Fotos cortesía: Ministerio de Turismo

THE SURF BEACH

In 2016, the World Surf Cities Network – WSCN, a European entity that promotes the surfing industry worldwide, declared this paradise beach a “Surf City”. Its location, waves, competitions, surf schools, and the manufacturing of boards and clothing to perform this sport are just some of the factors that the WSCN takes into account to grant the recognition. In Montañita you can find all that and more.

Tourism of adventure, nightlife, bohemian atmosphere, varied gastronomy and extreme sports such as surfing, are reasons why local and foreign tourists choose Montañita as an ideal destination for carnival. In addition, this beach has gained enormous popularity and prestige among surfers worldwide, becoming the ideal setting for intrepid travellers.

The sea is perfect for surfing. World-class waves reach up to three meters high, and it is precisely for this reason that on several occasions Montañita has been home to renowned international competitions, in which famous athletes participate. Some of these events are the Reef Classic Conquer, Reef Classic, Alas Classic and Montanita Classic, organized by the Latin American Association of Professional Surfers (ALAS); and the World Masters Surfing Championship, which is promoted by the International Surfing Association (ISA). National competitions have been carried out to promote tourism, industry and local economy.

More than a sport, surfing is a lifestyle desired not only by professionals, but also by fans that are in search of adrenaline and extreme emotions. Montañita offers courses for beginners, intermediates and even advanced levels. Lessons are composed of theoretical and practical sections, in which expert and enthusiastic instructors teach different techniques and maneuvers with the surfboard.

If learning to surf is in your bucket list, Montañita will finally fulfill this desire. The more times you visit this beach and practice the sport, the more skill you will have and the opportunity to debut in competitions will eventually present itself. If you do not have a surfboard or appropriate clothing there is no problem, several stores rent or sell everything that you’ll need to become a surfer.

After the day activities in the sea you must get ready for the Montañita nightlife that offers a myriad of activities. One option is to simply sit at the beach and watch as the sun goes down and its reflection on the sea colors the sky with orange tones. Amazing sunsets motivate bonfires and entertaining reunions among friends. At night the atmosphere is lit with reggae, salsa and different musical genres, captivating young people who quickly move to bars and nightclubs in search for entertainment. You can also explore the surroundings, enjoy the view and dine on a delicious seafood pizza.

Montañita is located in the province of Santa Elena and is part of the well-known Spondylus Route, which includes some beaches of the provinces of the Ecuadorian coast like Guayas, Santa Elena, Manabí and Esmeraldas. This tropical paradise provides everything you need to escape from routine and forget your worries, as it fills you up with extraordinary emotions.