Guide to Ecuador windsurfing holidays

Ecuador’s tropical coastline and inland lakes offer plenty of opportunity for windsurfers to get out onto the water. Its gorgeous white sand beaches, incredible wildlife and colourful culture help seal the deal. Take an Ecuador windsurfing trip and explore this must-see part of the world while you take on its wind.

Ecuador has several beaches where you’ll get reliable winds for most of the year. December to July is the best time to go, with winds reaching up to 25 knots. Finding rental equipment and lessons can be tricky, so plan ahead.

The best windsurfing beach in Ecuador is Santa Elena, in the popular tourist area of Salinas. The wind blows stronger there than anywhere else, and there is plenty of swell for wave-sailors to enjoy. Salinas itself is known as Ecuador’s answer to Miami: expect plenty of high-rise hotels and a party atmosphere.

Along the northern coast, head to Atacames. This is a popular surf and party town that attracts plenty of local as well as foreign tourists to its beaches. It can be difficult to find a flat spot, but if you’re after waves, Atacames delivers. As with Salinas, surfing is more popular than windsurfing, so you’ll need to hunt for rental gear.

Inland, head north to Calima Lake in Colombia. The lake is well set up for windsurfing and other sports. There are plenty of hire shops and windsurf schools, and the flat water is a great place to learn or practise tricks.

An Ecuador windsurfing trip offers the chance to have a real windsurfing adventure. Explore the land of the Andes and the Amazon, take a trip to the Galapagos, and get out on your board and ride.