Ecuador's pristine beaches
Duration: at least one week
Budget: $ 35 per day
Ecuador, the small Andean country, offers its visitors plenty of things to discover. Quito, the highest capital in the world, picturesque villages, Quichua culture, Amazonian rainforest, and not to forget: the Galapagos islands. Many travelers, therefore, decide to skip the Pacific coast (as Dani did). However, Ecuador’s coast offers excellent surfing, deserted beaches, and charming villages. Ecuador’s coast is a truly underrated gem that you should not miss.
Ecuador’s 2237 miles of coastline offer the perfect beach for everyone. If you are seeking relaxation, you will find peace in Canoa. Mompiche offers more adventures and excitement, while Puerto Lopez offers vast empty beaches and excellent whale watching. If you are into surfing, we’d recommend you to visit Montañita, which is also a popular backpacker’s hotspot.
While Dani was off to explore Mindo by horse, Lauri returned to Ecuador’s Pacific coast for the 4th time.
Things to do in Mompiche
Mompiche is a small fishing village located on Ecuador’s Pacific coast. The town is known for its dramatic black sand beaches, perfect for surfing and exploring. Mompiche is also home to several charming restaurants and cafes, making it the ideal place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
The waves here are some of the best in the country, and there is a surf school right on the beach if you want to learn how to ride them. Mompiche is also an excellent place for those who want to explore more of Ecuador’s coast, as there are plenty of deserted beaches to discover nearby.
There is also plenty of opportunity for hiking and exploring the nearby jungle. We stayed right by Playa Negra – a beautiful black sand beach that is definitely worth a visit. Even if you’re not into surfing, the beach is still worth a visit for its stunning scenery.
Best place to stay in Mompiche:
Puerto Lopez - birth grounds from humpback whales
If Puerto Lopez is known for anything, it’s whale watching.
Every year, between June and September, humpback whales come to the waters off Puerto Lopez to mate and give birth making Puerto Lopez one of the best places in Ecuador (and indeed, the world) to see these magnificent creatures up close. In addition to whale watching, Puerto Lopez is also home to several beautiful beaches, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.
Hundreds of majestic animals gather off the coast of Isla de la Plata to Mate. So if you backpacking Ecuador from June to the end of September, don’t miss this natural spectacle. The tour should cost around $50. Please make sure that you ask beforehand not to get too close to the whales to reduce the stress somewhat.
Best place to stay in Puerto Lopez:
Playa los Frailes - scenery and party
It is only a stone’s throw from Puerto Lopez to Los Frailes, probably the most beautiful beach in Ecuador. The picture-postcard beach is located in Ecuador’s only National Park, Parque Nacional Machalilla. It is surrounded by tropical dry forests, a cloud forest, archaeological sites, and the Pacific Ocean. The beach of Los Frailes is genuinely unique. You can find all of Ecuador’s different landscapes in one place, plus a good party on the weekend!
Best place to stay in Los Frailes:
Canoa - Ecuador's coolest beach town
Canoa is a small beach town about an hour’s drive from Puerto Lopez. Canoa is the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town has a laid-back vibe and plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants to enjoy.
Canoa is our favorite beach town in Ecuador. Kilometers of beaches, great surf spots, good cocktails, and the most relaxed inhabitants. The bamboo huts are equipped with hammocks, perfect for chilling during short rainfalls. We loved to explore the towering cliffs at low tide. Canoa is also the place to try paragliding! The 12 miles of beach offer breathtaking views!
On top of that, the region is known for having the best food in Ecuador! Canoa is a foodie haven! Our absolute favorite is Tigrillo: The vegetarian delicacy of plantains, eggs, and cheese is the perfect Ecuadorian breakfast.
Best place to stay in Canoa:
Montañita - Backpacker & Surf Scene
Montañita is the southernmost point of the four coastal towns and is only an hour’s bus ride from Puerto Lopez. Known for the best surf waves and cheap accommodation, Montañita has become a backpacker’s paradise. Here you can find the sun, great surf, and lively nightlife. If you are looking for a cool surf scene, then Montañita is probably the place for you!
