An Introduction To Canoa Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | May 02, 2025
Canoa surf captures the Ecuadorian central coast with its long coastal and sandy shores and mellow waves. This beach town, perfect for escaping the city without a car, has surf, food, and rest, all easily walkable from one another. Whether one is just beginning or somewhere between the intermediate and experienced, there is a casual, satisfying experience to be had at Canoa.
Canoa Beach is the main break and is located right in town with gentle, rolling waves that are perfect for beginners and cruisy longboard sessions. Also, there is a lot of room along the shore so that even when the beach fills up, you will always find your own stretch of surf in private. The conditions are consistently friendly to make the beach a great location for building confidence without pressure.
More powerful peaks appear further down the beach, and several nearby breaks are easily reached by bus. Add to this the warm sunsets, laidback surfing culture, and inviting local vibe, and it just requires slowing down and enjoying the ride for a Canoa surf.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Canoa
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Peak Canoa Surf Season | December to April
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Canoa surf is at its best during the summer months when southern swells roll in with consistent 3 to 6-foot waves. This season transforms Canoa surf into a playground for intermediate & advanced surfers looking for long, peeling rights & occasional barrels.
Conditions are most reliable in the early morning, before onshore winds build in the afternoon. Canoa surf during this window is full of energy, & while the vibe remains laid-back, the waves demand more skill & confidence than in other seasons.
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Shoulder Canoa Surf Season | May to June
Suited For All Skill Levels
May through July brings slightly smaller but still fun surf to Canoa. With waves averaging 2 to 4 feet, Canoa surf becomes more accessible for beginner & progressing surfers. The lineup is generally uncrowded, & conditions are typically mellow, perfect for practicing turns & improving consistency.
Canoa surf in the shoulder months may lack the punch of peak season, but it delivers smooth rides & fewer surfers competing for waves, making it a fantastic time to grow your skills in forgiving surf.
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Low Canoa Surf Season | August to November
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
During the low season, Canoa surf shifts into gentle mode. Wave heights drop to around 1 to 3 feet, with occasional flat spells & only rare southern swell pulses. Canoa surf in these months is ideal for absolute beginners or those looking to longboard easy peelers.
The beach remains quiet, & the mellow waves offer a laid-back experience perfect for relaxed sessions. Advanced surfers might get bored, but for those just getting started, the soft, manageable Canoa surf is all you need.
Canoa Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Canoa Surf Temperature:
22–24°C (72–75°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini is ideal, a spring suit is a smart option for dawn or windy sessions.
Rainfall:
Only 2–6 days per month, mostly brief & isolated.
Canoa Surf Temperature:
24–26°C (75–79°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini is perfect; a rash vest is useful for sun protection during long sessions.
Rainfall:
12–15 days from December–March; reduces to 7–10 in April & May
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Canoa
| Canoa Surf Spots | Distance from Canoa | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
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Canoa Beach |
In town centre |
2-6 foot |
Mellow beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Surf Spots Within the Area |
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San Vicente |
Approx. 15km (9.3mi) south |
2-8 foot |
Powerful beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Jama Beach |
Approx. 50km (31mi) north |
2-5 foot |
Consistent beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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La Boca |
Approx. 65km (40mi) south |
3-8 foot |
River mouth break |
Intermediate to advanced |
Further Information To Canoa Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: All tides
- Wind: East or southeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Canoa Beach is a sprawling beach break that takes nearly any swell but performs best when a northwest ground-swell aligns with steady east-southeast offshore winds. Because it works on all tide stages, surfers can find fun, rippable peaks throughout the day.
The wave breaks both left & right over a wide sandbar, offering gentle rollers for beginners & faster, more critical sections for intermediates. Its remote setting & vast shoreline mean crowds stay low, giving riders plenty of room to practice turns or catch long rides.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: East or southeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
San Vicente is a lesser-known beach break just south of Canoa, offering mellow, rolling waves that suit all levels. It works in any tide but shines when a northwest swell meets clean east-southeast winds, forming long walls perfect for longboarding or relaxed carving. The broad, flat sandbar produces predictable peaks, making it an excellent spot for beginners refining fundamentals.
Crowds remain low due to limited amenities & its slightly remote location. Surrounded by palm groves & featuring a tranquil shoreline, San Vicente provides a peaceful alternative when Canoa’s main peaks draw larger groups.
Rating: 3/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: All tides
- Wind: Southeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Jama Beach is a wide beach break near the fishing village of Jama, favored for its consistent, easy-going waves that suit beginners & intermediates. Whether at low, mid, or high tide, a northwest swell combined with southeast offshore winds creates clean, rolling peaks over a forgiving sandy bottom.
The wave lacks the performance sections of Canoa’s primary break but rewards surfers with long, glide-able rides. Minimal surf traffic keeps the lineup uncrowded, & simple beachside campgrounds offer a rustic stay. For those chasing gentle conditions & a slow-paced surf experience, Jama Beach is a hidden gem.
Rating: 3/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: All tides
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: North
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
La Boca (“the mouth”) is a small point break where a river meets the Pacific, creating a playful left over a sand-&-rock bottom. It works on all tides but is at its best when a north swell with a light southerly wind, producing clean, head-high to overhead walls.
The take-off can be steep, yet the wave offers a rewarding inside section with rippable shoulders. Crowds remain low to moderate due to its secluded access, reach it via a brief walk through river mangroves. Its unique setting & fun wave shape make La Boca a worthwhile detour for adventurous surfers.
