Montanita La Punta
Montanita is Ecuador's most famous wave and surf town - a right-hand point break that barrels at low tide over a rocky reef. The vibrant party town atmosphere attracts surfers, backpackers, and beach lovers from around the world. When rare N swells hit during summer, the point produces perfect, long rides.
Montanita La Punta surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (225°)
- Direction range
- 200° - 315°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2m - 2.6m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ENE (67°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 90°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.2m
- Danger below
- 0.2m
Water temp
25°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
8/10
Access: Main surf town. Party scene.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Montanita La Punta?
The Montanita La Punta profile favors low to mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.2m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session. The profile flags a low-tide hazard below 0.2m.
What wind direction is offshore at Montanita La Punta?
The Montanita La Punta profile uses wind from ENE (67°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 45° to 90°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Montanita La Punta?
The Montanita La Punta scoring profile favors swell from SW (200° to 315°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 3m, and a reference period of 16s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Montanita La Punta?
The main season at Montanita La Punta is Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May. A secondary window runs Jun-Nov. Best December-May. Barrels at low tide.
How do I get to Montanita La Punta?
The spot profile lists GYE as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 180 minutes. Main surf town. Party scene.
What kind of wave is Montanita La Punta?
Montanita La Punta is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May
Secondary: Jun-Nov
Best December-May. Barrels at low tide.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Montanita Beach
🌊 Beginner beach • Surf school central • High tide fun
Montañita
🎉 Ecuador's party wave • Famous left point • Backpacker paradise
La Rinconada
🌊 Montanita alternative • Left reef • Fewer crowds
Olon
👨👩👧 Family-friendly • Montanita escape • Quiet beach
Ayampe
🧘 Eco-village waves • Yoga retreat scene • Beginner-friendly
Las Tunas
🏖️ Quiet alternative • Near Ayampe • Year-round waves