Table of Contents
¿Quieres leerlo en español? Want to read this in Spanish? ¡Haz click aquí!
Adventure travel is becoming trendier every year, with everyone from newbie travelers to athletes and adrenaline seekers looking for unique adventure tourist destinations to fulfill their travel dreams. Latin America has been a hotspot for adventure for many years, and Ecuador’s unique and varying landscapes offer all kinds of opportunities to satisfy every kind of traveler’s bucket list. To make your trip as epic as possible, Olón is the perfect adventure tourist destination because it has something for everyone! This chill fishing village right in the heart of coastal Ecuador has loads of activities to keep you entertained and push your limits as a wanderer and adrenaline seeker, whether you’re into mountain hikes, family-friendly activities, or catching waves.
Olón is mostly known for its large beach, perfect for catching waves or chilling with friends, sipping coconut water, enjoying fresh seafood, and soaking in the best sunsets. But there’s more to it than just that. You probably haven’t heard of all of the other cool spots nearby where you can get a taste of the local culture, and in this blog we will introduce you to some of the incredible activities you can do around Olón besides surfing and learning Spanish at Outdoor Ecuador!
As a popular adventure tourist destination in Ecuador, Olón offers tons of activities where you can learn, enjoy, experience, and fully explore your adventurous spirit. From massages and spa treatments to help you relax to extreme sports that will help you unleash your potential and get that adrenaline rush, this town has something for everyone!
Things to do in the ocean
FISHING
In Olón, surfing is the real deal – we consider it an extreme activity, and we have kilometers of wave-filled beaches! So, if you’re keen to learn the ropes and brush up on your Spanish to chat with the locals, Outdoor Ecuador is your go-to. But if you’re already an experienced surfer and fluent in the language and you’re itching for more ocean adventures, nothing beats tagging along with Luis (aka Vago), our adventure guru, for some fishing in the high-seas.
With Luis, you’ll learn all the essential fishing know-how, from when it’s the best time to cast off, to prepping the boats, what tools and supplies you’ll need for a fishing trip, how to master the best fishing tricks for your skill level, and even which lures and rods are best for catching different types of fish – like snook, mackerel, sea bass, snappers, among others – that the Pacific has in store for you.
For Luis, fishing is more than just a job; it’s a way to disconnect from the daily grind and stress. He loves teaching our students fishing tricks so you can hit up local spots like Los Ahorcados or El Pelado islets, where you can chill and fish, whether with bait or lures and armed with a solid fishing rod.
On your fishing trip you’ll also have time to explore the diverse underwater scene with its beautiful coral reefs and the fish that call them home. If you’ve got the right gear, you can even try spearfishing and catch bigger fish, which you can share later in a tasty dinner with your family or friends, just like they do in fishing villages like San Pedro and all along the Spondylus Route.
Aside from fishing, there’s plenty of other water activities and nearby towns to check out near Olón. Ayangue and Puerto López are two coastal towns well-known for their awesome food, the tranquility of their seas, and friendly vibes. It’s not uncommon to find family-run businesses along their boardwalks offering activities such as:
- Humpback Whale Watching
- Snorkeling
- Scuba Diving
HUMPBACK WHALE WATCHING
Every year, from June to October, the coasts of the Ecuadorian Pacific welcome the visit of Humpback Whales. They pick the warm waters of this region for their mating rituals and birthing their calves, then they continue their journey towards the cold southern waters of the continent. During these months, you can enjoy the beautiful natural spectacle of seeing these majestic creatures jumping and twirling out of the water.
From Ayangue, located 30 minutes south of Olón – and known as the Pacific’s swimming pool for its calm waters – you can take a boat and visit El Pelado Islet for a closer look at this marine show. But if you’re a bit further North of Olón, don’t worry, you can also take a boat from Puerto López, located 45 minutes away from Olón.
Without a doubt the main features of Ayangue are the diving trips and the snorkeling adventures. In this area you will find the statue of the Christ of the Waters, donated in 2011 by a diver who learned to dive in these very waters. He, along with fifteen other divers, managed to place the fiberglass statue on the seabed near the islet “El Pelado” in an area recognized as a sanctuary for corals and fish.
