El Tunco is a small coastal village in the department of La Libertad, on El Salvador's central Pacific coast. It is named for the distinctive rock formation that sits offshore and is often described as resembling a pig, giving the beach its local name. The shoreline consists of dark volcanic sand, rocky outcrops, and strong Pacific surf, while low hills and tropical vegetation surround the village. El Tunco has developed into one of El Salvador's best-known beach communities, with surf schools, hostels, restaurants, cafés, and small shops concentrated near the coast.

El Tunco's identity is strongly connected to surfing and the working coastal communities of La Libertad. Fishing remains part of local life, while tourism has created a network of surf instructors, guides, accommodation providers, restaurants, and other small businesses. The village has an informal, international atmosphere shaped by visitors from different countries, but it remains part of a wider Salvadoran coastal region where seafood, fishing, family businesses, and religious traditions are important. Nearby La Libertad is a major fishing center, and its fish market provides a direct connection to the area's maritime economy.

Surfing is the main activity in El Tunco, with consistent Pacific swells and rocky breaks attracting surfers throughout the year. The beach is also known for its sunsets, tide pools, and coastal rock formations, while nearby beaches such as El Sunzal and El Zonte offer additional surf breaks and walking areas. The coastline is backed by tropical vegetation and small cliffs rather than a broad flat plain. At low tide, sections of the rocky shoreline become accessible on foot. The village's compact layout makes it easy to move between the beach, surf breaks, restaurants, and local businesses.

Seafood is prominent in El Tunco, with fish, shrimp, ceviche, and other Pacific ingredients featured in restaurants along the village streets. Pupusas, fried yuca, plantains, grilled meats, and other Salvadoran staples are also common. The local food scene includes both traditional dishes and international options reflecting the area's role as a surf destination. A distinctive feature of El Tunco is its volcanic coastline, where dark sand and exposed rock contrast with the tropical vegetation. The offshore rock that gives the village its name remains one of its most recognizable landmarks.