up beach stalls and craft tables, especially in the late afternoon when the town comes alive. Based on local recommendations, look for pieces made by small collectives that use sustainable materials.

4. Painted Coconut Shell Bowls

Repurposed coconut shells are often turned into decorative bowls, hand-painted with tropical scenes or geometric patterns. These make unique gifts and are commonly found at artisan markets in and around El Tunco.

5. El Salvador Coffee

El Salvador produces some of Central America’s finest coffee, especially from highland regions like Apaneca and Chalatenango. Small bags of locally roasted beans or ground coffee are available at cafés and gift shops. Look for direct trade or single-origin options for the best quality.

6. Indigo-Dyed Textiles

El Salvador has a rich tradition of natural indigo dyeing, and you can find scarves, bags, and clothing in stunning shades of deep blue. These textiles are often made in the western parts of the country but sold in El Tunco’s beach markets and craft stalls.

7. Coconut and Cacao Soap

Natural soaps made with coconut oil, cacao, or honey are popular among travelers looking for lightweight, practical souvenirs. These are commonly sold in local skincare stands or eco-boutiques and often come wrapped in palm or kraft paper packaging.

8. Local Art Prints

Many artists in El Tunco sell small watercolor or ink prints featuring surfboards, sunsets, tuk-tuks, or coastal landscapes. These are easy to transport and offer a colorful reminder of your time at the beach. Some shops even sell postcards or stickers based on original artwork.

9. Pupusa-Themed Souvenirs

Pupusas are El Salvador’s beloved national dish, and you’ll find t-shirts, tote bags, or keychains proudly celebrating them. These playful items are often sold in souvenir stalls around town and are perfect for food lovers.

10. Miniature Surfboards

Mini surfboards — often hand-painted and made from wood — are a fun, beachy souvenir that’s light and easy to pack. You’ll commonly find them in the same stalls that sell jewelry and art, often with the name “El Tunco” or the date painted on.

Where to Shop in El Tunco

• Beachside Market Stalls: Set up daily along the main street and near the beachfront, these stalls offer handmade jewelry, clothing, art, and souvenirs. They’re busiest in the afternoon and evening.
• Local Artisan Shops: A handful of small shops around El Tunco stock higher-quality handmade goods, including hammocks, indigo-dyed textiles, and natural skincare products.
• Weekend Craft Tables: During weekends or holidays, local artists and vendors often set up tables in front of cafés or bars to sell original pieces, especially late in the afternoon or during sunset hours.
• Nearby Towns: For more traditional items like indigo, pottery, or embroidery, consider a day trip to towns like Suchitoto or San Sebastián — many vendors there also bring their goods to the coast.

Shopping Tips for El Tunco

• Bring cash. Most vendors at the markets and craft tables prefer cash (U.S. dollars are widely used in El Salvador). ATMs are available in town but can run out during weekends.
• Support local artisans. Ask where an item was made — vendors are usually happy to tell you the story behind it. Choose handmade over mass-produced where possible.
• Prices are fair, but bargaining is gentle. You can politely ask for a small discount when buying multiple items, but aggressive haggling isn’t typical.
• Pack light and smart. Hammocks and textiles are light and fold easily. Fragile items like painted bowls or soaps should be padded or packed in your carry-on.
• Shop in the late afternoon. The town’s shopping scene gets liveliest after 4 p.m., especially when the surf crowd comes in and the beachside stalls open fully.

Final Thoughts

Shopping in El Tunco is just like the town itself — relaxed, friendly, and full of coastal charm. Whether it’s a handwoven hammock, a surf-themed shirt, or a piece of shell jewelry, each souvenir is a reminder of the waves, sunsets, and slow-paced rhythm of life on El Salvador’s Pacific coast.

By choosing local, handmade items, you’re not just picking up a gift — you’re supporting artisans, families, and the community that makes El Tunco such a special place to visit.