Los Cobanos

Los Cobanos sits on a rocky stretch of the Sonsonate coast where a reef system extends offshore, unusual because the Pacific coast of Central America has very little coral, and this is the largest such formation on that side of the isthmus. It is protected as a marine area. Snorkelling and diving work the reef and several shipwrecks nearby, with reef fish, rays and turtles, and humpback whales pass offshore between roughly November and February. The village is a working fishing community with boats drawn up on the beach and seafood served at simple restaurants along the shore. Visibility depends heavily on swell and river run-off.

What you actually see

• The reef - the coral formation offshore, the largest on this coast.
• Wreck dives - the sunken vessels worked by dive operators.
• The fishing village - the boats and beach restaurants.
• Whales - the humpbacks passing offshore in season.

When to go

November to April for the clearest water; the rains bring run-off that cuts visibility sharply. Whale season runs roughly November to February. Mornings are calmest for boats.

Honest expectations

Visibility is often poor and the reef is degraded in places from fishing pressure and sedimentation. Dive operators are few and should be checked. The beach is rocky rather than sandy. Facilities are basic.

Nearby

Acajutla lies west; Barra de Santiago is further along the coast.