Stretching 2,250 kilometres along the Pacific Ocean, Ecuador delivers some of the best surf in South America. It boasts wide, golden beaches that provide an ideal backdrop for riding waves and warm water temperatures - it’s possible to surf in just boardshorts or a light rash guard throughout the year.
As surfing continues to grow in popularity across Ecuador, the infrastructure to support the sport has expanded. Rental shops and surf schools have popped up in many coastal destinations, some of which have developed a strong surf culture that’s all part of their allure. The local surfing community is passionate about sharing their love of the sport and many Ecuadorians are rising through the ranks of the global surf scene.
Whether you're an experienced wave rider or just starting out, the Ecuadorian coast offers an abundance of world-class spots to explore, from long, gentle rollers to powerful, barrelling breaks that will challenge even the most skilled surfers.
In this article, we’ll introduce 7 of the best surf spots in Ecuador, from the backpacker-friendly beaches of Montañita to the big wave energy of San Mateo and the wildlife-rich Galapagos Islands. For each destination, we’ve highlighted eco-friendly accommodation options to help you plan a sustainable trip.
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Montañita
Best town for surf culture in Ecuador
Montañita is undoubtedly one of the most popular surf spots in Ecuador, drawing in wave-chasers, beachgoers and backpackers from around the world with its laidback vibe. Located on the country's southern Pacific coast, this vibrant beach town has well and truly established itself as a mecca for surf culture.
The main surf spot, known as La Punta, is a long beach break that's perfect for novice surfers, with rolling whitewash and gentle, forgiving waves that allow newbies to practice their skills. But Montañita isn't just a haven for learners - there’s also a right-hand point break at its northern end that provides more experienced riders with opportunities to carve, turn, and even catch the occasional tube.
Beyond the surf, Montañita is renowned for its laidback, bohemian atmosphere and boasts an abundance of affordable accommodation options, plus inspiring places to eat. All of this combines to make Montañita an ideal base for a few days (or a few weeks) if you want to immerse yourself in Ecuador's surf culture.
Eco-friendly places to stay in Montañita for surfers
With its absolute beachfront setting, this eco-friendly hotel in Montañita takes sustainability seriously, using eco cleaning products, reducing water usage and irrigating its gardens using grey water. The beautiful rooms and suites boast ocean views while meals are served with your feet sunk into the sand.
“Heavenly!" - Natalia (read more reviews here)
Just steps from the beach, this three-bedroom holiday rental in Montañita is perfect for families or groups of surfers wanting an exclusive stay. It has been elegantly designed with bamboo and other natural materials, complete with lots of cosy nooks to relax in between surfs.
“Super comfortable place and very nice to be with family or friends.” - Sofia (read more reviews here)
Perched on a hill overlooking the beach, this Montañita ecolodge is a great choice if you want to be away from all the party action. It boasts a gorgeous infinity pool, a children’s playground and an open-air dining room where delicious meals are served.
“Feels like family.” - Lewis (read more reviews here)
Best surf spots in Ecuador
Salinas
Best place to surf in Ecuador for experienced boardriders
If you venture south from Montañita, you'll eventually arrive in Salinas, which offers some of Ecuador's best waves. This stretch of coastline is home to a diverse array of breaks, each with its own unique character and challenge. San Lorenzo caters to beginner and intermediate surfers alike with its consistent, user-friendly swells while La Loberia attracts those seeking more challenging conditions.
Of particular note is wave-rich Playa de la FAE, located within the confines of the Ecuadorian Air Force Base. Fronted by a reef, it produces powerful, hollow waves that challenge even the most experienced surfers. To access this exclusive spot, you’ll need to present suitable identification at the entrance to the base.
Eco-friendly places to stay in Salinas for surfers
Nestled within a garden filled with native animals, this Salinas ecolodge provides comfortable doubles, triples and quadruples for groups of surfers. There are sweeping views across the beach from the open-air terrace where meals are served at breakfast, lunch and dinner.
“It is like staying in a zoo with animals freely walking around the property, a true ecological oasis.” - Tom (read more reviews here)
With its colourful facade, this budget-friendly Salinas hostel is a great choice if you’re counting your coins, with affordable dorms and private rooms (some with ensuite bathrooms). It’s located just a stone’s throw from the beach and within walking distance of numerous bars and restaurants.
