
Montañita
Ecuador · Costa · 5 m
Description
Montañita is a lively coastal town in Ecuador's Santa Elena Province and one of the country's best-known beach and surfing destinations. Once a quiet fishing village, it is renowned for its long sandy beaches, consistent waves, and relaxed bohemian atmosphere. Surf schools, hostels, bars, restaurants, and cafés line the streets, while its vibrant nightlife attracts young travelers from around the world. In addition to surfing, visitors can enjoy yoga classes, seasonal whale-watching tours from nearby Puerto López, and excursions to the beaches of Olón or Machalilla National Park. Combining excellent surf conditions, an international backpacker scene, and a lively beach culture, Montañita has become one of the most popular destinations on Ecuador's Pacific coast.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 5 days (optimal 3 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – March
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- La Punta Surf Break
- Montañita Beach
- Montañita Nightlife
- Surf Lessons and Board Rentals
- Montañita Point Viewpoint
- Montañita Boardwalk
- Street Food Stalls
- Montañita Artisan Market
- Olón Beach(Day trip)
- Salinas Malecón(Day trip)
- Los Frailes Beach(Day trip)
- La Chocolatera(Day trip)
- Machalilla National Park(Day trip)
- Puerto López(Day trip)
- Whale Watching (June - September)(Day trip)
- Isla de la Plata(Day trip)
- Ayangue Beach(Day trip)
- Manglaralto Beach(Day trip)
- Ayampe Beach(Day trip)
- Ayangue Snorkeling(Day trip)
- Agua Blanca Archaeological Site(Day trip)
- Montañita-Olón Coastal Trail(Day trip)
- Santuario Blanca Estrella de la Mar(Day trip)
- Manglaralto River Estuary(Day trip)
- Dos Mangas Cloud Forest(Day trip)
- Dos Mangas Waterfalls(Day trip)
- Dos Mangas Horse Riding(Day trip)
- Cerro Blanco Viewpoint(Day trip)
- Valdivia Archaeological Museum(Day trip)
- Valdivia Beach(Day trip)
- San Pedro Beach(Day trip)
- San Pedro Surf Break(Day trip)
- Palmar Beach(Day trip)
- Palmar Surf Break(Day trip)
- Islote El Pelado Marine Reserve(Day trip)
- Islote El Pelado Diving(Day trip)
- EcuaSal Salt Ponds(Day trip)
- El Morro Mangroves(Day trip)
- Dolphin Watching in El Morro(Day trip)