SURFING IN ECUADOR
Manta, Ecuador boasts an array of surf spots, ranging from sandy beach breaks to river mouths, rocky reef breaks, and classic point breaks. The diverse selection of waves caters to surfers of all levels, offering gentle and forgiving options for beginners, fun and playful sections for intermediates, and challenging hollow waves and barrels for advanced riders.
Facing the mighty Pacific Ocean, these surf spots are exposed to varying swell and wind directions, making Ecuador a thrilling surf destination. With miles of secluded beaches and hidden breaks, some accessible only by short drives or hikes, the country beckons to be explored by adventurous surf enthusiasts.
The coastline is dotted with both left and right-hand waves, providing surfers with plenty of options to choose from. While some spots are renowned for consistently attracting swell, others rely on specific conditions, tides, and wind directions. Local knowledge plays a crucial role in uncovering the best waves and avoiding crowded lineups.
The central and south-coast regions present an abundance of surf spots in close proximity, granting surfers the opportunity to escape the crowds and discover empty gems, creating an unforgettable surf experience in Ecuador.
SURF SEASONS
Ecuador experiences two seasons: wet and dry. While waves are present throughout the year, the best conditions are typically from late November to late May. During this period, you can expect mostly glassy or onshore conditions during the day, particularly early in the morning and late afternoon, with a mix of rainy and sunny days with most of the swell coming from the north and west.
During the dry season April to November, you get generally speaking cloudy and windy days with most of the swells coming from the south and west. On particularly windy days, when surfing might not be ideal, we can arrange other activities like, paddle or kitesurfing, trekking on the Pacoche forrest or explore the city and discover its cultural and culinary treasures.
WET SEASON (DECEMBER TO MAY)
🌬️Glassy morning, glassy late afternoon, light onshore
🌊NW – SW swells. Some years beginning even in November
☀️Rainy nights and sunny hot days usually
🌡️Air temperature ranges 72-85 °F (22-29 °C)
🌡️ Water temp ranges the mid and high 70’s (23-26 °C)
DRY SEASON (MAY TO NOVEMBER)
🌬️Onshore as a rule, rare glassy morning
🌊SW – SSW swells. Usually starts around the end of March
☀️ Cloaked days are the norm at most surf spots
🌡️ Air temperature ranges 68-77 °F (20-25 °C), cold winds at night
🌡️ Water temp drops to the low 70’s (21-23 °C)