If you’re looking for an affordable place to relocate to the beach, then look no further than one of the many beaches in Ecuador. Dotting its shoreline are numerous beach communities, each with its own unique appeal.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat, the hottest up-and-coming destination, or a place you can party all night ’til the sun comes up, this list of Ecuador beaches has something for everyone.

Salinas – A South Beach Vibe in South America

Wikipedia

Salinas is one of the most popular, and probably the most well known, of all of Ecuador’s beaches. Salinas is the place where many locals flock during the high season for a bit of fun in the sun and outdoor activities. Here you can surf, take whale-watching excursions, ride jetskis, paddle a sea kayak, go skydiving or hang gliding, water ski, or take a cruise on a private yacht.

Rinaldo Wurglitsch

When it comes to the Salinas real estate market, what you see is what you get.  And what you get is a whole lot of bang for your buck in terms of beautiful beaches, great weather, modern amenities, and incredible bargains.

Olon – Restful, Relaxing, and Not Too Crowded

Johnny Chunga

When in Olon, both travelers and expats alike take the time to bask in Ecuador’s natural beauty while experiencing the easy pace of the beachcomber’s lifestyle at this lesser known Ecuador beach.  It is no wonder that after a short stay in Olon, many visitors choose to call Ecuador home and invest in Ecuador Real Estate.

Johnny Chunga

Despite the town’s sleepy appearance, there are actually plenty of activities to try while at  Olon Beach. Many people enjoy surfing the waves, hiking to nearby waterfalls, or just taking a dip in the cool waters.

Canoa – Waiting to Be Discovered and Enjoyed

Tripadvisor

Canoa is a relaxed, laid-back fishing village on the Pacific coast. Popular with travelers, yet not overrun by them, it’s an excellent place to chill out for a few days on the beach or even relocate to find the beachcomber’s lifestyle you seek.

TMAC

So far, despite its growing popularity with tourists, surfers, and backpackers, Canoa remains a low-key place, where local kids play outside at dusk and fishermen head out to sea in the early hours before dawn.

Manta – Bustling and Busy

In Manta you’ll find all the services and amenities you’d expect from an established beach town, although it has a bit of an industrial feel. There is a well-organized expat community, but bargain properties are harder to find as the beach now draws many Ecuadorians.

Eric Hutton

While Manta may not be the exact atmosphere that many are looking for in a beach town, its accessibility and abundance of conveniences make it a very easy place to call home. As a result, many Ecuadorians and expats who choose to have a mountain home, as well as a beach home, choose to buy the latter in Manta.

Atacames – A Continual Party Vibe

Hanna Michals

Atacames is one of the best party spots in Ecuador. Though the beaches of Atacames themselves are quite beautiful, the real attraction for most visitors to this beach is the perpetual party atmosphere.

Presidencia de la República del Ecuador

If the party vibe of Atacames is not your thing, you may prefer the nearby residential beach community of Tonsupa, the most popular destination for vacationers from Ecuador’s capital city of Quito.

Honorable Mention: Las Grietas of Santa Cruz Island

Christopher Griner

Las Grietas is a solitary and spectacular beach on Santa Cruz Island. If you want to see it, it’s just a few minutes’ walk once on Santa Cruz Island. While the beach is beautiful, the services there are limited. Be sure to bring a few snacks and drinks. Otherwise, pack your Kindle and hammock and pass the day in quiet beauty.

Which is your favorite beach? Leave us a comment below so we can add it to our list!