Where Is the Best Surfing in Ecuador?
If you’re looking to surf, you’ll find plenty of beaches along Ecuador’s Pacific coast with excellent waves. The best time to surf in Ecuador is during the wet season, from November to May. On the coast, these months are the warmest and sunniest.
The following Ecuadorian beaches are some of the country's best known surf spots — frequented by tourists and locals alike. If you’re interested, we can help set you up with surfing instructors and surfboard rentals (one less thing you'll need to pack for your trip to Ecuador).
Getting to Ecuador is fairly easy; you'll likely arrive by airplane, but if surfing in Ecuador is one stop of a longer voyage, then you do have options for arriving by land or sea. Entry requirements are fairly basic, and include a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and proof of funds to cover your tip, so it won't be long befor you're riding those waves.
Montañita and Vicinity – Guayas Province
Montañita is Ecuador’s most popular surfing beach, located a little over 100 miles (180 km) northwest of Guayaquil. This beach has hosted several World Masters Surfing Championships. It has what many think of as a typical surfer scene, with a strong bohemian vibe. Surfing and partying are the little beach town’s main attractions, and you’ll find a variety of restaurants and bars in town.
Surfers should take caution — rip tides and big waves are common here. At one section of the beach, known locally as La Punta, experienced surfers can take on waves between 6 to 10 feet (2m – 3m).
There are several beaches nearby Montañita that are also worth checking out.
Las Tunas beach is only 10 minutes away, and usually less crowded than Montañita. This is a better option for beginner level surfers. It’s also a good place to visit when Montañita gets too crowded on the weekends.
14 miles (23 km) north of Montañita, you’ll find Ayampe. This small fishing village is popular with locals, but does not get nearly as crowded as Montañita. Ayampe's beach usually has strong waves, but is still suitable for most experience levels.
Mompiche – Esmereldas Province
Mompiche is a quiet town, and only recently accessible by a decent road. It’s located about an hour’s drive south of the popular beach town of Atacames, in the very southernmost part of the Esmereldas province.
Beaches at Mompiche have black sand and big waves. The beaches here can produce very long waves, up to 985 feet (300 m). Only skilled surfers should tackle the waves, which can be tricky and quite powerful.
Canoa – Manabí
Canoa is a relaxed beach, popular with the locals but not heavily trafficked. Surfers of all levels can catch a wave here.
Canoa is a good destination for a number of sports besides surfing. It’s often windy, and hang-gliding and parasailing have become quite popular. Low cliffs overlook the beach, and create the perfect takeoff spot for hang-gliders.
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno – San Cristóbal Island (The Galápagos)
This beach is located on one of the larger islands of the Galápagos. The surfing here is of the same high caliber as the waves in Hawaii. But the waves are also powerful, and best left to experienced surfers. If you take a cruise to the Galápagos, try to make this gorgeous beach one of your stops.
Related Questions
- What Are the Top Activities in Ecuador?
- Where Are the Nicest Beaches in Ecuador?
- When Is the Best Time to Go to Ecuador?
- Is Ecuador Family Friendly?
- Where Is the Best Fishing in Ecuador?
Ecuador Beaches
Ecuador's beaches are a hidden treasure for travellers who make the time to explore the country's coastline. Despite mellow towns and scenic views, Ecuador's beaches aren't as well known as some of its neighbours — and that's a shame. Or is it? After all, that's less competition for you! The following destinations will provide you with exclusive access to sun, fun, and sand whilst you're in Ecuador. The waves are practically outside of your door when you say at one of Ecuador's beach hotels; let the sound of the waves lull you to sleep every night and greet you every morning in Montañita. All kinds of activities await you! Go fishing in Canoa or snorkelling in Santa Cruz. Nature lovers will enjoy excellent whale-watching every year from June to September — a favourite pastime in Salinas. Take boat trips out to nearby islands, and more. Closer to the mainland of Ecuador's beaches, you'll enjoy some stellar surf spots. Whatever adventures you choose, don't forget one of the best parts of Ecuador's beaches — tasty, fresh seafood.
Ecuador Surfing Beaches
Are you an Ecuador surfing beginner?...Perhaps you're a pro?...The beauty of Ecuador is that it makes no difference. Whether this is your first time riding the waves, or you've been doing it since you were big enough to carry your own board, Ecuador's surfing beaches offer something for every skill level. So, if you're hoping to book a surf getaway, but need to accommodate the entire family or all of your friends, we've got you covered. The nice thing about surfing is that when you're done riding the waves, you can enjoy the atmosphere of Ecuador's surfing towns. Montañita is one of the most popular (and rowdy) surf towns in the country. Mellower hangouts include Canoa, Esmeraldas, and Bahía de Caráquez. Lessons and rentals are easy to come by, so you shouldn't have to search too hard to find an instructor who can teach you to ride waves like the pros, after you've grabbed a board. The following destinations boast some of Ecuador's best surfing. Enjoy!
What Should I Bring To Ecuador?
What you pack will depend somewhat on what you want to do. The following suggestions are just that - suggestions. If you have specific questions about what to bring, just ask one of our travel experts. We'll be happy to provide you with a concrete answer.
When Is the Best Time to Go to Ecuador?
Ecuador is located on the equator, and because of this you'll find temperate climates year-round at most of Ecuador's top destinations.
Getting to Ecuador
The easiest way for most travelers to get to Ecuador is by air. Entering Ecuador is usually quick and easy, especially in airports.
Ecuador Entry Requirements
To enter Ecuador, all travelers need a passport that’s valid for at least six months from the date of entry. You’ll also need to provide proof of onward travel (or a return ticket) and evidence that you have enough money to pay for your trip. These last two requirements aren’t often addressed, but it’s a good idea to have proof of them just in case a border guard stops you.
Pacific Coast
The mesmerizing hues of blue that line Ecuador’s Pacific shoreline attract many travelers from the country’s mountainous regions. The arid coastline offers visitors beautiful beaches, a great diversity of marine life, and fresh seafood.
Galápagos
The Galápagos Islands straddle the equator roughly 600 miles (965 km) off the coast of Ecuador and are home to one of the world’s most unique and pristine ecosystems. This remote, volcanic archipelago is a hallmark of biodiversity—they support a wide variety of endemic marine and terrestrial species seen nowhere else on Earth. And without any natural predators, the wildlife here is not only unintimidated by humans, but it’s usually quite curious about them. While roaming these islands, a wide variety of bird, tortoise and iguana species can be seen. Jump into the crystal blue waters and watch sea lions, turtles, penguins and sharks glide right in front of you. In other words, there’s a reason why the famous naturalist Charles Darwin was so inspired by the Galapagos, and it’s likely that you will be too.
Canoa
A handful of empty beaches and thatched-roof homes make up the sleepy fishing village of Canoa. Travelers searching for a quiet, relaxing beach destination need look no further.
Guayaquil
As the largest city in Ecuador, Guayaquil is the commercial heart of the country. Its crowded streets contain a vast number of impressive hotels, restaurants and plazas.
Mompiche
A whispered destination among surfers, Mompiche’s long stretch of sandy beach and remote location makes for a peaceful getaway along Ecuador’s coast. Besides the waves, it offers visitors the chance to experience a quiet seaside town.
Montañita
As a rowdy backpacker hub, Montañita offers travelers a lively scene alongside white sand beaches and world-renowned surfing.
