Ayampe Surf Guide | Explore The Best Surf Spots Without a Car

An Introduction To Ayampe Surf

Ayampe surf, a tranquil coastal gem in Ecuador, is a paradise for surfers seeking consistent waves & a laid-back vibe without the need for a car. Nestled between lush green hills & the vast Pacific Ocean, this charming village offers an escape into nature’s serenity, making it an idyllic destination for surfers of all skill levels. Beyond its waves, Ayampe’s natural beauty, from vibrant sunsets to the calls of tropical birds, creates an atmosphere of peaceful immersion, perfect for unwinding after a surf session.

The main beach break, conveniently situated just steps from most accommodations, provides dependable waves year-round, making it a favourite for beginners honing their skills & intermediate surfers seeking consistent rides. For those looking to push their limits, a short walk along the coastline leads to the more demanding waves of Las Tunas. This nearby break challenges experienced surfers with steeper, faster waves, offering a thrilling complement to Ayampe’s gentler swells.

Ayampe’s compact layout, warm & welcoming community, & easy access to public transportation make it a perfect destination for those who prefer a car-free surf adventure. With its mellow atmosphere, uncrowded waters, & stunning natural beauty, Ayampe stands out as a top choice for surfers looking to connect with nature & enjoy the simplicity of coastal living.

Best Time For Ayampe Surf

Seasons:

Winter (December-February): Consistent swells with warm water & minimal wind.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini or 2mm spring suit.
Spring (March-May): Moderate, clean swells, perfect for intermediate surfers.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini.
Summer (June-August): Smaller, more manageable waves ideal for beginners.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini.
Autumn (September-November): Larger, powerful swells for more advanced surfers.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini or light wetsuit.

Surf Conditions:

Wave Size & Swell Direction: Waves range from 2 to 6 foot, best with southwest to west swells.
Break Type: Beach breaks with long, mellow rides.
Tide & Wind: Best at mid to high tide, with light offshore winds from the east.
Skill Required: Suitable for all levels, with more advanced waves further down the beach.

Ayampe Surf Spots Within a 5km Radius

Best Surf Spots	Distance from Ayampe	Wave Size	Wave Quality	Skill Level
Ayampe Beach	In town centre	2-6 foot	Mellow beach break	Beginner to intermediate
Las Tunas	Approx. 3km (1.9mi) north	3-8 foot	Powerful beach break	Intermediate to advanced
Surf Spots Within the Area
La Entrada	Approx. 15km (9mi) north	2-5 foot	Consistent beach break	All levels
Olón Beach	Approx. 30km (19mi) south	2-8 foot	Long, gentle beach break	Beginner to intermediate

Access To Ayampe Surf Spots

Best Surf Spots	Walking Time	Biking Time	Public Transport
Ayampe Beach	In town centre	Not required	Not required
Las Tunas	Approx. 50 min.	Approx. 20 min.	10-15 min. (Local bus)
La Entrada	Not advised	Not advised	Approx. 45 min. (Local bus)
Olón Beach	Not advised	Not advised	Approx. 45 min. (Local bus)

Accommodation in Ayampe

Accommodation Type	Description	Price Range per night (EUR)	Price Range per night (USD)
Hostels	Dormitory-style accommodation	N/A	N/A
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	€75 to €170	$80 to $180

How To Get To Ayampe

How to get to Ayampe from Guayaquil Airport (GYE)
To reach Ayampe, the most convenient route is to fly into Guayaquil Airport (GYE) & then take a shuttle from GYE to Puerto Lopez & taxi from Puerto Lopez to your destination.

Below is a guide with estimated costs & various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Ayampe based on your preferences & budget.

Distance: Approx. 200km (124mi)

Taxi or Ride-share:
- Time: 2.5 to 3 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $100-$180 USD
Public Transport (Bus):
- Time: 4.5 to 6 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $15-$40 USD per person
Shuttle Service (Best Option):
- Time: 3 to 4 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $35-$150 USD per person
- + Taxi to your destination – Approx. $10-15 USD

How to get to Ayampe from Quito Airport (UIO)
Below is a guide with estimated costs. The only transportation option from Quito Airport (UIO) to Ayampe is by bus, unless you choose to fly to Guayaquil Airport (GYE).

Distance: Approx. 500km (310mi)

Taxi or Ride-share:
- N/A
Public Transport (Bus):
- Time: 11 to 13 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $50-$100 USD per person
Shuttle Service:
- N/A

Discover Ayampe: What to Do When the Waves Are Flat

When the surf isn’t on in Ayampe there are plenty of other exciting activities to explore. Here are 6 recommended activities to make the most of your time.

Yoga & Wellness:
Ayampe is known for its tranquil yoga retreats & wellness centres, perfect for unwinding between surf sessions.

Nature & Wildlife:
Explore the nearby Machalilla National Park, home to exotic birds, monkeys, & other wildlife. You can also visit the Isla de la Plata for whale watching & diving.

Beaches & Water Activities:
Relax on the untouched beaches of Las Tunas or head to nearby Los Frailes for a peaceful day of swimming & sunbathing.

Fishing & Boat Tours:
Join a local fishing tour or explore the nearby mangroves by boat, taking in the diverse marine life.

Dining & Cafes:
Enjoy fresh seafood, Ecuadorian dishes, & smoothies from cosy beachfront cafes & eco-friendly restaurants.

Cycling & Surf Lessons:
Rent a bike to explore the scenic coastline or sign up for a surf lesson with a local surf school if you’re a beginner.

If the waves go flat for a few days, consider heading south to Montañita for its vibrant surf scene, nightlife, & restaurants, or explore the quiet fishing villages along the coast. Ayampe’s peaceful vibe, natural beauty, & uncrowded surf make it a must-visit for any surfer looking to experience Ecuador’s surf scene in a laid-back, car-free setting.