An Introduction To Mompiche Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | May 04, 2025
Mompiche surf remains a hidden treasure in northern Ecuador’s coast, a quiet getaway for the surfer who seeks long rides, lush scenery, and a slower pace. With a mostly flat landscape and a nice neighborly kind of atmosphere, this village is quite fit for a surf trip without the need of a car. Life here unfolds along with the tides, and everything you need is a mere stroll away, from waves to fresh food.
The main attraction is the famous left-hand point break of Mompiche. Long, smooth rides peel along the rocky headland and serve up the perfect combination of power and flow for intermediate and advanced surfers. It is the kind of break that makes you want to take your time and savor every turn.
Mellow beach breaks would be best for beginners, and for the more adventurous, there are some hidden reefs to test your skills. Uncrowded lineups, ease of access, and a warm local vibe. Surf at Mompiche is a soulful, low-key experience that could not be easy to leave behind.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Mompiche
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Peak Mompiche Surf Season | December to April
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Mompiche surf hits its stride from December to April, with southern swells feeding the famous left-hand point break. The wave here peels for up to 200 meters, making Mompiche surf a dream for regular-footers & intermediate to advanced surfers. Sets typically range from 3 to 6 feet, offering long rides & clean faces.
This season showcases Mompiche surf at its most consistent & rewarding. While the wave can get crowded on the best days, its long shape spreads the surfers out, giving everyone a chance to shine.
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Shoulder Mompiche Surf Season | May to June
Suited For All Skill Levels
From May to July, Mompiche surf becomes more accessible with smaller, slower waves. Swell consistency drops slightly, & the famous point break becomes easier to manage for those newer to the spot. With wave sizes between 2 & 4 feet, Mompiche surf still delivers long, flowing rides but without the heavy energy of peak season.
This is a great window for intermediate surfers looking to master point break etiquette & flow. Mompiche surf also becomes more relaxed during this time, offering more mellow sessions overall.
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Low Mompiche Surf Season | August to November
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
August through November is the slowest period for Mompiche surf. Waves are usually in the 1 to 3-foot range, & long flat spells are possible. Still, beginners can find value in the softer conditions, especially with a longboard.
Mompiche surf becomes much quieter, & while advanced surfers may travel elsewhere, the serenity of this season offers a peaceful surfing experience. The iconic point break still works on occasion, & when it does, it’s even more uncrowded. Mompiche surf in the low season is best enjoyed with mellow expectations.
Mompiche Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Mompiche Surf Temperature:
23–25°C (73–77°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini are perfect, but a spring suit is useful for early morning paddles.
Rainfall:
Only 3–7 days monthly with light rainfall.
Mompiche Surf Temperature:
25–27°C (77–81°F)
What To Wear:
Boardshorts/bikini still work well. a rash vest is recommended for tropical sun exposure.
Rainfall:
16–20 days from December–March; 8–12 days in April & May.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Mompiche
| Mompiche Surf Spots | Distance from Mompiche | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
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Mompiche Beach |
In town centre |
2-6 foot |
Consistent beach break |
All levels |
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Mompiche Point |
In town centre |
2-6 foot |
Long left-hand point |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Playa Negra |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) north |
2-6 foot |
Consistent beach break |
All levels |
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Surf Spots Within the Area |
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Portete Island |
Approx. 18km (11mi) south |
2-8 foot |
Powerful reef break |
Advanced |
Further Information To Mompiche Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest or Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Mompiche Beach is a long, golden-sand stretch that offers a mellow beach break perfect for beginners & longboarders. When a northwest or southwest swell meets gentle offshore winds from the northeast at mid tide, the waves form clean, waist-to-chest-high rollers that break over a soft sand bottom. These forgiving peaks make for long, playful rides, ideal for refining turns & board feel.
Although not as powerful as nearby reef or point breaks, Mompiche’s consistent shape & easy paddle-outs keep the lineup moderate, even during peak season. The surrounding mangrove-fringed bay & laid-back beach town vibe round out an inviting surf destination.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest or west
- Crowd Factor: Low to Moderate
Mompiche Point is one of Ecuador’s rare and highly regarded left-hand point breaks. When solid northwest or west swells line up with mid to high tide and light southeast winds, the wave turns into a long, wrapping left that peels flawlessly along the volcanic reef. Rides can extend over 200 meters with multiple workable sections for turns and even occasional barrels.
Though it doesn’t break often, when it does, it rivals many of South America’s better-known points. The spot remains quiet due to its remote jungle setting and challenging access. It’s best suited for intermediate and advanced surfers due to the rocky setup and potential for strong currents.
Rating: 4.5/5
chevronIdeal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Southeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to Moderate
Playa Negra, named for its dark volcanic sands, delivers a more dynamic beach break than Mompiche’s main beach. At mid tide with a northwest swell & gentle southeast winds, Playa Negra produces faster, more hollow peaks that can barrel on stronger days. The mixed sand-&-rock bottom adds bite to the wave face, challenging intermediate & advanced surfers while still providing accessible walls for those honing their skills.
Crowds are low to moderate, thanks to the slightly longer walk from town. The striking contrast of black sand against lush jungle makes each session here visually memorable as well as fun.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Portete Island sits at the northern end of Mompiche Bay & offers a sheltered reef-&-rock break that rewards the patient. Best at low to mid tide when a northwest swell wraps around the bay under calm southeast winds, Portete Island produces clean, glassy peaks with both lefts & rights.
