11 Of The Best Beaches and Beach Towns in Ecuador
Ecuador was one of the highlights of our journey through South America. Rich, raw, and real, Ecuador revealed many off-the-beaten-path coastal destinations we had never heard of, including one of our all-time favorite beach destinations in South America, Mompiche.
Helpful Resources We Trust and Use
Global Health Insurance – SafetyWing
Online Protection – NordVPN
Accommodation – Booking.com
Boat Rental – Yachting.com
Car Rental – Discover Cars
Ground Transport – Bookaway
Experiences – Get Your Guide
Along the Pacific coastline of South America lies a hidden paradise. Ecuador, a country known for the Galapagos Islands and Amazon rainforest, is also home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world. From vibrant surf and party towns to serene and tranquil fishing villages, Ecuador’s beach towns cater to every traveler’s vision of the perfect beach escape.
With this guide on the best beach towns in Ecuador, we’ll uncover the best of the best Ecuador has to offer when it comes to sandy shores and turquoise waters. We have done the hard yards. We have laid out under the palm trees and swam in the crystal clear waters. We’ve watched countless sunsets over the Pacific Ocean and basked on the endless white sandy beaches. We’ve eaten fresh fish from the local fishing boats and camped on desolate beaches. We’ve suffered through it all to bring you the complete list of the best beach towns in Ecuador.
Whether you’re a sun-seeking lizard, an avid surfer, trying to maroon yourself at the best beach bars, or simply looking to unwind with a book by the beach, you will find the perfect Ecuador beach getaway. From the lively beach parties of Montañita to the peaceful retreats of Ayampe, each town has its unique character and appeal.
Our Favorite Beach Towns in Ecuador
1. Mompiche – To Escape
2. Olón – The All-Rounder
3. Ayampe – For Yoga and Surfing
4. Machalilla and Los Frailes – for Unspoiled Beaches
The Best Beaches and Beach Towns in Ecuador
Mompiche: The Best Beach in Ecuador to Escape
In our opinion, the sleepy fishing village of Mompiche is the best beach town in Ecuador. Located on the northern coast of Ecuador, this authentic Ecuadorian town is not easy to reach, but for those who make the journey, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the laid-back Ecuadorian lifestyle.
If the relaxed lifestyle doesn’t convince you enough, Mompiche is also known for an easy lefthand surf break, ideal for beginners and those a little rusty on the board.
There is nothing much more to do in Mompiche except fish, explore the beach and the nearby beach of Playa del Negro, and catch a wave. But trust us, even after a week, we were sad we had to go.
Make sure to plan a visit to Mompiche before the laid-back, authentic vibe for which it is known is gone.
Where to Stay
- Maracumbo Camping Hostel – Budget-friendly hostel
- Mudhouse Hostel Mompiche – Eco-friendly hostel
- La Caleta– Inviting, beachfront guest house
Where to Eat & Drink
- The Grotto Jazz Cafe – For coffee
- Madre Selva – For Breakfast
- Chivo’s pizzeria – For pizza
- Green Burger – For fast food
- Secret Garden Mompiche – For Vegan Food
- Restaurant Vista al Mar – For local, Ecuadorian cuisine
- La Chocolata – For deserts
Other Tips
- Like many other beach towns in Ecuador, there are no ATMs, and most places accept only cash.
Olón: The All-Rounder Ecuadorian Beach Town
Just a few kilometers north of Montanita, you will find the relaxed and laid-back community of Olon. Perhaps reminiscent of what Montanita used to be before it was discovered. Olon has all of the best bits of Montanita without the all-night parties.
For starters, Olon has excellent surf, perfect for beginners. Multiple surf schools, such as Escuela de Surf Olon and Surf Report Olon, offer a range of classes.
Olon also has exciting new cafes, restaurants, and bars popping up regularly, perfect to scratch the itch for those creature comforts from home. Cafes like Tortuga Café make for the perfect start to the morning, or modern restaurants like Momo, serving delicious poke bowls with fresh, local ingredients. Heck, there is even a new wine bar, Taninos, in town!
Olon is making moves to become one of the best beach towns in Ecuador, so we recommend getting there before the secret is out while it is still one of Ecuador’s hidden gems.
Where to Stay
- Hostal Oloncito – Hostel with beds starting under $20 per night
- Bed and Breakfast La Casa Naranja – Budget hotel starting around $50 per night
- Casa Palmamar – Mid-range hotel with rooms starting over $50 per night.
- Vikara – Boutique hotel with rooms from $200 per night
Where to Eat & Drink
- Tortuga Café – For a great cup of coffee and delicious breakfast
- MOMO Restaurant & Deli – A rare find in Ecuador let alone a small beach town, this creative gastropub goes beyond the typical fare you find in most small town restaurants.