“A 10+ stay.” - Rebecca (read more reviews here)
Mompiche
Best place to surf in Ecuador for all levels
In northern Ecuador is the charming fishing town of Mompiche, which offers something for surf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Dotted with rustic bamboo huts and laidback hostels, this picturesque community is fringed by a mangrove forest and the vibe is incredibly relaxed.
When it comes to waves, the crown jewel is La Punta, a classic point break that serves up long, gentle left-handers perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers. Also forgiving is the beach break of El Rio, just to the right of Mompiche's main stretch, which provides mellow conditions on mid to high tides.
More experienced wave riders will relish the challenge of Playa Negra, which offers powerful, tubing waves when north swells arrive. Board rentals and lessons are available at one of the many surf schools and shops dotting Mompiche’s streets.
Eco-friendly places to stay in Mompiche for surfers
Overlooking a gorgeous (and largely deserted beach), this Mompiche ecolodge receives rave reviews for its relaxing atmosphere and the friendliness of its hosts. While you can dine on delicious seafood (and vegan dishes) at the onsite restaurant, there are plenty more just a short walk away.
“Simply phenomenal.” - Willemijn (read more reviews here)
Featuring a handful of bamboo bungalows and dorms, this eco-friendly Mompiche lodge is located just three minutes’ walk from the beach. In addition to a shared kitchen where you can prepare your own meals, there’s a yoga deck and plenty of hammocks for relaxing in between surfs.
"The best place to stay in Mompiche!” - Leticia (read more reviews here)
Constructed from locally sourced materials, La Casa is an eco-friendly Mompiche guesthouse that offers discounted board rentals for guests. Aside from composting food waste and implementing a grey water system, this sustainably run hotel operates a small cafe where you can grab breakfast and evening snacks.
"Perfect relaxation spot by the beach.” - Imogen (read more reviews here)
Best places to surf in Ecuador
Galapagos
Best place to surf in Ecuador for wildlife encounters
Situated off the coast of Ecuador in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the Galapagos Islands are a one-of-a-kind destination. This remote archipelago is renowned for its incredible diversity of wildlife, from giant tortoises to playful sea lions and blue-footed boobies. Its wildlife diversity is matched only by its spectacular landscapes - this really is like nowhere else on Earth!
Beyond being an ecotourism hotspot, the Galapagos also happens to be a world-class surfing destination. This is thanks to the islands’ unique geographical location that exposes them to swells from both the North and South Pacific. The waves here are nothing short of legendary, with powerful, barrelling reef breaks that challenge even the most experienced surfers.
Highlights include Punta Carola on San Cristobal (not far from the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno) and picturesque Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz. The volcanic rock formations create an almost otherworldly backdrop as you paddle into the waves, making for an unforgettable surfing experience. If you’re heading to Ecuador, the Galapagos is an incredible destination to tick off your travel (and surf) bucket list.
Eco-friendly places to stay in the Galapagos for surfers
Surrounded by fruit trees and hammocks for relaxing in, this eco-friendly hostel in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is ideal for surfers wanting to tackle the break at Punta Carola. There are single and double rooms, plus two-room suites and a dedicated family room.
"Honestly ran by the loveliest of people.” - Fisher (read more reviews here)
Overlooking the water, this upmarket Galapagos ecolodge offers all-inclusive packages including tours exploring all corners of the archipelago. It’s a great base if you want to surf Tortuga Bay, with stylish rooms and a breezy terrace where meals are served.
"Everything was over the top perfection.” - Cynthia (read more reviews here)
Best surf spots in Ecuador
Ayampe
Best place for a laid-back Ecuador surf trip
Ayampe is a sleepy, laid-back town to the north of Montañita that has remained true to its unhurried spirit. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking to escape the crowds of Montañita and the stresses of everyday life, with a friendly, relaxed vibe in the water (provided you respect the local etiquette).
This quaint coastal enclave draws wave enthusiasts from near and far, who come to ride the consistent breaks that roll in from both the north and south. The area boasts swells that can reach up to eight feet, creating a diverse array of beach breaks that cater to surfers of all skill levels. A handful of surf schools offer lessons for novices, as well as board rentals.
