The Surf Window

Isabela Island

Galápagos, Ecuador

Reef breakIntermediate

The largest island in the Galápagos, Isabela has fewer surf spots than San Cristóbal but rewards explorers with completely uncrowded reef breaks surrounded by the most astonishing wildlife on the planet.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–W 1.5–2.5m at 14–18s

Wind

SE

Light to E under 15 knots

Tide

Mid to high

LowMidHigh

Season

Dec–May

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Reef break

Bottom

Volcanic rock

Shape

Peaks and points, varies by location

Length

80–200m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced surfers
  • •Why: Remote volcanic reef breaks require experience and self-reliance

Hazards

  • •Sharp volcanic rock, booties essential
  • •Sea lions and sharks in the water
  • •Very limited medical facilities on the island

Local Tips

  • •Puerto Villamil is the main town, base yourself here and arrange boat access to breaks
  • •Sierra Negra volcano hike on flat days is one of the world's great volcano experiences
  • •The flightless cormorants and Galápagos penguins nesting near the surf are extraordinary

Location

Map showing the location of Isabela Island in Galápagos, Ecuador

-0.9511, -90.9708