The Hidden Treasure of Jiquilisco Bay, El Salvador

Exquisite Tropical Marina Respit

In short this is one of the best marinas in terms of amenities, ambience and price that we’ve seen in all of Central America!

Nestled deep in the tropical estuary, Marina Barillas provided a sanctuary for our sailboat of weary cruisers. The amenities from the boat side panga taxi to shore to the sparkling azure pools (of which there were three to choose from) were an unexpected treat. We opted to spend nearly a week working on our boat in the tranquil water while treating ourselves to mango smoothies and cooling soaks in the pools. For the less sedentary there’s plenty to fill your days as well. We delighted in visiting the spider monkeys, soaking in the natural pools in the sand bar island and were amazed at the phenomenal work of the endangered hawksbill turtle sanctuary. These ingenious conservationists pay local fisherman to locate turtle nests. By purchasing the turtle eggs for conservation they’re helping the endangered hawksbill while compensating the fisherman so they continue their livelihood. Instead of selling the eggs to the market they sell them to consecration!
Highly recommended destination for any boat in El Salvador.

Awesome adventure in your own paradise

The hotel is located in Usulutan ,where the surroundings are well managed. The lodge itself is big enough for a family of 4-6 people, complete with kitchen facilities. I felt like I was at home in a paradise like setting. There were many activities to do so plan to stay at least 2 or more nights. You can feel that the staff are happy because they make you feel happy. Elena, ( manager) was very warm and welcoming. Staying in Puerto Barillas Marina and lodge is a good base to explore the Jiquilisco Bay. I had a memorable experience of participating in releasing the baby sea turtles back into the ocean and later had the chance to see how an adult turtle is captured by biologists and witnessed how their conservation studies are conducted. When you are there, take the monkey tour. You will walk through a forest until you reach their home. When you call their names, they come down the tress and interact with you ( be sure to bring lots of bananas/plantains). If you stay longer, you can also take the Cacao tour and Banana plantation tour. It is an excellent hotel with so much awesome experiences and adventures to bring home. Would love to go back again — this time longer.

All this beauty in one place…

I can’t believe I was in Puerto Barillas…nine months ago at TMLA you were telling me about the amazing place and activities and now I have been here. The landscape is awesome and although we were forced to a short stay, we managed to enjoy so much!! So thank you very much! My kid loved the turtles and the monkeys and the pool as well!! I loved everything, seeing him so happy and looking around in awe for all this beauty in one place, altogether!

(más…)