The Surf Window

Salinas Ecuador

Santa Elena, Ecuador

Beach breakBeginner

Ecuador's most popular beach resort, Salinas at the country's western tip catches waves from multiple directions and has a long surf tradition, the country's oldest surf clubs were founded here decades ago.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size1–2.5m at 12–16s

Wind

NE

Light to E under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Dec–May

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Long beach with multiple peaks

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: All levels
  • •Why: Long beach with varied peaks accommodates everyone

Hazards

  • •Very crowded in holiday periods
  • •Strong rip currents near the western point
  • •Boat and jet ski traffic in the peak resort season

Local Tips

  • •The Santa Rosa Point on the western end of town is the most consistent spot
  • •The surf culture in Salinas dates to the 1960s, there's genuine history here
  • •The yacht club bar is a great place to connect with the local surf community

Location

Map showing the location of Salinas Ecuador in Santa Elena, Ecuador

-2.2189, -80.9747