A surfer’s heaven.
Montanita is located on the western coast of Ecuador about three hours by bus from Guayaquil. It is known for its sandy beaches and great surfing. While it a bit more difficult to get to because there is no nearby airport, it is worth the trek. This small town has so much energy, beautiful sunsets and people visiting from all over the world. It is a popular spot for Ecuadorians in the surrounding areas for a weekend getaway, which creates a blend of Latin culture and curious foreigners. Surfers from all over come to Montanita to perfect their skills. You can watch them catching waves early in the morning and at sunset. There are surf schools and classes available for beginners if you aren’t quite at that level. I, however, know that I am a horrible surfer and opted out of these resources. I found this gem of a town when I was searching for yoga retreats in Ecuador. While there was no yoga retreat during the dates I was looking for, I decided to go anyways and take daily classes at the same hostel, Casa del Sol. I figured laying on the beach and doing yoga every day after so much travel and hiking would be exactly what my body and soul needed.
Sol y soul.
I came to Montanita for relaxation and alone time after two amazing weeks with Jewel and Ryan. What I didn’t realize is that this town is known for its party scene and is quite the popular destination for backpackers. I got so much more than I bargained for. I cried when I left…a) because I am emotional, b) because I had the best time, c) because I met the most incredible people, and d) because I know I will be back. The weather was perfect every day, partly sunny and 85 degrees. I spent the mornings doing yoga (often two classes in a row), the afternoons reading on the beach with fresh coconut water and the evening watching the sunsets drinking beer (the local is Club or Pilsener – most people will tell you Club is superior, I’m indifferent) and listening to live music at a beach bar. The ocean was like bath water and waves were so large you couldn’t go too far out due to the current. The fresh fish and small local restaurants were incredible (recommend Sazon Guayaco). There is ceviche everywhere, even men walking around in carts on the beach offering up fresh made ceviche for beach goers. The city center has charming shops, restaurants, and a street called cocktail street where people flood the streets drinking sugar filled drinks for $5 each. The food and beer is cheap and the music is loud. Discotecas and clubs stay open until about 4am and after people flood to the beach to continue la fiesta into the early morning. I would be lying to you if I was not one of those people. Sorry mom. However, that did not stop me from doing yoga, the real reason I came to Montanita, and sweating like I just jumped in the ocean. I didn’t realize how bad my body was craving it. Just what the doctor ordered (well not lack of sleep and sunburned despite my endless reapplications of sunscreen – but you know what I mean).
My new friends.
I stayed at a hostel in hopes of meeting people, as any solo traveler does. Casa del Sol (https://casadelsolmontanita.com/) and the guests were what made this week what it was. Between the hostel’s tropical atmosphere, welcoming environment and staff, wonderful amenities, and friendly travelers from all over the world, I was never disappointed. I met people from Canada, Australia, Norway, Belgium, Canada, Israel, Finland, Argentina, and all over the states. Our international crew made dinners together, stayed up late explaining different phrases from their respective countries (I learned a lot), hit the town dancing, went to local jam sessions to see musicians in their element, watched the sunset together and became quite close. I met some amazing and interesting people that I can now call my friends. What is crazy to think is we will never be able to recreate that week together. I tried to cherish the time together being present and feel grateful that I got to share those memories with them. For that reason, I took hardly any photos on this trip. Typically, you don’t take your phone out to the bars or on the beach because of petty theft in crowded places so I left the phone in the hostel so I don’t have any quality photos to share. I hope my new friends are smiling while reading this. I know I am.
The jen essentials for montanita.
- Sunscreen (I think you all know why at this point)
- Dancing shoes (AKA sandals because you walk to the bars on the beach and the bars have sand as dance floors)
- Hearty breakfast (need this for energy in yoga and to start the day off right)
- The love for seafood (the fish and ceviche is fresh and plentiful, so better enjoy it!)
- Fan (rooms are not air conditioned, so be ready to sleep sweat)
- Bug spray (mosquitos are savage – I learned that the hard way the first night and dealt with it the entire week…don’t do that)
- Yoga mat (no explanation needed)
- Love of music (live music, reggaeton, and techno – its loud and the heartbeat of Montanita)
- A great hostel (my experience would not have been the same without Casa del Sol – I cant wait to return)
- Cash (credit cards are not a thing and if they are there is a 10-20% fee to use it)
Wrap it up jen.
Solita means alone, however, I never once felt alone while in Montanita! I was surrounded by incredible people in a picture-perfect town. I can see why people I met have been coming here for 10+ years, bought property and live half the year here. It really is a magical place. I was tempted to extend my stay by a few days because I didn’t want to say bye. But there is so much to explore and if I didn’t go, I don’t know if I ever would have. I gave hugs, got in the cab to the bus station and turned around as the car drove off to a group of people clapping and waving. It was a moment I will never forget.
Next up: time to get my adventure on in Banos, Ecuador located on the edge of the Amazon rainforest.
Signing off for now,
Jennifer