Just like Ayangue, Puerto López is another coastal community boasting friendly people and peaceful waters. Here, you can enjoy the delicious and diverse seafood cuisine, as well as tons of activities where you can relax or have fun with your family or friends. Boat excursions to visit the different islets in this area of the Pacific offer you the best postcard-worthy photographs you can imagine, as well as the ideal settings for diving and getting your PADI license.
Things to do up in the air
PARAGLIDING
San Pedro, another cozy fishing village on the Spondylus Route, offers one of the coolest extreme activities around – paragliding. If you’re cruising down the Spondylus Route and happen to be nearby, you’ll be blown away by the sight of colorful kites gliding over the sea. This spot is famous across the country, thanks to its ideal location on the Pacific coast. Not only can you try out paragliding here, but you will also enjoy breathtaking views of the famous sunsets of the Ecuadorian coast.
Paragliding is an excellent choice for thrill-seekers who love airborne adventures and it is even a great option for families. But if flying over the sea isn’t your thing and you’re more of a feet-on-the-ground kind of person, San Pedro is a must-visit. The view of the ocean from the mountaintop is breathtaking and is an excursion you cannot miss.
Things to do on land
HIKING
Olón’s location is perfect for exploring many activities right on solid ground. Right from the town center, you can find trails in walking distance that lead into the mountains behind the village.
The difficulty levels vary, so you’ve got some options to explore these trails. The most popular is the one that runs along the entire oil pipeline route, which starts in La Entrada village (just 10 minutes north of Olón) and ends near Cadeate (15 minutes south of Olón). It’s often used for a workout, and you can choose which section you want to cover. Most people prefer to walk it because there are some parts that are impossible to navigate on a bike. Just make sure to bring a water bottle, sunscreen, and insect repellent. And the best part? The epic view of the Pacific from the mountaintop. It’s definitely worth it after a good hike.
BIKE TOURS
For bike enthusiasts, Olón boasts the best mountain trails. And if you love cycling while soaking in the coastal scenery then you’ve got over 8 km of beach between Olón and La Entrada village to explore during low tide while enjoying the sea breeze and beautiful sunsets.
Mountain bike rides offer varied routes, and their difficulty level and duration depend on how adventurous you feel. The most popular route spans 16 km (8 km one way and another 8 km back), where you’ll encounter lush vegetation, vast dragon fruit plantations, and stunning hills along your ride.
But that’s not all; about 4 km further, you’ll reach the community of San Vicente de Loja. There, you can take a break under a tree with a cold beer or a “coco helado” (frozen coconut treat) and observe the life of the locals. Plus, as you pedal on, you might stumble upon some streams and waterfalls. Just don’t forget the essentials for your ride: water, sunscreen, snacks, bug spray, and, of course, your trusty bike gear.
If speed, extreme sports, and engines are your thing, you’ll find plenty of areas around Olón that are particularly ideal for practicing motocross.
MOTOTRIPS
And if you’re wondering what lies beyond the mountains of Olón, the Eastern countryside is waiting for you with a road full of high hills and adventures. These hills connect Olón with some towns in the province of Manabí, and with Colonche. The trails are perfect for adrenaline seekers who want to explore these places on a motorcycle, crossing rough muddy terrain and traversing rivers. At the end of these motorcycle rides, you’ll find the peace and tranquility of the mountains covered in vegetation and wildlife, and you’ll even have the opportunity to cool off in one of the streams or waterfalls that welcome you to these beautiful places hidden among the mountains.
Apart from the beautiful flora, fauna, and waterfalls, these motorcycle excursions also give you the opportunity to spot a variety of endemic animals like the pacharaca, tarantulas, howler monkeys, ocelots, and other creatures that inhabit this area. It’s like getting a front-row seat to Mother Nature’s greatest hits!
On your way to Dos Mangas, you have a must-stop at the organic farm “Samkhya.” This place is amazing not only for its diversity of edible plants or its philosophy of regenerative agriculture – without the use of pesticides – but also for its star fruit: Fine Aroma Cacao. Luis, the brilliant mind behind this project, will not only introduce you to the world of permaculture but also teach you how to make a wide variety of cocoa-based products, from your own organic chocolate bars to body oils. And don’t even think about leaving without trying their heavenly brownies made with lots of love and cacao.
