13 eco-friendly hotels in Ecuador for surfers
Planning a sustainable surf trip in South America? Discover 13 eco-friendly hotels in Ecuador, all of which are just a stone’s throw from surf breaks.
While it only has a short coastline compared to its neighbours, Colombia and Peru, Ecuador boasts some of the best surf in South America.
Its welcoming community of surfers has fuelled a surge in the popularity of the sport and led to a flourishing infrastructure to support the increasing number of travelling wave riders.
Thankfully, many of the properties springing up along the coast of Ecuador are doing so with sustainability in mind. They’re drawing on locally sourced materials and renewable energies to minimise their environmental impact.
To help preserve the incredible beaches and forests that fringe the coast, they are also taking steps to reduce waste and limit resource consumption in their everyday practices.
In this article, we’ll introduce 13 eco-friendly hotels in Ecuador for surfers, all of which are just a stone’s throw from the breaks. In addition to budget-friendly hostels and family-focused ecolodges, we’ve also included luxury options for those seeking a high-end stay.
To learn more about surfing in South America, check out 7 of the best surf spots in Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands.
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Hotel Kundalini
Best eco-friendly hotel in Montañita
Boasting an absolute beachfront setting, this eco-friendly hotel in Montañita is a perennial favourite amongst surfers. It’s just five minutes on foot from La Punta.
Hotel Kundalini is also within walking distance of restaurants and bars while being far enough from town that it’s not noisy. If you don’t want to venture out in the evening, you can dine with your feet sunk into the sand out front.
Each of the 27 rooms and suites at Hotel Kundalini is inspired by Feng Shui, combining earthy colours and natural materials that have been sourced locally.
This eco-friendly Montañita hotel has made a commitment to sustainable practices, from reducing its water usage to using biodegradable cleaning products and irrigating its gardens using grey water.
“Heavenly!” – Natalia (read more reviews here)
Nativa Bambu Ecolodge
Best ecolodge in Montañita
Offering stunning views of the beach from its hillside setting, this Montañita ecolodge is perfect for those looking to escape the party scene on the beach.
It features a collection of rustic rooms, suites and bungalows. All have been designed with sustainability in mind and to accommodate pets.
When you’re not out surfing, you can enjoy a dip in the infinity pool or refuel in the outdoor dining space.
Each day begins with your choice of a la carte breakfast, including gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options.
As a family-friendly Montañita resort, there’s also a playground for kids.
“Feels like family.” – Lewis (read more reviews here)
Hostería Ecológica El Faro
Best ecolodge in Salinas for surfers
Set in a garden teeming with native wildlife is this Salinas ecolodge. It offers a range of doubles, triples and quadruples, making it perfect for small groups of surfers.
Complimentary breakfasts are served each morning on the open-air terrace, often accommpanied by the appearance of turtles, parrots and monkeys.
Hostería Ecológica El Faro receives rave reviews for its tranquility. It really is a wonderful spot to disconnect with your loved ones.
Best of all, it boasts incredible views across the Pacific Ocean and is within easy reach of all the best surf breaks in Salinas.
“It is like staying in a zoo with animals freely walking around the property, a true ecological oasis.” – Tom (read more reviews here)
Seaside Garden Ecolodge
Best ecolodge in Mompiche for surfers
Overlooking a dreamy stretch of sand, this Mompiche ecolodge has earned high praise for its laid-back atmosphere and the friendliness of its hosts.
It’s located just 20 minutes’ walk from the town centre and within easy access to the surf breaks. Mangroves fringe the property and flood on high tide, creating an island-like setting.
All of the rooms at the Seaside Garden Ecolodge are ocean facing and have been designed to take advantage of natural cross-ventilation.
You can dine on Ecuadorian fusion cuisine at the onsite restaurant, with affordable all-inclusive meal packages available.
As a sustainable Mompiche hotel, there is no air-conditioning, swimming pool or TVs – it’s just you and the waves!
“Simply phenomenal.” – Willemijn (read more reviews here)
The Mudhouse Hostel
Best eco-friendly hostel in Mompiche
Tucked away in a tropical garden just three minutes’ walk from the beach is this eco-friendly Mompiche hotel. It features a handful of bamboo bungalows and dorms.
They have all been designed with high-ceilings to allow for cross-ventilation and with outdoor showers. Who doesn’t love bathing under the stars!
In addition to a shared kitchen where you can prepare your own meals, there’s fast Wi-Fi and lots of communal areas where you can socialise with other guests.
Stretch it out after your surf session on the Mudhouse Hostel’s yoga deck or enjoy an afternoon siesta in one of the many hammocks strung through the property.
“The best place to stay in Mompiche!” – Leticia (read more reviews here)
La Casa Mompiche
Best eco-friendly hotel in Mompiche
With everything from couple-friendly doubles to family suites and four-bed dorms, this eco-friendly Mompiche hotel caters to a wide variety of travellers.
All of its bungalows have been constructed from locally sourced materials. There’s even a campground where you can throw down your tent (or rent one from La Casa Mompiche).
Aside from composting food waste and implementing a grey water system, this sustainably run Mompiche hotel has a close relationship with the local community to support social projects.