The take-off zone is shallow, requiring care, but the payoff is smooth, barreling sections over a firm reef, ideal for advanced surfers. Accessibility involves a short boat shuttle or kayak ride, which keeps the lineup small. Surrounded by mangroves & wildlife, Portete Island feels like a remote paradise for committed wave hunters.
Rating: 4.5/5
Travel Time To Mompiche Surf Spots
| Mompiche Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Mompiche Beach |
In town centre |
In town centre |
Not required |
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Mompiche Point |
In town centre |
In town centre |
Not required |
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Playa Negra |
Approx. 25 min. |
10 min. |
Not required |
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Portete Island |
Not advised |
Not advised |
45 min. (Taxi only) |
Accommodation In Mompiche
Booking your accommodation through Trip.com ensures an easy plan for your surf trip in Ayampe. They offer various beachfront accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. The earlier you book, the more surfing you can do with less stress.
For those who would like to boost their skills in Ecuador, Tripaneer surf camps offer expert coaching coupled with comfortable lodging and a pleasant community. These camps allow the goers to fully indulge in Ecuador surf life and further heighten performance in the waves.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
|---|---|---|---|
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€8 to €18 |
$10 to $20 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€20 to €45 |
$25 to $50 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€75 to €170+ |
$80 to $180+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Mompiche Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Mompiche surf schools offer personalized, small-scale instruction in a pristine natural setting. La Pena Surf School provides expert instruction, catering to surfers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your technique, their experienced instructors will guide you through the process in Mompiche’s stunning coastal setting.
La Facha Hostel also offers surf lessons, combining accommodation with surf instruction for a convenient and enjoyable experience. Their friendly team ensures you have everything you need to learn and progress in the waves.
For those seeking a deeper connection with the ocean & their surf practice, Mompiche surf schools provide the ideal mix of calm instruction & beautiful surroundings. It’s a unique place to learn away from the usual tourist flow.
Mompiche Surf Camp
Although Mompiche doesn’t currently offer any dedicated surf camps, if you’re traveling further south along the Ecuadorian coast, we highly recommend checking out the Casa del Sol Montanita Surf Camp & Yoga Retreat in Montanita.
This lively beach town is a hotspot for surfers of all levels, offering a variety of surf spots, lessons & board rentals. More information to the Casa del Sol Montanita surf camp & yoga retreat can be found in our Montanita surf page.
Mompiche Surfboard Hire
Mompiche surfboard hire is typically run through surf lodges & local guesthouses. La Pena Surf School offers surfboard rentals with a range of options to suit different skill levels and conditions.
La Facha Hostel provides high-quality board hire as well, making it easy to get equipped and explore the beautiful Mompiche surf breaks.
Thanks to knowledgeable locals & focused inventory, Mompiche surfboard hire gives surfers exactly what they need for the town’s signature wave. It’s a quiet, well-equipped setup for making the most of your surf experience.
Mompiche Surf Report & Surf Cam
Be up to date with swell, tide and wind and enjoy a successful Mompiche surf session. Surf-Forecast provides detailed and reliable forecasts while Surfline brings live cams to see the surf in real-time at the major Ecuador beaches, but you’ll need a subscription.
A Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM makes it easy to connect since it activates digitally once you arrive and removes the woes of needing real SIM cards at the arrival point. So, you could check tide charts, view live surf cams, or upload your Mompiche surf videos anytime, anywhere!
How To Get To Mompiche Surf
- Esmeraldas Airport (ESM) To Mompiche
Distance: 110km (68mi)
Traveling from Esmeraldas Airport (ESM) to Mompiche surf, Ecuador, offers several transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a quick guide.
Public Transport
Approx. 2.5-3 hrs.
Details:
Upon arrival at Esmeraldas Airport, take a taxi or local transport to the Esmeraldas bus terminal. From there, buses operated by companies like Transportes del Pacífico and River Tabiazo depart to Mompiche multiple times daily.
The journey takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, depending on stops and traffic. This option is budget-friendly but may involve longer wait times and less comfort.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 1.5-2 hrs.
Details:
Some hotels and tour operators offer shuttle services from Esmeraldas Airport to Mompiche. These services can be arranged in advance and may include amenities such as air conditioning and space for surfboards or additional luggage.
Book your shuttle in advance with HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to have a vehicle ready when you land. This hassle-free option takes you quickly & comfortably from the airport to the beach.
Ecuador Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Ecuador offers some of South America’s best surf, but preparation is key. US Dollars are used, and many small businesses only take cash. Spanish is the main language, and outside major towns, few people speak English. Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so bottled is best.
You’ll find all 7 essentials on our Ecuador surf page, including visa info, safety guidance, health tips, and emergency numbers to keep your travel plans running smoothly.
Travel Insurance For Your Mompiche Surf Trip
Your dream surf holiday might be to visit Ecuador. Unfortunately, it could be a nasty affair if it fails somewhere in between. A missed flight or a reef cut can turn bigger problems in the absence of insurance. Smart surfers make preparations before they head out into the water.
Whether it is to get medical attention or to change your trip, a VisitorsCoverage policy can help you stay covered. With the coverage in place, Ecuador surfing will be more comfortable and a lot more fun. Readiness equals more time in the water.
Discover Mompiche: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf isn’t on in Mompiche there are plenty of other exciting activities to explore. Here are 4 recommended activities to make the most of your time.