An Introduction To Olon Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | May 05, 2025
Olon surf offers a peaceful alternative to the buzz of nearby Montanita, making it a perfect spot for those craving great waves in a more laid-back setting. Just a few minutes north of its lively neighbor, Olon is a small, welcoming surf town with long sandy beaches, a relaxed vibe, & a slower pace that invites you to unwind between sessions.
The main beach break is easy to access & just steps from most accommodations. Its consistent, mellow waves are ideal for beginners learning the ropes & intermediate surfers looking to refine their skills. The wide shoreline means there’s plenty of room to spread out, so you can enjoy your surf without the crowds often found in busier spots. It’s a calm, comfortable environment to progress & have fun.
If you’re in the mood for more action, Montanita is just a short bike ride or bus trip away, offering a faster pace & more advanced breaks. With year-round waves, a friendly local community, & a peaceful vibe, Olon surf is a hidden gem that combines comfort, consistency, & natural beauty for the ultimate surf escape.
Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you if you decide to make a purchase or book a service through them. We only promote products and services that we believe in, and your support helps us continue to provide honest insights and valuable content.
Thank you for your trust and for supporting our work!
In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Olon
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-
Peak Olon Surf Season | December to April
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Olon surf thrives from December through April, when clean, powerful swells reach its long beach break. Wave heights are generally in the 3 to 6-foot range, with consistent peaks ideal for carving & performance surfing. Early mornings see the best conditions before winds build.
This is when Olon surf truly shines, offering long rides with space to move & less crowd pressure than nearby Montanita. The laid-back town & scenic coastline make peak season Olon surf both a physical & mental escape.
-
Shoulder Olon Surf Season | May to June
Suited For All Skill Levels
May to July brings smaller waves & lighter winds, making Olon surf ideal for newer surfers or intermediates dialing in their skills. Conditions are consistent enough to ensure daily sessions, & wave size generally stays in the 2 to 4-foot range.
Olon surf during this time becomes more forgiving but still delivers good shape. It’s a great window for those looking to progress in a tranquil lineup. While not as powerful as peak season, Olon surf in the shoulder months offers reliable, mellow rides.
-
Low Olon Surf Season | August to November
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
During the low season, Olon surf becomes softer & more beginner-friendly. With waves hovering around 1 to 3 feet, this time of year is perfect for learning. Long flat spells may occur, but with the right tide & patience, Olon surf still offers clean peelers for longboards.
Fewer tourists & uncrowded conditions define this season. It’s not the most exciting time for advanced surfers, but the peaceful beach & gentle surf make Olon a great place to slow down & focus on fundamentals.
Olon Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Olon Surf Temperature:
22–24°C (72–75°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini is all you need, but a spring suit adds comfort on chilly mornings.
Rainfall:
Only 2–6 days per month, mostly brief & isolated.
Olon Surf Temperature:
24–26°C (75–79°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are ideal, consider a rash vest for extra comfort and sun protection.
Rainfall:
12–15 days from December–March; reduces to 7–10 in April & May
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Olon
| Olon Surf Spots | Distance from Olon | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Olon Beach |
In town centre |
2-6 foot |
Gentle beach break |
Beginner to intermediate, great for learners |
|
Montanita Beach |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) south |
2-8 foot |
Powerful point break |
Intermediate to advanced |
|
Surf Spots Within the Area |
||||
|
La Entrada |
Approx. 8km (5mi) north |
2-5 foot |
Consistent beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
|
Ayampe Beach |
Approx. 25km (16mi) north |
2-6 foot |
Mellow beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
Further Information To Olon Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Olon Beach is a wide, sandy beach break just south of Ayampe, offering waves that range from soft rollers to more powerful peaks on larger swells. At mid tide, a consistent southwest swell & offshore northeast winds create clean faces ideal for both longboarding & short-boarding.
The take-off zone is gentle, & the sandy bottom ensures a forgiving environment for learners, while stronger sets peel into rideable walls for intermediates. Due to its proximity to Olon village, the lineup sees a moderate local crowd, but the ample shoreline provides enough peaks to spread out. Palm-fringed dunes & easy parking make Olon a welcoming spot for all levels.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: South or north
- Crowd Factor: High
Montanita Beach is a dynamic beach break that peaks when a steady south or north groundswell meets light northeast or southeast winds at mid tide. Waves break both left & right over a shallow sandbar, producing waist- to chest-high rollers on smaller swells & chest- to head-high walls when the swell builds. The take-off is forgiving, allowing for smooth trim lines & playful turns, while larger days bring occasional shoulder-high barrels.
The sand bottom consistently reshapes, creating multiple peaks that spread surfers along the shoreline. Despite heavy usage, its breadth ensures plenty of surfable zones. Montanita Beach delivers a reliable, friendly wave that caters to all levels & rewards anyone chasing a classic beach break.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
La Entrada is a right-hand point break just around the corner from Ayampe, known for its clean, peeling walls that provide a more performance-oriented ride. Best at low to mid tide when a southwest swell & light northeast winds combine, the wave breaks over a sand-&-rock reef, offering long, drawn-out sections that reward precise trimming & carving.
While the take-off can be a touch critical, the reward is a wave that can hold size & shape through several sections. Crowds are moderate, as most surfers cycle through Ayampe & Las Tunas before venturing here. The unspoiled backdrop & consistent quality make La Entrada a must-try for experienced riders.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: All tides
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest or Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Ayampe Beach offers a long, open-ocean beach break that works in virtually any tide, making it an attractive option for surfers year-round. A steady southwest or northwest swell combined with calm offshore winds from the northeast produces clean, rolling peaks over a sandy bottom punctuated by occasional rocky outcrops.