It operates a small cafe where you can grab breakfast (included in the rates), as well as snacks and drinks in the evenings.
“Perfect relaxation spot by the beach.” – Imogen (read more reviews here)
Ganso & Búho
Best eco-friendly hostel in Ayampe
Translating as the “Goose & Owl” is this eco-friendly Ayampe hostel. It’s constructed from natural materials, with exposed wooden ceilings in many of the rooms.
Ganso & Búho is located just steps from the beach and within easy reach of the town’s surf breaks. Board rentals and surf lessons are also available at the property.
While the onsite cafe serves hearty breakfasts, there are several restaurants within a few minutes’ walk where you can dine throughout the day.
Previous guests comment on the genuine friendliness of the host and the overall tranquility of the property.
“A small paradise!” – Chloe (read more reviews here)
Cabañas Cochapunko
Best three-bedroom rental in Ayampe for surfers
Around 20 minutes’ walk from the surf in Ayampe is this three-bedroom holiday rental, which boasts a magnificent setting between the mountains and the sea.
It’s the perfect choice for groups of surf buddies or families who want an exclusive base within easy reach of the coastline.
The floor-to-ceiling windows and use of natural materials elevate the space. Meanwhile, the fully-equipped kitchen means you can be completely self-sufficient.
The views from the rooms and the sun terrace are simply divine. It really doesn’t get better than this!
“Watching the sunset is from another world!” – Patricio (read more reviews here)
Eolia Sustainable Design Hotel
Best sustainable hotel in San Mateo for kite surfers
Located in Santa Marianita, this sustainably designed Ecuadorian hotel is surrounded by some of the best kite and windsurfing in the country.
All of the rooms have been expertly designed with high-end furnishings. There are options for couples, surf buddies and families (there are also a handful of glamping tents).
Locally sourced wood and tropical plants decorate the communal spaces. Meanwhile, the restaurant sources much of its produce from the surrounding area.
Not only is there a stunning infinity pool to cool off in but a rooftop terrace complete with loungers where you can check the surf conditions each morning.
“Stunning property with a high-end, sophisticated vibe.” – Robert (read more reviews here)
Pacoche Lodge
Best eco-lodge in San Mateo for surfers
Surrounded by one of Ecuador’s last-remaining semi-dry tropical forests, this eco-friendly San Mateo lodge forms part of the Pacoche Wildlife Refuge.
The area is home to more than 250 recorded bird species and howler monkeys, all of which can be spotted from the property’s spacious deck.
Each of the property’s cabins comes with a double bed and a bunk, making the Pacoche Lodge an ideal choice for surfing families.
Meals featuring locally caught seafood are served at the onsite restaurant. Guided excursions are also available to spot some of the species that inhabit the surrounding tropical forest.
“Great wilderness experience with the comforts of home.” – Joanne (read more reviews here)
Hostal Rutamar
Best eco-friendly hotel in Canoa for surfers
With a great choice of doubles, triples, quadruples and dorms, this eco-friendly Canoa hostel caters to a wide range of surfers.
Each comes with an ensuite bathroom and fans to keep things cool (no energy-intensive aircon here!). Plus, there are mosquito nets and either balconies or terraces.
Aside from being sustainably designed, Hostal Rutamar has taken steps to reduce its environmental impact. It’s also pet-friendly for those travelling with four-legged friends.
There’s a shared kitchen for self-catering and hammocks where you can relax with a book. Surfboard rentals are also available at this eco-friendly hotel in Ecuador.
“Beautiful hostal, warm welcome, very helpful staff.” – Michaela (read more reviews here)
Blu Galapagos Sustainable Waterfront Lodge
Best ecolodge in Galapagos Islands for surfers
Overlooking the water in Puerto Ayora, this luxury Galapagos ecolodge is an ideal base for surfing Tortuga Bay on the island of Santa Cruz.
All of the rooms and suites are beautifully decorated using natural materials. Some also boast ocean views and private balconies.
Sustainability is a guiding principle at this eco-friendly Galapagos hotel. There’s a focus on energy efficiency, water conservation and waste reduction.
Meals are served on the breezy terrace and there are several cosy lounges where you can retreat with a book.
All-inclusive packages including tours around the Galapagos Islands are available on request at this eco-friendly hotel in Ecuador.
“Everything was over the top perfection.” – Cynthia (read more reviews here)
For more information about surfing in the Galapagos Islands, check out our detailed article here.
Cucuve Eco Hostal
Best eco-friendly hostel in the Galapagos Islands
Located in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is this eco-friendly Galapagos hostel. It’s ideal for those travelling on a budget who want to keep their environmental footprint to a minimum.
Cucuve Eco Hostal is just 20 minutes walk from the town centre (although lifts are often provided) and is surrounded by fruit trees and hammocks for relaxing in.
In addition to single and double rooms, there are two-room suites for groups of surfers and a dedicated family room.
Previous guests rave about the welcome they receive from owner Don Alfredo and his family, as well as the overall tranquility of the property. Hearty breakfasts are available on request.
“Honestly ran by the loveliest of people.” – Fisher (read more reviews here)
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About the authors
We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.
Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.
Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans.
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