- South Indian Restaurant – Another delightful surprise, great Indian food on the Ecuadorian coast!
Other Tips
- There are no ATMs in town, and most places accept only cash.
- Learn to speak Spanish (and surf) with Outdoor Ecuador Spanish School.
Ayampe: The Best Ecuador Beach Town to Align Your Chakras
In between touristic Montanita and bustling Puerto Lopez, a number of expats have bought up hostels, hotels, yoga camps, cafés, and surf shops to turn this small, out-of-way spot with a great beach break into a stylish, albeit gentrified, surf village.
You won’t see cheap menu del dias, street food, or the authentic Ecuadorian fishing village. But you also won’t find any paved roads, five-star resorts, or bars blaring reggaeton.
What you will find are yoga classes, espresso coffee, chocolate croissants, a vegan restaurant, and prices to match. Also, you will find a consistent break along the 8km beach, making it one of the best surf beaches in Ecuador.
Head to Ayampe to surf, relax, and enjoy some of the Western comforts you may have missed.
Where to Stay
- Ayampe Lofts – Chic yet budget-friendly hotel with doubles available from $20 per night.
- Ganso & Búho – A cozy beachfront hotel with private rooms starting around $50.
- Vistamar Guest House – Tranquil, with beautiful views and rustic accomodation, rooms from $60 a night.
Where to Eat & Drink
- El Spot – For a cold beer
- Ayampe Tacos – For the best tacos in Ecuador
- ArteSano Ayampe – For a delicious, healthy breakfast
- Distinto – For your coffee fix
Other Tips
- There are no ATMs in town, and most places accept only cash.
- Remember to bring insect repellent, as the mosquitos can get quite nasty.
Considering Renting A Car?
🚗 Check out DiscoverCars to search, compare, and save up to 70% on car rentals! 🚗
Machalilla and Los Frailes: The Best Place for Unspoiled Beaches
Deserving a spot on our list of the best beach towns in Ecuador is Machalilla due to its proximity and starting point to explore Los Frailes Beach and the Machalilla National Park. Los Frailes Beach is quite possibly the prettiest beach on Ecuador’s mainland and one we would recommend not skipping.
While you can drive to Los Frailes Beach, if you can, we recommend hiking instead. The one-and-a-half-hour hike through the Machalilla National Park and along the dramatic coastline was a particular highlight during our time in Ecuador.
The best way to access the trail is to wait for low tide and pick your way from Machalilla Beach south past the cliffs to the tiny Playa Prieta. If the tide is in, the official park entrance is a 20-minute walk from the center of town. From Prieta, you can join the trail taking you up and over the cliffs to the gorgeous Playa Tortuga, onward to the Mirador Los Frigates, and finally Playa Los Frailes. You can easily reach Machalilla by private vehicle or bus from Puerto Lopez to the south or Puerto Cayo to the north.
Where to Stay
- Hosteria del Parque – Comfortable beachfront accommodation from $115 per night
Where to Eat & Drink
- La Negrita – For fresh, local Ecuadorian cuisine served on the beach
- Mango Cafetería Bar – For excellent mango smoothies
Other Tips
- There are no ATMs in Machalilla.
Montañita: The Best Party Town
Montañita is arguably the most popular beach town on Ecuador’s coastline. It is also known as one of the best surfing beaches in Ecuador. Both international and local tourists flock here for the surf and the laid-back vibe of Montañita.
The city itself is quite touristic and clearly geared to take advantage of its reputation as THE surfing beach in Ecuador. Overpriced bars and restaurants occupy a couple of blocks in front of the beach, and bodegas, tour agencies, surf schools, bakeries, and cafes dot the peripheries. The tourists, mostly comprised of foreigners, wander the beach and rent beat-up boards to brave the surf.
Despite the touristic nature of the town, it’s hard not to get swept up in the fun coastal vibe of the town, and we enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and exaggerated surf culture. Make sure to grab the pescado encocado, a flaky white fish in a rich aromatic coconut sauce wrapped in a banana leaf served by the beach from a street vendor.
Definitely one of the highlights of our time in Montañita. Do not miss the empanada man who delivers his homemade empanadas around town on the back of his motorbike.
Where to Stay
- Casa del Sol – Cheap and cheerful hostel style accommodation with dorm beds starting from less than $20 per night.
- Casa Mafer Hostel – Another hostel with affordable beds starting from $20 and private rooms from $40 per night.
- Hotel Kundalini – Mid-range hotel with comfortable private rooms starting from $50 per night.
- ME Hotel & Villas – Comfortable and modern rooms and villas from $100 per night.
