Montañita

Ecuador, South America

Montañita, located on Ecuador's stunning Pacific coast, is a vibrant beach town celebrated for its bohemian atmosphere, world-class surfing, and lively nightlife. Known for its beautiful sandy beaches, dreamy sunsets, and a community-focused vibe, Montañita attracts backpackers and surf enthusiasts alike. It's famous for festivals, yoga retreats, and a plethora of bars and restaurants that feature fresh seafood and local cuisine, offering an unforgettable cultural experience.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Party

Airport

General Ulpiano Paez

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Montañita

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Surfing at Montañita Beach

Catch waves at this world-famous surf spot.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Nightlife at the beach bars

Experience vibrant nightlife with live music and dancing.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Yoga classes by the beach

Relax and rejuvenate with seaside yoga sessions.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the nearby Olón Beach

Enjoy a quieter, beautiful beach just a short walk away.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore local artisan shops

Shop for unique handmade crafts and souvenirs.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a drum circle on the beach

Join locals for rhythmic drumming and dancing.

No booking required
7

Est. 8 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a day trip to La Ruta del Spondylus

Explore beautiful coastal towns and scenic views.

Booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Participate in a cooking class

Learn to make traditional Ecuadorian dishes with locals.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

3 (#44 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

US Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Encebollado

Fish stew with yuca and onions (National dish)

Ceviche

Citrus-marinated seafood dish

Llapingachos

V

Potato patties served with peanut sauce

Hornado

Roasted pork with crispy skin

Seco de Chivo

Goat stew with spices and beer

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)