A few decades ago, Galapagos wasn’t a top surf destination, not even in Ecuador. It was widely known for its unique landscapes and marine life but surfers were not aware the wave paradise Galapagos really is. Surfers used to prefer Montañita or other traditional sport in the continental Ecuador for a surf trip.

Things have changed. Nowadays more a more people are discovering The Galapagos Islands as a unique surfing spot in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Even an international competition as the ALAS Latin Tour realised about the uniqueness of Galapagos and bet for it in 2018 to held the competition.

Surfing in Galápagos is a great option not only for its year round world class waves, but its privileged warm weather and marine life. Also it’s uniqueness makes it a really attractive spot for your surf trip, as there is the only places where you can enjoy the waves along with sea lions and marine iguanas.

Keep reading and find everything about the best surfing spots in The Galapagos Islands, how and when to get there, faqs and more.

Surf Camps in Galapagos are another great way to learn how to surf in a cool and relaxed environment surrounded by the surfing community. There’s a few surf camps in Galápagos buy we recommend LavaWave and The Point in San Cristobal and Galapagos Bike and Surf in Isabela Island.

The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, 1000 km away from Ecuador mainland. In this location the islands benefit from a warm weather all year (never less than 19º). The Islands also have swells from the north and south of the Pacific, assuring you good waves all year.

However, if you are able to choose the dates, the best time to visit the Galapagos Islands to surf is from december to may. During this time there’s plenty of sun (27º) and lots of waves. The rest of the year, even though it doesn’t get cold, it may get a little cloudy and rainy.

Here’s more information about the dates and what you can find: 

You need to be prepared when it comes to packing for Galápagos Islands. You have to remember that there’s a few things that are not easily found there. There’s no huge malls, no beach bars, specially on isolated places where its only you, your surfboard and nature. So keep in mind this when packing.

There’s no doubt that San Cristobal island is the best in Galapagos to practice surf. San Cristobal has many points for intermediate and advanced surfers, not recommended for beginners. You can also find a great surfing community in this island since there you can find 4 world class waves, 2 of which are square tubes. The reason why the waves in the Galapagos Islands are so special its because its exceptional location, where it gets both north and south swells from the Pacific Ocean.

The North-West coast beaches of the island is the one you should look for to find the top waves. There are spots for all levels. La Loberia is the best spot for surf beginners, while Tongo Reef is the spot you must head to if you are a pro surfer and look for an exciting experience.

On the days when the sea is calm, it is a wonderful beach to lie down and sunbathe. The beach is one of the most beautiful in San Cristobal, and the sea lions that rest there will surely give you a smile throughout the day.

Are you planning to surf in La Lobería? Here you can find the weather forecast for the next week

On this island, north currents arrive in the beach season (from November to April) and south swell from May to October, where the temperature of the waves usually go down a little and although it does not get cold, the sky is more cloudy, It is less appetizing and there may even be drizzle.

There are many other spots to surf in Santa Cruz Island.  Some of them very close to city centre as Playa el Bazan, Tres pico and Piedra Ahogada. You can even get there by walking.

Some others are only reachable by boat but definitely worth it. This spots are Punta Nuñez, Ola Escondida o Punta Gallina.

Isabela  islandis undoubtedly one of the favorite islands for tourists who visit Galapagos. Its environment and unique landscapes make it an authentic natural paradise.

In terms of surfing, this island is ideal for beginners or people who want to learn this sport since it has wide beaches where a high level of experience is not required.

For this reason, there are many stores that offer surf lessons around the island. If you visit Isabela, we recommend the spots El Faro, El Hospital, Barahona, Los Túneles and of course, the beach of Puerto Villamil for classes focused on beginners.

Planning to visit Galapagos? We’ll be glad to help with tips, recommendation and also we can create a personalized itinerary for you to enjoy and make the most our of your days on the Islands. Drop us a line!