Back in 2015: I visited El Salvador before it changed. Back then it was dangerous, now it isn’t. Back then most surf spots were secret, now there’s no secrets. Back then, you had to explore, now you can explore on YouTube. Anyway, I met this kid named Charlie. He drove me around, showed me the locals spots, and ended up being my bodyguard. I think he was only 15 years old.
How dangerous was it back in 2015? Well, the MS-13 gang controlled the country. In 2015, El Salvador had the world’s highest homicide rate, recording over 100 murders per 100,000 people. So basically, I went there by myself at the most dangerous time for that country. Every shop or hostel needed an armed security guard at the entrance. And I still slept with one eye opened.
But once you’re in the ocean, you forget everything. I surfed some of the best waves ever on that surf trip. Imagine surfing the now world famous Punta Roca with nobody out. Yes, it happened then but unfortunately will never happen again.
Then once you’re on land again, it’s back to reality. It was very scary driving around, even with my 15 year old bodyguard.
I always think about Charlie and his hospitality. He guided me and protected me for free. I felt the aloha spirit in him.
I told him I’m coming back. 11 years has since passed, but El Salvador has always been on my mind.
Then I saw a surfing video of last years 2025 WSL contest. OMG, could this be Charlie?