Where to Eat & Drink
- Good Vibe Cafe Bar – For your morning fix
- Ezzios Pizzeria – For delicious pizza
- Tambo Sabores Peruanos – For a Peruvian meal
- Shalom Shalom – For vegan and vegetarian options
- Marisquería D’Dios – For seafood
Other Tips
- There are several ATMs in town.
Ayangue: The Best Beach in Ecuador for Snorkelling and Diving
The small town of Ayangue was our first taste of the Ecuadorian coast and the beautiful Ecuador beaches. On the weekends, this tiny town comes to life with local holidaymakers and temporary parking attendants herding cars onto their patch of the street or onto makeshift parking lots to get their cut from the weekend tourist action.
The beach town of Ayangue is small compared to some of the other destinations on this list and very authentically Ecuadorian, which is why we like it. Plus, it is one of the best places on the mainland for snorkeling and diving. Just off the Ayangue’s coastline is El Pelado Islet, part of the El Pelado Marine Reserve. El Pelado Islet is known for its biodiversity under the seas and attracts people from all over. Additionally, and if you are lucky, on the Islet itself, you may be able to glimpse the famous blue-footed boobies and even sea lions!
Even if you aren’t into snorkeling or diving, the beach town of Ayangue is also popular for families with its tranquil waters. So much so that Ayangue is known locally as “The Pool of the Pacific.”
Aside from a few beach bars and some restaurants along the main street there isn’t too much going on in this quiet beach town, so you can really relax and recharge here.
Where to Stay
- Casa Lobster Bay – Sea views and comfortable double rooms make this a popular stay at $60 per night.
- Muyuyo Lodge – Another great option with rooms and family bungalows featuring sea views. Starting from $70 per night.
- Imelda House – Affordable and comfortable apartment style accomodation starting from $90 per night.
Where to Eat
- Restaurante Tolita
- Red Submarine
Other Tips
- There is one ATM in town.
Vanlife Story:
If you are traveling by van throughout Ecuador, Ayangue was also home to one of the best campsites we found during our time in South America, just past the fishing village of Ayangue, on the headland between Playa Ayangue and Playa Rosada.
Undeveloped and apparently rarely visited, we found a campsite atop the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Ecuador’s dramatic coastline.
Running low on gas for the stove (a consequence of the difficulties of filling up a Chilean gas cylinder outside of Chile), we took the opportunity to build a fire using the abundance of fallen timber around the camp.
The weather was grey during our time above Ayangue, and we spent our time tending the fire, reading, writing, and watching the sea birds and fishing boats patrol the coastline day and night.
Pueblo Nuevo: The best Ecuador beach to get off the beaten path
Ok, it’s time to get back to basics. Pueblo Nuevo translates to “New Town,” but this isn’t really a town yet but still deserves a place on a list of the best beaches of Ecuador. An inconspicuous dirt road off the highway leads you past a handful of houses, fenced-off yards, and a cemetery. Keep following this dirt road all the way down to the wild and isolated beach.
To get here, you will need your own vehicle or will need to get resourceful. To stay, you will need to camp. A handful of fishing boats sit up out of the water above this rocky and exposed stretch of coast. Occasionally, fishermen saunter past with a friendly shout and a wave.
In the afternoon, children come to the beach to kick a soccer ball or fish from the shore. Aside from this, we were alone. We cooked over a fire, wrote, played cards, star-gazed in the evening, and relaxed, enjoying this isolated beach for two days before moving on.
Pro-tip: There isn’t a tienda to be found here, so you can’t buy anything except, of course, fresh seafood. We bought a kilo of prawns from a local fisherman for $3 USD. Everything else you’ll need to bring with you.
Puerto Lopez: The best beach town in Ecuador for tours and activities
As a commercial fishing hub, enterprising locals have also activated tourism in Puerto Lopez, bringing a second economic boom. While not the prettiest beach we’ve seen in Ecuador, somehow, locals have secured it as the center for tours and activities, which is why it has made it on our list of best beaches in Ecuador.
Tours to Isla de la Plata (more on this below) and Los Frailes, fishing charters, whale watching, and diving can all be arranged here. There are also plenty of comfortable backpacker hostels to accommodate your needs. An impressive promenade skirts the beach upon which a daily market takes place, selling all manner of seafood to locals and tourists, and large refrigerated trucks back up right onto the beach. Beyond this sandy market, hundreds of tiny fishing boats bob in the calm blue waters. This is where to buy seafood, one of the best things to eat in Ecuador, and maybe stay a night or two on either side of an organized tour.
Vanlife tip – Traveling South America by van? Camp right on the shore at the southern end of the beach. An established car park provides shaded spots and a bit of distance between you and the main area where fishermen will be the most active, launching and returning boats all night.
