An Introduction To Salinas Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | May 05, 2025
Salinas surf is a great choice if you’re looking for waves with a side of city energy. Right on Ecuador’s southern coast, Salinas blends easy access to the ocean with all the comforts of a lively beach town. It’s the kind of place where you can roll out of bed, walk to the water, & grab a post-surf snack without skipping a beat. For surfers of all levels, it’s convenient, fun, & super beginner-friendly.
The main beach has long, gentle waves that are perfect if you’re just learning or want a low-pressure session. Everything you need—from board rentals to lessons—is right on the beach. If you’re feeling ready to step things up, head to El Barco, a local favorite known for more powerful, consistent waves, especially when the swell picks up. It’s just a short ride or even walk away, depending on where you’re staying.
What really makes Salinas surf stand out is how easy it all is. You’ve got solid waves, good food, great sunsets, & no need for a car. Whether you’re here to catch your first wave or just enjoy beach-town life, Salinas surf delivers.
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In This Guide
Best Time To Surf Salinas
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Peak Salinas Surf Season | December to April
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Salinas surf peaks from December to April when southern swells pulse into the protected coves & beaches. The main surf spots—like La Lobería & Punta Carnero—light up with waves between 3 & 6 feet. Salinas surf during this window is reliable & clean, especially in the mornings.
These conditions draw seasoned surfers from around Ecuador & beyond. Despite its popularity, the different breaks help spread out crowds. If you’re chasing quality Ecuador waves, this is the best time for top-tier Salinas surf.
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Shoulder Salinas Surf Season | May to June
Suited For All Skill Levels
Salinas surf during the shoulder season becomes more mellow but remains consistent. Wave sizes range from 2 to 4 feet, making this period perfect for those transitioning from beginner to intermediate. The area’s sheltered beaches still catch enough swell to produce smooth, rolling waves.
Salinas surf in these months is inviting & ideal for refining technique. There’s also less competition in the water, giving surfers more room to move. It’s a solid season for getting comfortable on a board in a scenic, laid-back setting.
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Low Salinas Surf Season | August to November
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
Salinas surf is at its weakest from August through November, with smaller waves & more inconsistent swell. Most days see 1 to 3-foot waves that suit beginner lessons or mellow longboarding sessions. While the energy of peak season is absent, Salinas surf still has charm—especially for those learning the basics.
The calm conditions, warm water, & gentle tides create a stress-free environment. For experienced surfers, it might be too soft, but for newcomers, Salinas surf in the low season is ideal for easy progress.
Salinas Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Salinas Surf Temperature:
22–24°C (72–75°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are usually enough; a 1–2 mm spring suit is ideal for comfort.
Rainfall:
Only 2–6 days per month with little interruption to surf days.
Salinas Surf Temperature:
24–26°C (75–79°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are best; a rash vest is useful during long sunny surfs.
Rainfall:
12–15 days from December–March; reduces to 7–10 in April & May
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Salinas
| Salinas Surf Spots | Distance from Salinas | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Salinas Beach |
In town centre |
2-6 foot |
Mellow beach break |
Beginner to intermediate, great for learners |
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Chipipe Beach |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) north |
2-5 foot |
Consistent beach break |
Beginner to intermediate, good for building confidence |
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La Lobería |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) west |
2-8 foot |
Point Break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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El Barco |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) east |
3-7 foot |
Beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Surf Spots Within the Area |
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Punta Carnero |
Approx. 10km (6.2mi) south |
3-8 foot |
Powerful beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
Further Information To Salinas Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Salinas Beach is a classic beach break that excels at mid tide when a southwest ground-swell coincides with offshore northeast winds. Peaks break both left & right over shifting sandbars, generating waist- to head-high waves that accommodate all skill levels. Smaller swells yield mellow rollers, while larger swells produce fast, punchy shoulders & occasional hollow sections.
The sandy bottom reforms daily, creating multiple peaks along the shore & dispersing lineups. Though crowds can be dense near popular peaks, further along the beach riders find open zones. Salinas Beach offers reliable, rideable conditions year-round, making it a cornerstone for progressive beach break surfing.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Chipipe Beach is a mellow beach break that peaks at mid to high tide with a southwest swell & clean northeast winds. The broad sandbar forms gentle lefts & rights, averaging waist-high, ideal for beginners refining balance & intermediates practicing trim. The take-off is straightforward, & the soft sand bottom provides a forgiving environment.
On larger swells, the waves can build into chest-high faces with smooth shoulders for carving. Moderate crowds enjoy spacious lineups due to the beach’s length. Chipipe Beach delivers consistent, approachable waves perfect for relaxed progression in a low-pressure setting.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: South
- Crowd Factor: Low
La Lobería is a secluded point break that comes alive at low to mid tide under a south swell & light northeast winds. Waves peel along a rocky headland onto a sandy shelf, offering smooth left-hand walls that range from chest-high to overhead. The take-off is precise, opening into consistent, glassy sections ideal for advanced surfers seeking performance turns & occasional barrel opportunities.