While it’s much quieter in Ayampe than Montañita, the peak season does see an influx of visitors. At this time, it’s best to head towards the river mouth or venture down to Las Tunas to find more space and solitude.
Eco-friendly places to stay in Ayampe for surfers
Just steps from Ayampe Beach, this charming hostel is constructed from natural materials, with exposed wooden ceilings in many of the rooms. The onsite cafe serves hearty breakfasts and board rentals are available onsite.
“A small paradise!” - Chloe (read more reviews here)
Boasting elevated views across the coastline, this three-bedroom apartment is the perfect base for a group of surf buddies or surfing families. The floor-to-ceiling windows and use of natural materials are simply stunning, with a fully equipped kitchen and a sun terrace among the facilities.
“Watching the sunset is from another world!” - Patricio (read more reviews here)
Best places to surf in Ecuador
San Mateo
Best place to surf in Ecuador for big wave riders
Located just a stone’s throw from the city of Manta, San Mateo is a small fishing village that draws big-wave surfers from around the world to its legendary point break. From December through March, the waves here can reach up to nine feet in height, throwing up plenty of challenges for seasoned shredders.
Beyond the main break, nearby beaches like San Lorenzo and Santa Rosa also serve up decent surf, providing ample options for surfers of all skill levels. For those seeking a break away from the water, the nearby Pacoche Wildlife Reserve offers a chance to experience a slice of Ecuadorian wilderness while spotting monkeys and other native wildlife.
Eco-friendly places to stay in San Mateo for surfers
Tucked behind the dunes of Santa Marianita Beach, this sustainably designed hotel is within easy reach of the surf at San Mateo. All of the rooms are impeccably designed with high-end furnishings and there’s a stunning infinity pool to coof off in.
"Stunning property with a high end, sophisticated vibe.” - Robert (read more reviews here)
Wildlife-loving surfers should consider this ecolodge in the nearby Pacoche Wildlife Refuge. Aside from its chalet-style rooms, it offers guided excursions to discover some of the species that occupy the surrounding tropical forest.
"Great wilderness experience with the comforts of home.” - Joanne (read more reviews here)
Best surf spots in Ecuador
Canoa
Best place to surf in Ecuador for beginners
A couple of hours’ drive north of San Mateo is the town of Canoa, which has garnered a reputation as a blissful spot for relaxation. With its gorgeous beaches and gentle waves, it is considered one of the best places to surf in Ecuador for beginners. The consistent beach breaks form close to the shoreline, providing the perfect conditions for novice surfers to find their footing and experience the thrill of riding waves for the first time.
Numerous surf schools and private instructors dot the shoreline, offering lessons and equipment rentals at affordable prices. And when the surf sessions wind down, Canoa's lively nightlife scene gears up, with buzzing bars and live music venues that exemplify the spirit of Ecuadorian coastal living.
Eco-friendly places to stay in Canoa for surfers
With everything from shared dorms to family-friendly suites, this eco-friendly Canoa hotel has something for everyone. It’s located just steps from the beach and has an outdoor kitchen that guests can use, as well as a restaurant where breakfasts and fresh juices are available.
“Love it here!” - Hermine (read more reviews here)
Sustainably designed, this highly-rated Canoa hotel features comfortable private rooms with fans and ensuite bathrooms. There are several hammocks strung throughout the property where you can kick back with a good book, plus a shared kitchen for self-catering.
"Beautiful hostal, warm welcome, very helpful staff.” - Michaela (read more reviews here)
Best time to surf in Ecuador
Ecuador's prime surf season extends from December through April when the North Pacific experiences powerful winter storms. During this period, a steady flow of NW swells make
their way down the coast, accompanied by glassy or offshore winds. El Niño years, when the Pacific storm track shifts further south, are particularly legendary in Ecuador, with swells of incredible power and quality.
While the May to November "off-season" does bring more prevalent onshore winds from the S-SW, the mornings can still offer glassy conditions. While the waves tend to be smaller, they’re incredibly fun (and less crowded) - perfect for beginners and intermediates looking to hone their skills.
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