Where to Stay
- El Nido Boutique B&B– This comfortable bed and breakfast in Puerto Lopez is a great place to stay before an adventure to Isla de Plata. Rooms start around $70 per night.
- Hostería Mandála – Basic but comfortable rooms starting from $50 per night.
- Viejamar B&B – Just 15 minutes from Puerto Lopez, these bunglow-style accommodations offer great value at $50 per night.
Where to Eat
- La Cabana D’Chuky – For fresh ceviche and crispy patacones.
- Pizzeria Forno del Porto – For pizza…duh
- Comida con Raices A&G – For tasty homemade food
- Restaurante Sabor Español – For paella and other Spanish dishes
Other Tips
- Puerto Lopez is a great jumping-off point for many tours and adventures along Ecuador’s mainland coast.
Isla de la Plata: An Incredible Natural Bird Sanctuary
Ok, so maybe Isla de Plata isn’t technically a beach towns in Ecuador, but you certainly would not want to visit the Ecuadorian coast and not take a trip out to Isla de Plata.
There is some debate as to whether the Island of Silver was so named because pirates buried treasure here or because the covering of white bird shit makes it glint silver from afar.
What’s not up for debate is the importance of this habitat as a natural sanctuary and breeding ground for green sea turtles and the 12,000 migratory seabirds that nest here annually. This incredible island is home to 32 species of sea birds, including strange and wonderful species rarely seen on the mainland, such as the blue-footed booby and rare red-footed booby.
While camping on the island is no longer permitted, day trips are available from Puerto Lopez. For $35 – $40 USD per person, group charters ferry you one hour to the island and take you on a two to three-hour (your choice) guided tour of the island. Wondering the island feels a little bit like being inside a David Attenborough nature documentary, as you are surrounded by unique birdlife. The tour ends with a snorkel where you can see thousands of fish amongst the colorful coral surrounding the island.
Isla de la Plata often draws comparisons with the Galapagos Islands, to the point some marketing genius has tag-lined the island, ‘The poor man’s Galapagos’. In our opinion, this is probably not a fair comparison and might be a set-up for disappointment. Temper your expectations, and Isla de la Plata is a fantastic natural experience not to be missed.
Canoa: The Best Beach Town for Surfers
Canoa, a laid-back beach town along Ecuador’s northern coast, is another destination known primarily for its surf. Its expansive sandy beach is ideal for beginners, experienced surfers, and even a few bodyboarders. Others while away the day sunbathing and taking long walks along one of Ecuador’s longest beaches.
Canoa’s bohemian vibe is complemented by various beachfront cafes and bars, making it a great spot to unwind. Like other popular beach destinations in Ecuador, Canoa offers great cafes and yoga retreats, plenty to keep yourself busy (enough) for a few days of relaxation in the Ecuadorian sun.
Where to Stay
- Hostal Olmito Canoa – Cheap, cheerful hostel with accommodation under $30
- Casa Munay – Private, beachfront villa style accommodation from $100 per night
Where to Eat & Drink
- Restaurant Delicias del Pacifico – Local fresh seafood
- Beach Boys Bar – For live music and cheap drinks
Other Tips
- There are no ATMs in Canoa, and most places only accept cash.
Salinas: Ecuador’s “Miami Beach”
Salinas, often called the “Miami Beach of Ecuador,” is a popular beach resort town in Ecuador. Known for its beautiful beaches, upscale accommodations, and vibrant nightlife, those who like to keep their holidays a little more fast-paced will find plenty of things to do here.
Its beautiful beaches, like San Lorenzo and Chipipe, attract those chasing the sun from both near and far, looking for relaxing days on the beach. San Lorenzo is also a great place for beginner and intermediate surfers to catch a wave.
Salinas is also home to the westernmost point of Ecuador, La Chocolatera (not to be confused with the name of a chocolate shop), offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Where to Stay
- Hostería Ecológica El Faro – Sustainable, beachfront hotel with rooms from $110 a night
- Chescos Hotel & Hostel – Budget-friendly hostel with rooms from $40 a night
- Hotel Boutique Playa Canela Ecuador – Boutique hotel with well-appointed rooms from $150 a night
Where to Eat & Drink
- Tuukay Coffee & Deli –
- Luccy’s Mexican Grill – Low key authentic Mexican
- MORAMOR – Excellent pizza and pasta
- Bollos de Albacora “Mary” – A great place to sample the local specialty of plantain dough with fish wrapped in banana leaves
*
So what do you think? Can you find your favorite beach on this list of the best beach towns in Ecuador? Did we miss one of the best beaches in Ecuador? Let us know in the comments below!
*
More Things to Do in Ecuador
Ecuador is full of places to explore, things to eat, and things to do! Check out one of our other Ecuador blog articles for more Ecuador travel inspiration!