If you wander about 8 km South of Olón, you’ll reach the community of “Dos Mangas.” This little village is also nestled in the mountains, just 10 minutes from the Manglaralto community. To get to this village from Olón, you’ve got a few options like taking a taxi, hopping on a bus, or biking. From Dos Mangas, you can hit up some trails to explore the mountains, where you can choose to walk or go on horseback. At the end of these trails, you’ll stumble upon beautiful waterfalls and natural pools of fresh, crystal-clear water.
Trust us, you won’t want to miss reaching the end of the hike for a well-deserved dip into these waters. And when you head back to town, make sure to swing by the local artisan shops. These businesses are family-owned and have carried on this tradition for many decades. Their crafts are made with everything from bamboo,to tagua (vegetable ivory), and toquilla straw. Many of these items are crafted to be sold in villages along the Spondylus Route, like Ayangue, Libertador Bolívar, Montañita, and Olón.
Things to do to relax and unwind
YOGA
We all know that practicing yoga regularly not only gives us more body flexibility and strengthens our bones, but also helps us reduce stress levels in our body, allowing us to find a balance between our body and mind. If you’re a follower of this philosophy and yoga practice is part of your daily routine, you won’t have to take a break while visiting Olón, as it’s very easy to find places to practice different yoga disciplines in the village.
Our top pick for yoga sessions? Hands down, it’s Karla. She’ll guide you through Vinyasa or Hatha Yoga, helping you find the balance you need, and the best part is that her yoga sessions are in the school garden at the end of the day, the perfect time to disconnect and relax.
But a relaxation day wouldn’t be complete without a well-deserved massage. In Olón, you’ll find plenty of spas and wellness centers offering a wide range of body and holistic treatments, which along with a yoga session are everything your body needs to feel good during your trip.
SALSA
At Outdoor Ecuador, you can also pick up some salsa moves and wow your friends on the dance floor or at the village festivals. Nadine, our amazing instructor, will show you the ropes of this catchy and fun traditional dance. And trust me, you’ll have a blast while you’re at it!
PATRON SAINT FESTIVALS
These festivals are celebrated every year in all the communities along the Ecuadorian coast. Each community has their own “Patron Saint” and a Virgin Mary who protect the town. For this reason, the local people celebrate them on specific dates. In Olón, these dates are the 8th of September, which is the day of the Virgin of the Mystic Rose, and December 13th, which is the day of Santa Lucia.
Every year on these two dates, Olón goes all out. If you’re lucky enough to be in Olón during these celebrations, I guarantee you’ll have the most fun you can imagine with the three days of festivities culminating in the “burning of the castle” and the “crazy cow” event. Don’t forget to buy some canelazo (Ecuador’s version of a hot toddy) at one of the street stalls around the town square.
FOOD
The food scene in this area is diverse and mouthwatering. Olón has something for everyone, from local seafood spots to cozy bistros, cafes, and restaurants with local and international specialties. Craving some Indian food? Check out South Indian Restaurant. Feel like digging into Peruvian flavors? Maxi_mo is the spot for you. And if you’re all about Argentine empanadas and sweets, Bahiio and La Churrería have got you covered! But hey, there’s plenty more to explore, so here are a few ideas:
When it comes to Ecuadorian coastal cuisine, our favorite spot is La Olla Costeña. Jhonny has a menu that just reading it will make your mouth water, and if it’s not on the menu, just ask him – he’ll make it happen and at a great price! But you also shouldn’t miss out on a delicious tigrillo, bolón, or the house’s specialty – Cazuela de mariscos – at Mar del Sol beach hut. Here, it’s not just about the food; it’s also about the ocean view and sea breeze. Want to keep trying local food? Here are some more options:
- Parrilla Al Rojo Vivo
- Las menestras de Leila
- Crustáceo
- Broilled chicken at Don Genaro
- “Los secos” at the local market
Don’t be surprised if while you’re soaking up the sun on the beach you get visits from food vendors. I recommend trying the “bollo de pescado” – it’s a treat!
If you’re a digital nomad, the bistros and cafes in Olón offer delicious, healthy, and refreshing dishes and drinks, making them the perfect spot to work comfortably. Here are some of the best spots:
So, what do you reckon? Do you think you’d be bored in Olón if you didn’t surf? I don’t think so!