The wave is forgiving on the take-off yet can develop into fast, rippable walls on larger swells, appealing to both intermediates & advanced riders. Despite its reputation, Ayampe’s lineup remains moderate thanks to its length—surfers can spread out along the beach & find uncrowded peaks.
Rating: 4/5
Travel Time To Olon Surf Spots
| Olon Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Olon Beach |
In town centre |
In town centre |
Not required |
|
Montañita |
Approx. 50 min. |
Approx. 20 min |
10-15 min.
(Local Bus or Taxi) |
|
La Entrada |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 10-15 min.
(Taxi) |
|
Cotton Tree |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 30 min. (Taxi) |
Olon Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Olon surf schools offer a more relaxed & quiet alternative to nearby Montanita, ideal for learners who want focused instruction in a calm setting. Surf Report Olon provides professional instruction with a personalized approach, helping you build confidence and skills in the water.
Escuela de Surf Olon is another fantastic option, with experienced instructors offering group and private lessons to ensure a fun and safe learning experience.Kings Olon combines expert coaching with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to learn or refine their surfing skills.
With friendly instructors & a peaceful atmosphere, Olon surf schools are perfect for building confidence & technique without the crowds.
Olon Surf Camp
6-Day Olon Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat With Vikara Healing Center
This exclusive surf & yoga retreat for two people at Vikara Healing Center in Olon offers a personalized & immersive experience on Ecuador’s stunning Pacific coast. The program blends daily surf instruction with mindful yoga sessions & functional gym training, all designed to help you improve technique, build strength, & restore balance.
You’ll also be guided by experienced instructors, including the physical trainer for the Ecuadorian National Surf Team, making it perfect for all levels—from absolute beginners to advanced surfers seeking performance gains. With oceanfront suites, relaxing massages, & access to a supportive wellness-focused community, this retreat is all about reconnecting with your body & mind while riding some of Ecuador’s best waves.
What’s Included
You’ll stay five nights in a beachfront suite at Vikara, where rooms are designed with natural furnishings, plush bedding, A/C, & garden or sea views. Your days include one surf class & one yoga session, plus three gym-based functional training classes. A full-body massage adds a rejuvenating touch to the schedule.
Daily breakfast & lunch are included, with concierge services available for custom recommendations. Surfboard rentals are covered, & airport transfers can be arranged from José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport for an additional fee. Find Out More
Discover your ideal surf camp below—compare options across Ecuador and around the world!
Olon Surfboard Hire
Olon surfboard hire is easy & laid-back, with a handful of local shops & surf hostels offering well-maintained boards just minutes from the beach. Escuela de Surf Olon offers quality surfboard rentals, conveniently located near the best breaks.
Surf Report Olon also provides reliable board hire, ensuring you have the perfect equipment to enjoy Olon’s beautiful waves. If you’re looking for stress-free access to surf gear, Olon surfboard hire has you covered.
Olon Surf Report & Surf Cam
While you’re enjoying your time, staying updated on Olon surf conditions is key to making the most of your sessions. Websites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline provide detailed weather and Olon surf reports, including swell size, wind direction, and tide times, to help you plan your day.
For those wanting a real-time view of the waves, Surfline offers live surf cameras at many popular breaks. However, access to these cameras requires a paid subscription. Despite the cost, Surfline’s cameras can be a valuable tool for surfers who want to check conditions before heading out. With these resources, you’ll always be in the know about the best times to hit the water.
How To Get To Olon Surf
- Manta Airport (MEC) To Olon
Distance: 130km (80mi)
Manta Airport (MEC) is the closest major airport for travelers heading to Olon surf. Below is a guide with estimated costs & various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Olon based on your preferences & budget.
Public Transport | Cheapest Option
- Time: 4.5-6 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $10-15 USD per person
Details:
After arriving at Manta Airport, you’ll need to take a taxi or local bus to the main Manta bus terminal. From there, board a long-distance bus heading south along the coast, typically with Cooperativa Reina del Camino or Cooperativa Manglaralto. These buses often require a transfer in Puerto Lopez or Jipijapa, where you can catch another bus heading to Olon.
Though cost-effective, this route includes at least one transfer and is best for travelers with light luggage who are comfortable navigating Ecuador’s regional bus system. Expect a scenic ride through rural villages and coastal landscapes. Bus departure times can vary, so it’s a good idea to check in advance or inquire at the station upon arrival.
Shuttle Service
- Time: 4-5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $30-$50 USD per person
Details:
Shuttle services between Manta and Olon are limited but available through select surf camps, eco-lodges, and local travel companies. These shared vans are usually pre-booked and operate on flexible schedules, often coordinated with guest arrival times.
Shuttles are a popular option among small groups or travelers who want a more comfortable and reliable ride than the bus without the cost of a private taxi. Vans are generally air-conditioned and offer space for surfboards or backpacks. Booking in advance is essential, as walk-up options at the airport are rare.
Accommodation In Olon
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€55 to €110 |
$60 to $120 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€130 to €170+ |
$140 to $180+ |
|
*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
|||
Find Your Perfect Stay
When planning your stay at Olon, Tripaneer should be your first stop, offering a seamless booking experience for surf camps and unique local adventures that truly capture the spirit of the coast. Tripaneer’s curated options ensure you start your journey with the best blend of excitement and comfort.
For those interested in a wider array of accommodation, Booking.com presents a range of luxurious beachfront properties and cozy apartments just steps away from the sand, while Hostelworld caters to budget-conscious travellers with its selection of affordable hostels and social surf lodges.
Ecuador Travel Information: The 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Discover Olon: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the waves aren’t breaking in Olon, there are still plenty of exciting activities to enjoy. Here are 4 top recommendations to make the most of your time in this vibrant coastal town.