Limited access via a short beach walk keeps crowds minimal, allowing surfers to score open peaks. La Lobería’s unspoiled reef bank delivers high-quality rides in a tranquil setting, perfect for those chasing pristine point-break sessions.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
El Barco is a right-hand point break named for the nearby remnants of an old vessel. At mid tide, with a southwest swell & offshore northeast winds, waves peel around the wreck, forming fast, chest-high walls that transition into smooth ridable shoulders. The mixed reef-&-sand bottom creates a punchy take-off followed by more forgiving inside sections.
Occasional barrel pockets appear on larger swells. Limited shoreline access & minimal parking keep crowds sparse. Surfers benefit from open lineups & consistent shape, making El Barco a distinct point-break experience.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Punta Carnero is a heavy beach break that thrives at mid to high tide when a solid southwest swell meets light northeast winds. Peaks break both ways over a steep, shifting sandbank, delivering fast, punchy walls & occasional hollow barrels. The take-off zone can be steep, requiring sharp reflexes, but inside sections provide rippable shoulders for advanced maneuvers.
Lineups stay moderate due to the break’s power limiting intermediate traffic. Punta Carnero’s consistent plunging peaks attract experienced surfers seeking performance beach-break conditions in a raw, coastal environment.
Rating: 4.5/5
Travel Time To Salinas Surf Spots
| Salinas Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Salinas Beach |
In town centre |
In town centre |
Not required |
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Chipipe Beach |
Approx. 25 min. |
Approx. 10-15 min. |
Not required |
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La Lobería |
Approx. 50 min. |
Approx. 20 min. |
10-15 min. (Local Bus or Taxi) |
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El Barco |
Approx. 45 min. |
Approx. 20 min. |
15 min. (Local Bus or Taxi) |
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Punta Carnero |
Not advised |
Approx. 30 min. |
20 min. (Local Bus or Taxi) |
Salinas Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Salinas surf schools provide beginner-friendly lessons on one of Ecuador’s most accessible beaches. Escuela Surf Paradise Salinas Ecuador provides professional surf lessons tailored to all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. With skilled instructors and a welcoming environment, it’s a top choice for those eager to catch their first wave or refine their skills.
For those interested in stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), Califas Escuela De SUP offers specialized lessons, focusing on this fun and relaxing water sport. While not a surfboard rental service, they are a great option for trying out SUP on Salinas’ scenic waters.
For those looking to ease into surfing, Salinas surf schools offer the right mix of gentle conditions & supportive coaching.
Salinas Surf Camp
Salinas doesn’t offer dedicated surf camps, but if you’re exploring more of Ecuador, head to Olon and check out Vikara Healing Center for a unique surf and yoga retreat experience. More information can be found below.
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!
Salinas Surfboard Hire
Salinas surfboard hire is convenient & beginner-focused, with a variety of soft-tops & longboards available right along the waterfront. Rentals are typically affordable & easy to arrange on the spot.
Escuela Surf Paradise Salinas Ecuador also offers surfboard rentals, providing well-maintained equipment for surfers looking to hit the waves independently.
With accessible gear & friendly rental services, Salinas surfboard hire makes it simple to get in the water. Ideal for casual sessions & newcomers, it’s a low-pressure way to enjoy surfing in a calm, sheltered bay.
Salinas Surf Report & Surf Cam
While you’re enjoying your time, staying updated on Salinas surf conditions is key to making the most of your sessions. Websites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline provide detailed weather and Salinas 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 Salinas Surf
- Guayaquil Airport (GYE) To Salinas
Distance: 145km (90mi)
The most convenient way to reach Salinas surf is by flying into Guayaquil Airport (GYE). Here’s a guide with estimated costs & transportation options.
Public Transport | Cheapest Option
- Time: 2-3 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $6-10 USD per person
Details:
From the Guayaquil bus terminal, catch a direct CLP bus to Salinas. Buses run frequently throughout the day, especially on weekends & holidays. The ride is comfortable & straightforward, although it can get crowded during national holidays.
It’s one of the most affordable & easiest public transport options for reaching a surf destination in Ecuador.
Shuttle Service
- Time: 2-2.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $30-$50 USD per person
Details:
Private shuttles & shared vans are available to Salinas, often through tour companies or local hotels. Shuttles provide an easy & reliable service, complete with surfboard-friendly vehicles.
Booking in advance is recommended to guarantee availability, especially around local festivals & surf competitions.
Accommodation In Salinas
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€12 to €22 |
$15 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 |
€80 to €160+ |
$90 to $170+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Find Your Perfect Stay
When planning your stay at Salinas, 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.
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