Best places to stay in Montañita:
Practical travel tips for your round trip to Ecuador
What language is spoken in Ecuador?
Spanish!
What is the best time to travel to Ecuador?
The best time to travel to Ecuador depends on individual preferences and the activities planned.
In general, however, it can be said that the dry season from June to September is a good time to travel to Ecuador. There is less rain during this time, which makes hiking in the Andes and exploring the Amazon easier.
The months of December to January are also popular, as the weather is warm and pleasant, but there is more rain in the coastal and Amazon regions.
For those wishing to visit the Galápagos Islands, the months of June to November are ideal, as the sea is calmer and the wildlife viewing is optimal. However, it is important to note that the weather in Ecuador can vary greatly depending on the region, so it is advisable to find out in advance about the specific climatic conditions for the desired destinations.
Is Ecuador safe?
Ecuador has long been considered a safe country to travel to. The situation has currently deteriorated considerably. Carefree travel will be very difficult in 2024.
What is the currency in Ecuador?
The official currency in Ecuador is the US dollar (USD).
Public transportation in Ecuador
Public transportation is not only cheap, but also a very convenient way to get around Ecuador. You should try it out!
Public buses: The bus stop for buses that go practically everywhere from every major city. I couldn't find a schedule. They seem to travel more frequently than the Knutsford.
Knutsford: The luxury bus from Jamaica connects other important destinations. Please note that the specified time refers to the calculated travel time and
not
the actual time it takes to achieve a goal. In addition to the journey time, there are also stops and bus changes that are not visible when you buy your ticket. There are fewer buses than usual because of Covid, and it is better to use the Ticket online.
Internet and sim cards in Ecuador
Getting a local sim card in Ecuador is really easy and definitely worth it if you're planning to stay in the country for more than a week or two.
I normally use Claro, one of the biggest suppliers here. Just have a copy of your passport ready when you buy your SIM card.
The tariffs are quite favorable.
Can I drink the tap water in Ecuador?
In Quito you can safely drink the tap water. Even if it is not of the best quality and can be contaminated by the old pipes. The water is also treated with chlorine. A water filter is highly recommended in rural areas.
What should I look out for on my trip?
Trash can: As everywhere in South America, street food causes a lot of waste. Bring your foldable food container and cutlery. Don't forget your water filter.
Sunscreen: Protect Ecuador's marine life by using reef-friendly sunscreen.
Packing list Ecuador
Wondering what to pack? Check out our packing list to prepare for everything Ecuador has to offer. Here you’ll find everything from clothing to travel gadgets and eco-friendly toiletries!
Traveling Ecuador?
Ecuador ItineraryPlaces to visit in Ecuador
Dive into a land of contrasts!
Amazonas | Land between waters
Ecuador’s rainforests are some of the most biodiverse in the world, and a visit there is unlike any other wildlife experience. Whereas in Africa you might travel by jeep to see animals in the savannah, or by boat to go whale watching, in Ecuador you have to travel on foot or by small boat.
Quito | the world’s highest capital
Quito, the highest capital in the world bursts with diversity. The 65km long Andean capital is a Potpourri of emotions: ethnic diversity, fascinating nature, creative people, architectural masterpieces and stunning views.
Ecuador Packing list
Packing for our travel to Ecuador in December turned out to be quite a challenge. For once we were planning on spending lots of time on the Galapagos islands, and secondly, we were planning on visiting the mainland and Quito, which lies high up in the Andes. With so many climates to cover the onion-style is vital!
Daytrips from Quito │ Explore Ecuador
When most people think of Ecuador, they automatically imagine the Galapagos Islands. However, this small country has much more to offer than just its world-famous archipelago. Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is located in the middle of the Andes and is an excellent starting point for exploring all three regions of the country.
Galapagos island – an alternate universe
Imagine a place where sea lions and lizards just hang out in the village like its the most normal thing to do. That’s Galapagos islands for you! We were blown away after our first minutes in San Cristobal, the islands of the sea lions!
