
In a significant stride toward boosting its tourism and enhancing economic growth, El Salvador has unveiled a new tourist pier at Puerto de La Libertad. This project, a collaborative effort between El Salvador and the People’s Republic of China, was inaugurated on November 20, 2024, positioning the country as an emerging destination for international visitors.
Situated a stone’s throw from the existing fishermen’s pier, the new tourist dock introduces a blend of leisure and functional space designed to attract visitors to the sun-soaked coasts of El Salvador. Among its features are a restaurant, Legends at the Pier, and a beverage kiosk that promise a unique dining experience combining Californian and Hawaiian culinary styles with Salvadoran ingredients.
Carlos Olivares, General Manager of Legends at The Pier, highlighted the restaurant’s appeal, stating, “We aim to surprise Salvadorans and visitors alike with our seafood fusion, bringing a Hawaiian taste to local produce. Dishes like exotic sandwiches made from peliguey or baked fish wrapped in banana leaves are sure to impress.”
The pier’s launch was overseen by key figures including Morena Valdez, Minister of Tourism of El Salvador, and Zhang Yanhui, the Ambassador of the Republic of China to El Salvador. They underscored the dual aims of the project: to enhance local quality of life and to draw tourists to the Central American nation.

Reflecting on the infrastructure’s broader impact, Ambassador Zhang remarked, “This new project is a winter holiday gift to all Salvadorans and a reflection of the strong bilateral relations and friendship between our two countries.“ His speech also nodded to future collaborations, hinting at plans for a new International Convention Center without divulging further details.
Located in a dynamic area, the new pier integrates seamlessly with neighboring attractions like the Mercado del Mar, Gastronomic Plaza, and Sunset Park, collectively creating a vibrant hub for visitors and residents alike. The pier itself stretches an impressive 200 meters, providing ample space for guests to stroll, take photos, and relish the coastal vistas.
Tourism officials have adapted the pier’s hours to cater extensively to visitors, opening from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and extending hours on weekends.
This initiative falls under President Nayib Bukele’s Surf City strategy, aimed at promoting El Salvador as a safe, attractive destination for surfing and other tourist activities. The strategy has already boosted the local tourism sector, with La Libertad Costa witnessing a 17% increase in tourism businesses, contributing significantly to job creation and economic activity in the region.
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With these developments, El Salvador demonstrates significant advancements in infrastructure and tourism, emphasizing its readiness to receive more tourists and enhance local commerce.