Rating: 4/5
Travel Time To Canoa Surf Spots
| Canoa Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Canoa Beach |
In town centre |
In town centre |
Not required |
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San Vicente |
Not advised |
Not advised |
20-25 min.
(Local Bus or Taxi) |
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Jama Beach |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 60 min.
(Local Bus or Taxi)
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La Boca |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 80 min.
(Local Bus or Taxi) |
Accommodation In Canoa
For Ecuador surf trips, Trip.com is one of the best places to get accommodation near the beach. Their accommodations range from fancy hotels to budget surf hostels. Booking a place in advance gives you more time to surf than to worry about accommodation.
Take your surfing skills to the next level in Ecuador with Tripaneer surf camps, which provide coaching, cozy places to stay, and a community of fellow surfers. These camps give you a perfect opportunity to improve your skills while enjoying the rich surf culture.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€18 to €23 |
$20 to $25 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€25 to €65 |
$30 to $70 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€75 to €140+ |
$80 to $150+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Canoa Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Canoa surf schools are ideal for first-timers & casual learners, offering approachable instruction on long, gentle waves. Malu Surf Retreat provides expert surf lessons tailored to all skill levels, helping participants build confidence and improve their technique in a supportive environment.
Canoa Surf Academy is a popular choice for surfers of all levels, with skilled instructors offering group and private lessons to help you develop your skills in a fun and safe environment.
Happy Happy KIKI Surf School brings a lively and enjoyable approach to surf instruction, making it a great option for anyone looking to learn while soaking up Canoa’s vibrant atmosphere.
With beginner-friendly conditions & supportive coaching, Canoa surf schools make learning both fun & low-pressure.
Canoa Surf Camp
Malu Surf Retreat offers an immersive surf camp experience, featuring multi-day packages that include professional instruction, comfortable accommodations, and the opportunity to embrace Canoa’s relaxed surf culture. Guests can enjoy the perfect mix of skill-building and relaxation in a welcoming coastal setting.
While exploring Ecuador, don’t miss Vistamar Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat in the laid-back town of Ayampe, offering thoughtfully curated surf and yoga retreat packages that blend adventure with relaxation. More information can be found in our Ayampe surf page.
Canoa Surfboard Hire
Canoa surfboard hire is affordable & easy to find, with several beachfront vendors & surf hostels renting a range of beginner-appropriate boards. Most gear is geared toward mellow waves & easy rides.
Happy Happy KIKI Surf School offers surfboard hire, ensuring you have everything you need to catch the waves and enjoy the surf at your own pace.
Canoa Surf Academy also provides reliable surfboard rentals, conveniently located near the beach. If you’re looking for a no-fuss surf session, Canoa surfboard hire delivers.
Canoa Surf Report & Surf Cam
Being connected and informed makes all the difference in Canoa surf. Surf-Forecast provides accurate tide and swell forecasts, while Surfline offers subscription-based live cams at popular Ecuador surf breaks.
With a Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM, internet access is instant on arrival, no need for local SIM cards or shops. This helps you monitor conditions, watch live cams, and share your Canoa surf experiences without any delay.
How To Get To Canoa Surf
- Manta Airport (MEC) To Canoa
Distance: 100km (62mi)
Traveling from Manta Airport (MEC) to Canoa surf, offers several options depending on your budget, time constraints, and comfort preferences. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the best mode of transportation.
Public Transport
Approx. 3-3.5 hrs.
Details:
From Manta Airport, take a taxi or local bus to the Manta Terminal Terrestre. From there, board a bus operated by companies like Cooperativa de Transportes Flota Bolívar to Rocafuerte.
Upon arrival in Rocafuerte, transfer to another bus heading to Canoa. This route is economical but involves multiple transfers and may have limited schedules, especially in the evenings.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 1.5-2 hrs.
Details:
Some hotels and tour operators in Canoa offer shuttle services from Manta Airport. These services can be arranged in advance and may include amenities such as air conditioning and space for surfboards or additional luggage.
Pre-arrange your shuttle with HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to guarantee a ride waiting when you land. This service provides an easy, fast transfer from the airport to the beach with no waiting.
Ecuador Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Surfing in Ecuador is affordable and adventurous, but it’s smart to know the travel basics. Ecuador uses the US Dollar, and while cards are accepted in cities, cash is key in surf villages. Spanish is spoken everywhere, and English may be limited. Tap water is not safe to drink, so bottled is the way to go.
Our Ecuador surf page outlines all 7 essentials, from visa rules and health care to emergency numbers, so you’re prepared before you hit the coast.
Travel Insurance For Your Canoa Surf Trip
You are contemplating the ideal surf trip to the Ecuador and then suddenly there’s the error of misplaced luggage by the airline or landing sorely sick. These kinds of problems transform a surf trip into a search for solutions. Travel insurance is what makes it different for adjusting from or cancelling one’s trip.
VisitorsCoverage has designed plans that back traveling surfers all over the place. When it comes to covering lost gear or even dealing with a hospital visit, having coverage offers many options. Ecuador and Canoa surf trips should be full of surprises but not expensive ones.
Discover Canoa: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the waves aren’t working in Canoa, there are plenty of other exciting ways to enjoy your time. Here are 5 top activities to explore during your stay.