Playa El Espino is a long stretch of dark volcanic sand on El Salvador's eastern Pacific coast, about 45 minutes south of Usulutan. It is one of the more relaxed beach destinations in the country, popular with Salvadoran families on weekends but quiet during the week.
Small restaurants line the shore, most serving freshly caught fish, ceviche, and fried plantains. Fishermen land their boats on the beach in the early morning and sell the catch right there. Vendors walk the sand with coconuts, fruit, and souvenirs.
The waves are gentle enough for wading, though the currents can pick up further out. There is no real town here -- just the beach, the comedores, and a few basic hospedajes if you want to stay the night.