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Ecuador is a tourist’s paradise. It has four worlds within one tiny country thanks to its four distinct climates and countrysides, and its coastal region is one of the most unique and special places on Earth. If you’re traveling in South America, the Ecuadorian coast is something you absolutely cannot miss, since it is ideal for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation and a connection with nature by the seaside. Fortunately, there are many places with these characteristics where tourists can have a comfortable stay, enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, and immerse themselves in friendly and welcoming local communities.
If you’re traveling along the Ecuadorian coast looking for good waves and adventure, this blog is made for you! We’ve picked our top 3 safe, friendly and welcoming places along the Ecuadorian coast to spend your dream beach vacation.
OLÓN – Una mezcla de culturas en una playa vibrante
Olón (“big wave”) is a small beach town located in the central area of Ecuador’s famous Spondylus Highway, and is the perfect destination for every type of traveler. Whether you are a family looking for a beach vacation and kid-friendly activities, a solo traveler looking for adventures, a surfer, a hiker, a nature and marine enthusiast, or something in between, Olón has something for you!
If you stay long enough, you’ll have the opportunity to not only relax by the beach and eat incredible food, but you’ll also have the chance to surf, fish, snorkel, hike, travel to nearby nature reserves, and learn about Ecuadorian culture, language, and people. To top it all off, you’re guaranteed a magnificent sunset almost every night. It’s a beautiful town filled with welcoming people, and there’s always something to do. You never get bored in Olón!
In recent years, Olón has developed quickly due to its growing tourism economy and its appeal as an ideal location for many expats and nomads from all over the globe who have chosen it as their permanent residence. This has created a unique connection between foreign and local cultures. In Olón, you’ll find different types of accommodations, outdoor activities, and welcoming people who will make you feel right at home and share their traditions and culture with you. It’s also very likely that you’ll meet people from your own country who have been living in this town for so long that they are now Olón locals at heart.
If you’re a foodie and you want the ultimate local experience in Olón, you can’t miss having lunch at one of the beachfront cabañas. The cabañas stick to local delicacies, perfecting the art of fresh caught seafood, a local luxury on the Ecuadorian coast. They have everything from ceviche, to mussels, to lobster, and the portion sizes are incredible for the prices.
Another essential local meal you have to try during your stay in Olón is Encebollado; a traditional fish and onion soup made only at breakfast time, this dish is adored by Ecuadorians and travelers alike. Head to the Spondylus Highway in the morning and choose from one of the many vendors making huge pots of fresh Encebollado every morning. But if you sleep in too late, you’ll miss it!
Olón has a very extensive beach, ideal for travelers and visitors who want to learn or improve their surfing skills and techniques. Due to its size and characteristics, it is suitable for learning and understanding more about currents and tides, which is perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. The beach welcomes currents from the north and the south, offering ideal conditions for surfers of all levels. In addition to Olón, surfers can make daily visits to other surf points to the north, such as La Entrada, La Rinconada, Ayampe, and Las Tunas, smaller in size and population but equally welcoming.
AYAMPE – La belleza y tranquilidad de un pueblo detenido en el tiempo
Ayampe is a small community located 23 km north of Olón, in the province of Manabí. Like Olón, Ayampe is known for its combination of the different cultures of its local and foreign residents. However, what characterizes and sets this small town apart is its peacefulness. People come here to live in harmony with nature, to make community, and to surf and enjoy its diverse culture and cuisine. It’s filled with lush greenery, beautiful flowers, and is a quiet and peaceful place to spend time during your vacation.
The range of accommodation options and activities in Ayampe is diverse, from hostels to beach houses or apartments set-up for digital nomads who want to enjoy a good surf session, yoga session, or beach walk after work. There is also a big yoga and wellness community living in Ayampe, so those who want to find like-minded individuals focused on health, wellness, fitness and healthy local food will not want to miss out! A local eatery you won’t want to miss during your stay is Los Orishas.
In addition to being a natural paradise, Ayampe is a surfer’s paradise. Ayampe is a great challenge for wave hunters, since, compared to other nearby beaches, its waves are twice as strong, providing better conditions for those who enjoy surfing large waves, or for those used to surfing in strong conditions. But if you catch Ayampe on the right day and in the right conditions, it’s a great spot for beginner surfers too!
Whether you’re a surfer, a foodie, a yogi, or simply a curious traveler, Ayampe is a place you cannot miss. The people are open, kind, and helpful, and make visitors feel right at home. There are always community projects working towards the betterment of local and natural life, and everyone who lives there does their part for the common good. You will definitely get a feel for the natural charm of Ecuadorian beach life in Ayampe and will feel right at home with the friendly locals here, and to top it all off, the vibes are incredible!
LAS TUNAS – El paraíso tranquilo
Las Tunas is a slightly less-known travel destination along the Ecuadorian coast, but is not a place you should miss! It has one of the most beautiful waves in Ecuador, absolutely stunning views, hikes and nature, and some of the most incredible local food. This small town is located north of Ayampe and connects the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific with the lush vegetation of the rainforest. This small community is also highly appreciated by diving enthusiasts who visit to discover the interesting coral formations and the rich marine ecosystem of this area.
The community of Las Tunas is mostly native, and its people are very friendly and welcoming to tourists. However, unlike other towns, Las Tunas is much quieter and peaceful. Nevertheless, it offers sufficient gastronomic and hotel options to accommodate visitors who come for diving, surfing, or even skateboarding, or those who are just passing through the area. Although tourism is not as constant as it is in other points on the Spondylus Highway, many local families have adapted their own places for travelers to stay and have a safe, comfortable and more family-oriented experience.
If you’re into trying local food, Restaurante Jimmy is a must-visit, and the best part is that the food comes directly to you while you enjoy the view of the sea from a hammock on the beach! And if you’re looking for home-cooked perfection, head to the main road (Spondylus Highway) and look for Restaurante Mama Ruth and she will make your day better with her incredible cooking. And, if you want to try the best local street food, make sure you get a ‘corviche’ from one of the roadside vendors. A Manabí specialty!
For these reasons, it’s not surprising that many foreigners fall in love with the place and the warmth of its people and want to contribute in some way to the well-being of its inhabitants. Organizations like Wonders Around the World, for example, recognized the potential of the younger generation in this community and its surroundings and left their legacy, a skatepark where children and young people can gather and learn more about skateboarding and surf culture. If you’re a fan of skate culture you won’t want to miss a visit to this skatepark; we assure you it will be an unforgettable experience.
Las Tunas is an essential stop, so make sure to add it to your list!
