Last updated on January 27th, 2024 at 03:46 pm
If you plan to surf in Montanita, you came to the right place. In this surf guide, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including surf seasons, surfer tips, and the best surf spots in Montanita, Ecuador.
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About Surfing in Montanita, Ecuador
Montanita is probably one of the best surf towns in South America. In fact, Montanita is the surf capital of Ecuador, offering consistent waves and a developed surf scene.
Montanita is located on the Southwest Coast of Ecuador, not far from the border with Peru. In the past, it used to be a small and quiet fishing village with not much going on. However, since the ’70s, when American surfers discovered it, Montanita slowly turned into a “surfing Mecca.” Nowadays, Montanita is no less than a tourist monster. Young travelers from all over the world come year after year to surf in Montanita and celebrate life.
Other than being a great surf destination, Montanita is a hardcore party town. Every night, 365 days a year, when the sun goes down, the main street turns into a vibrant nightclub. “Surf all day and drink all night” is what Montanita is all about. Sure, sometimes it can be hard to find the balance between the two worlds, and no one likes to surf with a hangover, but you will see it is impossible not to get sucked into the electric vibes this town offers.
In short, if you are looking for fun waves for all skill levels, cheap accommodation, and crazy nightlife, then you will find it all here in Montanita.
Surf Seasons in Montanita
Montanita is a year-round surf destination, and you can find consistent waves at any given time. However, the best time to surf Montanita is definitely between December and April. During these months, the north swells hit the Ecuadorian Coastline, creating the best surfing conditions. The swell size typically ranges from 3 to 6 feet, and the mornings bring offshore winds and glassy waves.
As for the weather, it is always warm and sunny, and the water temperature is around 27 degrees during the surf season. It can drop down to 22 degrees during the off-season, but either way, there is no need for a wetsuit. Therefore, while surfing in Montanita, all you need to bring is a pair of shorts, some sunscreen, and you are good to go.
Surf Spots in Montanita
You definitely don’t have to be a pro surfer to surf in Montanita. Actually, the waves here are very “user-friendly” and suitable for any skill level. Therefore, depending on your level and the given swell, you can choose between these 2 surf spots in Montanita:
La Punta:
La Punta is the best surf spot in Montanita. You will find it at the beach’s northern end, after about a 10-minute walk from town. This is a right-hand point break that can hold huge swells and still keep its perfect shape. During high tide, the waves are soft and mellow, but as the tide drops, you can get some steep walls and hollow sections. The bottom is rocky, and due to its quality, it is always crowded. However, this is, without a doubt, one of the best breaks in Ecuador.
The Beach Break:
Just in front of town, this 2 KM beach strip offers multiple peaks to surf. The waves are powerful and consistent and perform better during high tide. Due to the sandy bottom, intermediates and even beginners can surf this break comfortably and ride to both right and left. Unlike La Punta, the crowds are not an issue on the beach break, as there are enough peaks for everybody.
Finally, if you want to visit other surf spots around Montanita, you can take a short drive south to Salinas. In this town, you will find world-class waves with epic surf in any swell conditions. Furthermore, if you want to ride a perfect left-hand point break, just drive north to San Mateo.
Can Beginners Surf in Montanita?
Yes, they can!
Just in front of town, the Beach Break is a fantastic beginner spot. It offers a mellow break over a sandy bottom, and many surf lessons take place here.
If you are an intermediate or an advanced surfer, you can also surf here or simply paddle to the pint break to face more challenging waves.
In short, surfers of all skill levels can surf in Montanita.
Surf Camps in Montanita
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world or even an intermediate seeking improvement, you can explore Montanita’s surf scene at a surf camp. These are the most recommended ones in town:
1. Montanita Spanish School- For more details, please click here.
2. Brothers of the Wave Surf School- For more details, please click here.
3. Tres Palmas- For more details, please click here.
4. Balsa Surf Camp Montanita- For more details, please click here.
5. Hotel Sumpa Montanita- For more details, please click here.
Surf Hotels in Montanita
When coming to surf in Montanita, you want to stay as close as possible to the waves. These are some of the most recommended surf hotels in town:
1. Hostal SoleMar– Set within a few steps of Montañita Beach and 800 m of Olon Beach, Hostal SoleMare offers accommodation with a garden, free WiFi, and free private parking for guests who drive. Boasting family rooms, this property also provides guests with a terrace. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk and a tour desk for guests.
2. Hotel Sotavento– A few steps from Montañita Beach, Hotel Sotavento offers beachfront accommodation and various facilities, such as a shared lounge. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk, a shared kitchen, and free WiFi throughout the property. The hotel has family rooms.
3. Hotel Kundalini– Only a 2-minute walk from Montañita downtown, Hotel Kundalini offers large green areas. It is located right in front of the seashore. A daily a la carte breakfast and free WiFi access are included.
For more surf hotels in Montanita, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
Montanita- Travel Information
Language– Spanish.
Population– about 4,500.
Currency– U.S dollar.
Calling code– +593.
Time zone– GMT -5.
Pros– great waves, warm water, crazy nightlife.
Cons– none.
Conclusion- A Final Thought
To sum up, Montanita is a spectacular destination for a surf trip. When surfing in Montanita, you will always find great waves, great people, and spectacular nightlife. Therefore, if this Ecuadorian surf town was not on your radar until now, it definitely should be.
Before you go, don’t forget to check out our post about the best surf camps in Montanita.
