La Libertad

Part of this strip belongs to the Costa del Bálsamo, named after the tree from which an aromatic resin is extracted for use in medicine and perfumery. Its use by indigenous communities predates colonial trade, when Salvadoran products reached foreign markets. In the 19th century, the Port of La Libertad became a maritime outlet for the country's commerce; its establishment in 1824 corresponds to the port, not to the founding of the entire region. Fishing and commercial exchanges marked the development of coastal populations. During the 20th century, the beaches also began to attract surfers and national visitors. With the growth of accommodations and tourist services, towns like El Tunco and El Zonte gained greater recognition. In 2021, La Bocana and El Sunzal hosted a world championship that awarded the final surfing spots for the Tokyo Olympic Games.