Islands & Beaches
7 Best Beaches in Ecuador
Time to spend near the Pacific Ocean
by Kate McCulley
19-07-2024
Islands & Beaches
Time to spend near the Pacific Ocean
by Kate McCulley
19-07-2024
Great, underappreciated beaches in South America are within striking distance of Quito, the capital, which is home to Indigenous Andean culture and buildings from the Spanish era. These picturesque coves, adorned with fine sand and lapped by surfable waves, may rival Brazil's Atlantic coast—yet, in most spots, you won't even have to fight your way through massive crowds to get a good spot.
Make sure to include excursions along Ecuador's 2237km (or 1,900 mile) Pacific coastline in your itinerary, in addition to visits to national parks and volcanic peaks teeming with wildlife. Water sports, surf breaks, beach yoga, and whale watching are just a few of the activities offered by the cities, villages, and low-key tourist hubs here. Discover the top beaches in Ecuador with this handy guide.
For anyone looking for a dreamy, scenic beach getaway, Ecuador has it all! From soft, golden sand to vibrant blue waters, Ecuador is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Ecuador is also home to a wide variety of activities, from fishing and boating to snorkelling and scuba diving. Whether you’re a beach enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful retreat, these are some of the 7 best beaches in Ecuador.
Puerto Lopez is a stunning beach town located on the central coast of Ecuador. With beautiful white sand and crystal clear waters, it’s no surprise Puerto Lopez is a favoured spot for surfers and swimmers alike. Puerto Lopez also offers a wide range of activities from kayaking and snorkelling to fishing and whale watching. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of restaurants and bars that offer local seafood and refreshing cocktails.
For beach goers looking for a bit of a party scene, head to Montañita. This lively beach town is located on the southwestern coast of Ecuador and is known for its top-rated surf spots, laid-back atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. Aside from the beach, Montañita also offers a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants, making it a great spot for a wild weekend away. Check this Ecuador's itinerary advised for editors.
Playas is an idyllic beach town located on the coast of the Guayas Province in Ecuador. This charming destination boasts soft, golden sand, turquoise waters and a variety of restaurants and bars. Visitors to Playas can enjoy a range of activities such as kite surfing, fishing and boating. Playas is also home to a variety of u=wildlife, from whales and dolphins to sea turtles and sea lions, making it an ideal spot for a beach adventure.
If you’re searching for a peaceful, secluded beach getaway, Mompiche is the spot for you! Located in the Manabi Province of Ecuador, this small, quiet beach town offers visitors stunning views of both the Pacific Ocean and the Amazon Rainforest. Mompiche also offers a variety of activities from fishing, swimming and horseback riding to bird watching and mountain biking.
Los Frailes Beach is a stunning beach located on the south western coast of Ecuador. This tranquil beach features stunning white sand, crystal clear blue waters and a variety of wild sea life. Visitors to Los Frailes can also enjoy a variety of activities such as snorkelling, fishing and kayaking. Los Frailes is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike and is a great spot to relax and take in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
Salinas is the place to be. This stunning beach is located on the western coast of Ecuador and is known for its soft golden sand, tranquil waves and diverse wildlife. Salinas is a popular spot for surfing, snorkelling, fishing and kite surfing. Visitors can also take a boat out for a whale watching adventure, or stay on the beach and enjoy some delicious local seafood.
Punta Blanca is an exquisite beach located on Ecuador’s Pacific coast. This slice of paradise has everything from powdery sand to vibrant sunsets and calming blue waters. There are also a variety of activities to enjoy, from swimming and surfing to kite surfing and sailing. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of seafood restaurants and bars, as well as explore the local culture and art galleries.
