An Introduction To Ecuador Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | June 27, 2025
The Ecuador surf scene is a well kept secret in South America. It boasts waves all year round, warm waters, and empty, deserted beaches. Long sandy points to tropical reefs are interspersed along an incredibly lush, diverse, and diversified coastline as it runs along the Ecuador coastline. These different waterways have attracted everyone, local rippers to international surfers searching for lesser known spots to surf.
Ecuador is getting a lot of attention in the surf world as one of the newest prime surfing destinations due to its continuous swell all year long, friendly communities, and speed of life, living in a totally relaxed atmosphere. Surfing in Ecuador is infused with memory and magic, whether you chase after quiet waves in the jungle or seek a lively Ecuador surf camp getaway.
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Overview: Where To Surf In Ecuador
Ecuador is home to a mix of classic surf towns, remote beaches, and reef setups that offer wave variety and consistency throughout the year.
Along the central and northern coasts, you can discover all time spots like Montanita and Canoa, which are known for their consistent surf breaks and fun nightlife.
On the other hand, Ayampe and Mompiche offer a more chill, nature-rich experience ideal for surf focused travelers. Olon and Salinas combine beginner friendly waves and more advanced reef setups.
The surf community in Ecuador combines local charm with international flair, and the waves cater to every level of surfers. Right and left handers, beach breaks, points, all those available. This is a surf itinerary that adapts to your style of travel and level.
Best Ecuador Surf Towns
Ayampe | The Tranquil Point & Beach Break Combo
Ayampe surf offers mellow, consistent waves on a beautiful beach that isn’t too developed. The beach break at main has pretty good consistency at any tide and picks up a good solid swell where it’s perfect for intermediates and beginners. Longboarders also tend to enjoy Ayampe’s relaxing conditions, especially during low swells.
The biggest attraction for surfers to Ayampe is the serenity and beauty of nature, mixed with a good-natured surfing crowd and uncrowded breaks. Though not a party town, it is popular among travellers looking for consistency in surf and yoga retreats without the usual distractions. Find Out More
Canoa | The Longboard Friendly Beach Break Of Ecuador
Canoa surf is beginner and longboard friendly in the form of a mellow peeling beach break along a very wide-open bay. The waves here are mostly soft and forgiving, making it an ideal spot for building confidence or just cruising on longer boards. Generally, the best conditions exist at mid to high tide.
With a long sandy beach, Canoa offers plenty of opportunity for easy surf sessions and gentle learning curves. The town is laid-back and has many small restaurants, hammocks, and local surf schools, entirely willing to help introduce new surfers to the world of surfing in Ecuador. Find Out More
Mompiche | Ecuador's Best Left Point Break
Mompiche surf is about the left point wrapping around the beautiful headland. When the swell lines up, it throws out long, clean rides, putting it among Ecuador’s top waves for pros. Best known for this point, there are also the odd sandbars and beach breaks that also serve some accessible waves.
The town of Mompiche is remote and quiet, drawing surfers who want solid rides without tourist crowds. It is also a good stop for the person chasing the clean Ecuadorian waves in more off the grid settings. Better bring your gear if at all possible. Find Out More
Montanita | Ecuador's Most Celebrated Surf Party Town
Montanita surf merges reliable waves with Ecuador’s most animated beach town scene. The main beach break offers hollow peaks and punchy sections for shortboarders, especially at mid to high tide, while more advanced surfers normally go to the rocky point at the north end of the beach for the longer, faster rides.
Montanita has become a favorite for backpackers and surf travelers seeking a good mix of solid sessions and nightlife options. Expect music, food stalls, and late nights, all just steps from the sand. It is the most famous destination for Ecuadorian surf, especially for those who want waves and a social life in one place. Find Out More
Olon | A Quiet Surf Alternative Just North Of Montanita
Olon surf is a more laid-back alternative to Montanita, retreated on its long stretch of beach offering playful, user-friendly waves. The surf here can be enjoyed by beginners and intermediates alike, with clean shoulders giving plenty of room for slow takeoffs, whether for the purpose of practicing form or simply cruising along on a longboard.
Olon always feels different, away from the noise, more about community. Many surf travelers prefer to stay here for the quieter experience and only occasionally pop down to Montanita for some wave-riding and partying when they wish. This balance is making Olon a fast-rising favorite among travelers exploring Ecuador surf. Find Out More
Salinas | Ecuador's Most Developed Surf City
Salinas brings an urban edge to the Ecuador surf scene. Salinas Beach and La Loberia are the main breaks, offering a variety for all levels, from beginner-friendly beach breaks to heavier reef setups for advanced surfers. Consistency relies more on swell direction, but conditions can be surprisingly good.
A full-fledged city by almost all accounts, Salinas has all the conveniences, nightlife, and high-rise hotels one could wish for. Hardly a bad option for those looking for waves while avoiding anything remotely resembling hardship, here surf culture belends the city life, making it perfect for weekenders or mixed-longer travel plans. Find Out More
Accommodation In Ecuador
With Trip.com, it is easy to reserve hotels for your Ecuador surf trip. The selection runs from plush resorts to affordable hostels right by the beach, including everything in between. Early bookings help you reduce your stress level and maximize the actual surf time.
If you’re looking to sharpen your surfing skills in Ecuador, the surf camps with Tripaneer guarantee quality instruction, comfortable accommodation, and a friendly community. These camps present an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Ecuador surf culture while polishing your skills in a fun and social environment.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€12 to €22 |
$15 to $25 |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€25 to €65 |
$30 to $70 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€80 to €160+ |
$90 to $170+ |
|
*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
|||
Ecuador Surf Camps
Ecuador surf camps are the most effective ways to enjoy the warm and constant waves all along its Pacific shore. The prime surf camp locations that provide all kinds of waves include Ayampe, Montanita, and Olon, where fun ranged breaks meet more challenging ones making it perfect for all kinds of surf levels.
Montanita surf camps should be preferred by those wanting to combine strong waves with a bustling town scene, while not Ayampe is tranquil enough to allow surfers to fully concentrate on their progress. Olon has fun surf options within walking distance of a chilled atmosphere.
The best Ecuador surf camps are listed on Tripaneer. The surf camps include equipment, lessons, accommodation, and meals. Check out our curated selection of Ayampe, Montanita, and Olon surf camps, and visit the full page for each town to discover everything these surf rich locations have to offer.
Use the Tripaneer search tool below to discover even more Ecuador surf camp options.
Ecuador Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Travel Insurance For Your Ecuador Surf Trip
The surf breaks in Ecuador will always be there, but so will the travel mishaps. For instance, maybe your flight was canceled or your gear didn’t make it to the destination. And of course, a bad fall or sudden illness could totally wreck any trip.
VisitorsCoverage has policies designed specifically with surf travelers in mind. One simple last-minute step before the trip could save you stressful hours and hundreds of unexpected expenses.
Exploring Ecuador: The Best Sights & Landmarks To Visit
Beyond its thriving surf culture, Ecuador is a country rich in diverse landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Below are five top activities to help you make the most of your time in this incredible destination.
For even more, check out GetYourGuide and Viator, which offer everything from Galápagos tours and Amazon expeditions to historic city walks and highland adventures, giving you plenty of ways to enjoy Ecuador beyond the waves.