Montañita is a must-visit town in Ecuador, blending stunning beaches, exciting surf breaks, and a laid-back, bohemian vibe. From my time there, I’d say it’s truly one of Latin America’s liveliest party spots! The streets are alive with vibrant bars, nightclubs, and rustic, thatch-roofed restaurants, all adding to Montañita’s infectious energy.
The beach itself feels like the heart of the town. The shore is dotted with colorful umbrellas and pavilions, creating the perfect backdrop for swimmers, sunbathers, and those just looking to unwind by the waves. The warm water invites everyone, from surfers to those just enjoying a gentle wade.
Here are some of the activities we’d recommend trying while you’re soaking in all that Montañita has to offer.
Learn Surfing
Montañita’s beach had me spellbound, especially with its perfect, tube-shaped waves soaring up to 9 meters. Watching experienced surfers tackle those massive waves was captivating; despite having little surfing experience myself, I felt drawn to give it a try.
If you’re considering surfing here, the best time is between December and May. During these months, the north swell arrives, creating ideal surfing conditions. The winds are calmer, the sun is often out, and the water stays invitingly warm, making it a fantastic time to learn or hone your skills on the waves.
Experience Parasailing and Paragliding
Montañita has no shortage of thrilling water activities, and trying parasailing and paragliding here was unforgettable! Soaring above the ocean, I felt like a bird, gliding over the waves and taking in the sweeping coastal views.
The setup was easy, with all equipment provided and a guide who managed everything, ensuring we felt secure the entire time. While the safety checks and prep took a bit of time, the anticipation only made the experience that much better. The ten minutes in the sky felt both exhilarating and peaceful, making it a highlight of my time in Montañita.
Go Diving
Scuba diving in Montañita was an absolute highlight, with the ocean’s allure drawing us toward Isla de la Plata, the “poor man’s Galapagos.” This day trip was like stepping into a nature documentary!
The boat ride to the island took just 20 minutes, but it felt like a journey to another world. Blue-footed boobies and pelicans greeted us along the rocky shores, and once we dipped below the water’s surface, we were surrounded by vibrant marine life. We swam among octopuses, sea turtles, and corals that swayed in the currents, all while schools of fish darted around us. It was pure magic, and the memories still feel so vivid.
Bird Watching on Isla de la Plata
Our short boat ride from Montañita to Isla de la Plata turned out to be a birdwatcher’s paradise, even for casual observers like us. The island, part of the Machalilla National Park, is an eco-tourism haven, committed to preserving its stunning array of bird species. We spotted flocks of blue-footed and red-footed boobies, Nazca and waved albatrosses, vibrant tropical birds, and the unmistakable frigatebirds with their striking red pouches.
Hiring a guide made all the difference, especially since we weren’t seasoned birdwatchers. Their insights brought the island’s unique ecosystem to life, and though we kept a respectful distance, it was hard not to be charmed by the curious birds that came surprisingly close to us.
Hiking and Sulfur-Bath
Agua Blanca, a charming village north of Puerto Lopez, offered one of the most unique and rejuvenating experiences of our trip. Soaking in the natural sulfur pool felt incredibly refreshing, and adding a mud facial was a fun touch that made the whole experience feel like a natural spa retreat. The mineral-rich waters worked wonders, helping us unwind and wash away any lingering travel stress.
Beyond the pool, exploring the nearby forest and visiting the tiny on-site museum turned out to be equally fascinating. The museum had an impressive collection of pre-Colombian artifacts, and the guide’s insights into the ancient relics added so much depth to our visit. Practicing my Spanish with them made the experience even more memorable—it was a chance to connect with the local culture in a very genuine way.
Night Party in Cocktail Alley
Cocktail Alley in Montañita was an absolute highlight of our nights in town! This lively street has an electric vibe with countless cocktail vendors whipping up colorful drinks while salsa and pop music pulse through the air. My friends and I found ourselves dancing right in the street, surrounded by people from all over the world who were just as eager to soak in the atmosphere.
We even made a few new friends along the way, bonding over our favorite cocktails and travel stories. And just when you thought you’d have to call it a night, street vendors come by with tempting local snacks, making it nearly impossible to resist grabbing a bite and diving right back into the party.
Take a Day Trip to Neighboring Olón Town
Just a quick trip up the coast, about two kilometers north of Montañita, lies Olón—a coastal town that feels like an oasis of calm compared to Montañita’s bustling vibe. Our day trip to Olón was a refreshing change of pace; the beach was quieter, and the atmosphere made it perfect for relaxing and unwinding.
We met a few fellow travelers here, all drawn by Olón’s laid-back charm. Lunchtime brought its own little adventure as we tried fresh seafood at a cozy local restaurant and sampled some delicious international dishes nearby. The mix of quiet beach time and great food made our time in Olón feel like a perfect mini getaway.
Montanita Gastronomy
One of the unexpected highlights of Montañita was its incredible range of food. With so many foreigners making Montañita their home, the town has developed an eclectic culinary scene that goes well beyond traditional Ecuadorian fare. We found everything from artisan pizzas and fresh-baked bread to crepes, empanadas, sushi, and, of course, ice cream—perfect for the warm beach days.
Strolling through town, we loved trying something new at nearly every turn. The mix of local and international flavors made each meal feel like a little adventure in itself, adding even more charm to our stay in Montañita.
Ceviche was truly everywhere in Montañita, even sold fresh right on the beach! There was something incredible about enjoying ceviche with the ocean right in front of us—the flavors of the fresh seafood mixed perfectly with the beach vibe. If you’re as much of a food lover as I am, I can’t recommend a gastronomic tour around Montañita enough. Each spot had its own twist on ceviche, and trying them all added a delicious layer to our beach town experience.
Walk the Malecón
The boardwalk in Montañita was a perfect stroll along the beach, giving us views of the waves, the lively energy of people enjoying the water, and even the chance to meet a few fellow travelers who quickly became friends. Vendors lined the Malecon, offering all sorts of souvenirs and handcrafted items, making it easy to find something memorable to bring home. But the highlight for me was, without a doubt, the sunset—absolutely breathtaking and a view that will stay with me for a long time. Watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink over the ocean was the perfect end to our days there.
Learn Spanish at Montañita Spanish School
For anyone interested in diving into Spanish, Montañita Spanish School is an incredible option! They offer more than just traditional classes; you can blend learning with experiences like Spanish + Surf or Spanish + Yoga. It’s a great way to enjoy the beautiful Montañita beaches while picking up the language. Although we didn’t have enough time to join, some friends we made there shared their positive experiences, saying it was both fun and super effective. Next time, I’m definitely signing up—it sounds like an ideal balance of learning and leisure!
Bottom line
Montañita may be a small town, but it packs an incredible charm that’s hard to forget. It’s one of those places along Ecuador’s coast that feels both laid-back and lively, making it truly unique. Looking back, I know Montañita will always hold a special spot in my memories of Ecuador. The locals’ warmth and hospitality made us feel right at home, and every day brought new experiences that kept us excited for more. If you’re planning a trip to Ecuador, I can’t recommend adding Montañita to your itinerary enough—it’s definitely a place worth visiting!
