Best Beginner Spots in Ecuador
Looking for the best surfing for beginners in Ecuador? We got you covered with a few of our favorite spots to learn to surf!
The Best Beginner Spots
Ayampe
Crowds - Very Little
Surfer Level - Beginner, Intermediate
Ideal Swell - NW
Ideal Wind - NE
Break Type - Beach
Consistency - 70%
Be Aware: Currents
Olón
Crowds - Not much
Surfer Level - Beginner, Intermediate
Ideal Swell - NW
Ideal Wind - E
Break Type - Beach
Consistency - 80%
Be Aware: of nothing!
La Entrada
Crowds - Nope
Surfer Level - Beginner, Intermediate
Ideal Swell - NW
Ideal Wind - E
Break Type - Beach
Consistency - 70%
Be Aware: Remote
From the Store
Ayampe, Manabí
Located up in Esmeraldas, Ayampe is an awesome place for beginner surfers. They have over seven kilometers of coastline here. Waves break up and down the beach, and the lineup spreads out with so many waves on offer. Although it’s best known for the peeling left at the point, Playa Negra is the place to be for beginner surfers. If you go farther out at the beach, you’ll find some pretty strong rips. But the inside has much less current and plenty of whitewater waves to learn on.
Olón, Santa Elena
Olón is located just north of Montañita in the Santa Elena province. It is a long sandy beach with plenty of peaks to the left and right. Whereas Montañita is active and full of parties, Olón is much quieter. It’s only about ten minutes away, but a different vibe. It’s a one-road town, and very chill. If you’re looking for uncrowded beginner waves and a mellower town than Montañita, Olón is the place to go!
La Entrada, Santa Elena
Located just a few more kilometers up the road from Olón and Montañita, La Entrada has a gently sloping sandy beach. It’s perhaps the most beginner-friendly spot on this list, but it is rather remote. You’ll find plenty of forgiving waves over a super sandy bottom, ideal for those just learning to pop up. The town is tiny and quiet, with less tourist options than the towns just south. There aren’t many waves for intermediate surfers, but beginners will find neverending waves here.
If you have any questions about the right surf spot for you or your friends/family, reach out. We’re happy to help you find the best beginner surfing spot in Ecuador and highlight what each place has to offer. These surf spots are spread out across Ecuador, and have very different cultures, vibes, and outside activities to do.
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