In 2019, a grassroots cryptocurrency project launched in El Salvador with an ambitious goal: to create the world’s first functional Bitcoin-based local economy. This initiative not only inspired national policy but also attracted worldwide attention and transformed the lives of many young residents. Today, the tranquil surf town of El Zonte—often referred to as "Bitcoin Beach"—invites travelers to witness and participate in this ongoing economic experiment.
Discovering Bitcoin Beach
Tucked away off a narrow coastal road, El Zonte is easy to overlook. A single sign points toward la playa, where the beach often sits nearly empty under the afternoon sun. It’s a place of natural beauty—warm waters, powerful waves, and a relaxed atmosphere. Yet this unassuming fishing village has become a landmark in the world of digital currency.
What makes El Zonte special isn’t just its surf-friendly shores. It’s one of the few places on Earth where cryptocurrency isn’t just a concept—it’s a daily reality. Visitors can truly experience a functioning Bitcoin economy, whether booking a hotel, buying local food, or simply enjoying a cold drink by the ocean.
How It All Started
The Bitcoin Beach project began through the efforts of local economist Mike Peterson and community leader Roman Martínez. Initially, Peterson worked with an NGO to provide youth with alternatives to gang-related activities. When an anonymous Bitcoin donation was received, the idea emerged to build a circular economy centered around the cryptocurrency.
Young people were paid in Bitcoin for community service, like cleaning beaches and rivers. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck and traditional jobs vanished, the project expanded to support more residents. El Salvador’s adoption of the US dollar in 2001 made the country uniquely suited for such an experiment, as Bitcoin didn’t have to compete with a national currency.
Moreover, with a large unbanked population, the introduction of a digital payment system offered many their first experience with electronic transactions.
A Life-Changing Initiative
Brian Flores, now 23, was one of the local teenagers who joined the project early on. Today, he educates others—especially youth—on using Bitcoin.
"Bitcoin Beach changed my life," he says. "Many friends I grew up with are no longer free. My family used to work on farms. When Bitcoin arrived, I got involved and discovered new possibilities."
Thanks to the project, Brian has traveled internationally as a Bitcoin educator, visiting countries like Argentina and Spain. For newcomers, he explains, getting started is simple: download a digital wallet, load it with Bitcoin, and you’re ready to spend.
From Local Project to National Policy
The success in El Zonte captured the attention of Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele. In 2021, he made Bitcoin legal tender nationwide—a world first. This meant the cryptocurrency could be used to pay for everything from taxes and utility bills to groceries and travel services.
Although the federal government reversed this policy in early 2025 due to pressure from international financial institutions, Bitcoin remains deeply embedded in El Zonte. The town continues to function as a testing ground for digital currency adoption, and its model has inspired similar projects around the world.
What Visitors Can Expect
Walking through El Zonte, you’ll see Bitcoin logos everywhere—on shop windows, restaurant entrances, and street signage. Many local businesses readily accept Bitcoin, making it easy for travelers to make everyday purchases.
At beachfront restaurants like Nan Tal, staff frequently process Bitcoin transactions, especially during tourist season. Whether you’re buying crispy calamari or a refreshing drink, paying with Bitcoin is often as simple as scanning a QR code.
Surfers and tourists visiting El Zonte come for different reasons. Some are drawn by the waves, others by the tech-driven culture. Regardless, the option to pay with Bitcoin adds a layer of convenience and novelty.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: The most convenient way to reach El Zonte is by car from San Salvador Airport, which takes about 75 minutes. Buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services are also available. Some surf schools and hotels offer shuttle services—contact them in advance.
Where to Stay: A range of accommodations is available, from budget stays to premium beachfront rentals. Beach on the Rocks is one popular option, with rooms starting around $65 per night.
What to Do: Take a surf lesson with local schools like Puro Surf or Escuela de Surf Los 3 Hermanos. Explore nearby attractions such as the Ruta de Las Flores or El Boquerón volcano. For nightlife, the town of El Tunco is just a short ride away.
Using Bitcoin: To make payments, download a Bitcoin wallet app. If you don’t already own Bitcoin, you’ll need to purchase some and transfer it to your wallet. While most businesses in El Zonte accept Bitcoin, it’s always a good idea to confirm before ordering.
👉 Explore digital payment solutions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bitcoin Beach?
Bitcoin Beach is a community in El Zonte, El Salvador, where Bitcoin is integrated into the local economy. It started as a grassroots project and now serves as a real-world example of cryptocurrency adoption.
Can I use Bitcoin everywhere in El Zonte?
Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in El Zonte accept Bitcoin. It’s wise to confirm with staff beforehand, but digital payments are widely supported.
Do I need to use a specific Bitcoin wallet?
No, you can use any digital wallet that supports Bitcoin transactions. Simply load Bitcoin into your wallet, and you can start making purchases.
Is El Zonte safe for tourists?
Yes. El Salvador has seen significant improvements in safety in recent years, and El Zonte is generally considered secure for visitors.
Why did El Salvador reverse its Bitcoin law?
The national government withdrew Bitcoin’s status as legal tender in early 2025 following guidance from the International Monetary Fund. However, usage remains common in places like El Zonte.
Has Bitcoin Beach influenced other projects?
Yes. The initiative has inspired nearly 100 similar projects worldwide and continues to promote financial inclusion through technology.
The Bigger Picture
Bitcoin Beach is more than a local curiosity—it’s part of El Salvador’s broader effort to redefine itself on the global stage. Increased safety, growing tourism, and technological innovation are drawing international attention.
Between early 2019 and early 2024, El Salvador experienced a 90% rise in international tourist arrivals. While the government’s strict anti-gang policies have received criticism from human rights organizations, many agree that safety has improved significantly.
In El Zonte, Bitcoin represents more than a currency—it’s a tool for empowerment, education, and connection. As the sun sets over the Pacific, it’s not uncommon to see visitors and locals alike sharing stories and making transactions with a simple scan of a phone—a quiet but powerful symbol of progress.