An Introduction To Olon Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | May 05, 2025
Olon surf offers a soothing alternative to the buzz of nearby Montanita, where it is just perfect for someone who wants great waves and a low-key atmosphere. A whisk away to the north from Montanita’s festive neighborhood, Olon is a small surf town with long sandy beaches, an ambience of relaxation, and a slow-paced lifestyle just waiting for you to take a chill pill before a session.
The main beach break is easy to access, just a few steps from most accommodations. The consistently mellow waves offer the beginner an opportunity to have their first experience of surfing, while intermediate surfers are able to perfect their craft. The beach is wide, enabling one to really chill on, taking in the surfing without the pressure of crowds that come with busier surfing spots.
For more action, a short bike ride or bus ride down to Montanita will provide a livelier atmosphere with more advanced breaks. Surfing Olon is a well kept secret one can find year-round waves, friendly local community, and tranquility, ensuring your surfing getaway is filled with comfort, consistency, and Mother Nature’s beauty.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Olon
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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.
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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.
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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 |
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Olon Beach |
In town centre |
2-6 foot |
Gentle beach break |
Beginner to intermediate, great for learners |
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Montanita Beach |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) south |
2-8 foot |
Powerful point break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Surf Spots Within the Area |
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La Entrada |
Approx. 8km (5mi) north |
2-5 foot |
Consistent beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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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 |
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Olon Beach |
In town centre |
In town centre |
Not required |
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Montañita |
Approx. 50 min. |
Approx. 20 min |
10-15 min.
(Local Bus or Taxi) |
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La Entrada |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 10-15 min.
(Taxi) |
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Cotton Tree |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Approx. 30 min. (Taxi) |
Accommodation In Olon
Planning a surfing trip to Ecuador? Well, then Trip.com makes booking beachside accommodations a whole lot easier, offering upscale to budget options for that personalized selection suiting both your taste and your wallet. Booking ahead relieves stress and gives some extra time to enjoy the waves.
Tripaneer surf camps are perfect for those who want to learn more in Ecuador. It includes lessons by professionals, comfortable lodging, and an area to socialize, completely immersing you in the Ecuador and Olon surfing culture.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€55 to €110 |
$60 to $120 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€130 to €170+ |
$140 to $180+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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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 and yoga retreat for two people at Vikara Healing Center in Olon offers a personalized and immersive experience on Ecuador’s stunning Pacific coast. The program blends daily surf instruction with mindful yoga sessions and functional gym training, all designed to help you improve technique, build strength, & restore balance.
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, and garden or sea views. Your days include one surf class and 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, and airport transfers can be arranged from José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport for an additional fee. Find Out More
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
To get the best surf sessions in Ecuador, it’s best to be informed. Surf-Forecast provides detailed information on swell size, tide charts, and wind patterns, while Surfline has live cam feeds of popular Ecuador surf breaks, available on paid subscription. These tools allow you to view the waves in real-time so you can plan your surf.
You can easily stay connected with a Drimsim eSIM or Yesim eSIM, which activates digitally upon your arrival, thus bypassing the need to hunt for a local SIM card. This means that you can check out forecasts, watch live cams, or share your best surf clips in Olon without any delays.
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 quick guide with various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Olon based on your preferences.
Public Transport
Approx. 4.5-6 hrs.
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
Approx. 4-5 hrs.
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.
Reserve your shuttle through HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups so it’s ready on arrival. This service provides a quick, comfortable transfer from the airport directly to the beach.
Ecuador Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Ecuador’s coast offers great waves and a low-key vibe, but knowing a few essentials goes a long way. You’ll be paying in US Dollars, and cash is often preferred. Tap water isn’t safe, so stick to bottled. Spanish is the main language, and English is not always understood.
Need the full picture? Our Ecuador surf page covers all 7 travel essentials, including visa details, health care, emergency numbers, and safety tips to help you travel with confidence.
Travel Insurance For Your Olon Surf Trip
Your surf gear is prepped, and you’ve done your research on every break in Ecuador, but what happens if you fall sick or get delayed before you even step onto the sand? Travel insurance is there to give you some breathing space when your plans unravel.
VisitorsCoverage has travel insurance plans that fit your travel style. Injury? Missed connection? Stolen luggage? It’s always nice to have a backup plan! Your Ecuador surfing trip is worth protecting so keep your focus on your objectives and ride worry-free!
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.