The Galapagos Islands offer surfers a truly unique experience, with untouched waves rolling in on remote black sand beaches. Home to some of the best surf spots you’ve likely never heard of, these islands provide the perfect escape for those seeking adventure off the beaten path.
A Brief History of Surfing in the Galapagos
Surfing has only relatively recently been discovered in the Galapagos Islands. For much of the islands’ history since their formation and discovery in the 16th century, they remained isolated and difficult to access. As such, watersports were not really a consideration for visitors.
It wasn’t until eco-tourism really took off in the 1970s and 1980s that visitors started surfing the island breaks on a larger scale. Early pioneers brought boards and wetsuits with them on research trips, and word of mouth spread about some of the spectacular, untouched surf.
In the 1990s, the first surf shops and board rentals emerged in towns like Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island. Surf camps and tours began catering to adventure travelers seeking great waves.
Since then, the surfing profile in Galapagos has steadily grown. More high-performance longboards, shortboards, and even foils can now be rented. Swell charts are monitored, and surf forecasting helps optimize trip timing.
While low-key compared to international surf destinations, the Galapagos now consistently attract surfers from around the world keen to experience surfing in such a unique natural environment. Let’s explore some of the top spots.
Surfing Destinations in the Galapagos Islands
Isla Santa Cruz (Indefatigable Island)
As the site of the largest town (Puerto Ayora) and the most developed tourism infrastructure, Santa Cruz sees the bulk of Galapagos surf visitors. Key breaks include Tortuga Bay, a long sandy pointbreak known for its consistency, and Las Grietas, a more fickle beach break when it works.
Beginner to intermediate level surfers will find plenty of opportunities at both spots. Water visibility is excellent for viewing marine life. Sea lions often play close to surfers, a memorable experience unique to the islands.
The coastline areas are easy to access by boat or short taxi rides from Puerto Ayora. Cafes and accommodation options abound both in town and further afield like neighbouring Santa Fe Island.
Isla Isabela (Albemarle Island)
Home to world-class point and reef breaks when conditions are right, Isabela showcases big true surf and is a mecca for advanced surfers chasing larger swells. Famous spots include Punta Albemarle, a beastly A-frame right, and Puerto Villamil, with its mix of lefthand reef and pointbreak options.
Getting there involves private boat transfers or live-aboard trips, as there are no services right on the breaks. Accommodation is available in the town of Puerto Villamil, where a quaint, high-season vibe emerges. Expect few other surfers at the more remote spots.
Other Islands
The number of surf spots increases the further you explore the outer lesser-known islands. Española, San Cristobal, and Fernandina islands all hold gems like gorgeous Punta Suarez and colorful Witch’s Rock on Española and year-round waves at Punta Carola on San Cristobal.
Experienced surfers looking to truly get off the grid will find the most untamed, deserted breaks on islands like Genovesa and Marchena. Multi-day private liveaboard charters are usually required for access to the farthest flung surf destinations.
Planning Your Surf Trip Logistics
Now that we’ve covered the top surfing regions, here are some tips for planning your Galapagos surf trip:
Timing Your Visit
Best months for surfing are January-June, as that’s the Austral winter swells season. July- December tends to be smaller and more inconsistent. Always check forecasts in advance.
Travel/Access
Most visitors fly into Baltra or San Cristobal airport and transfer by boat, but chartering direct to remote islands is an option too. Liveaboard trips are the best way to access the outer islands.
Equipment
Bring all essential gear or rent from surf shops like Galapagos Surf Shop or Galapagos Warrior Surf in Santa Cruz. High-quality shortboards and longboards work well.
Permits and Regulations
A $100 National Park entry fee applies. Surfing is allowed in designated areas with restrictions on equipment to protect wildlife. Guides are mandatory for far islands.
Accommodation
Lodges, hotels, and hostels are available on the main islands. Consider camping/basic facilities in outer locations. Liveaboards include meals and accommodation.
Tours/Activities
Numerous multi-day guided surf tours include transport, permits, meals, and guiding to different spots. Private transfers and day trips are also offered between islands.
Now that you understand the landscape of surfing possibilities in the Galapagos, I hope this guide has inspired plans for your own surf adventure! Let me know if you have any other questions.
FAQ about Surfing in the Galapagos Islands
What wildlife encounters might surfers experience?
Marine life is incredibly abundant due to the protected waters. Sea lions are guaranteed companions at many breaks, sometimes even hopping on boards with surfers! Seeing playful sea lions, friendly rays, sharks, tropical fish, and occasionally humpback whales adds to the magic of surfing here.
What is the water temperature like for surfing?
As the islands straddle the equator, water temperatures remain a consistent 70-80°F (21-27°C) year-round. This means surfers can wear 3/2mm wetsuits comfortably. Many opt for rashguards or boardshorts only. The tradeoff is you won’t need as much sun protection on land.
How big do waves generally get in the Galapagos?
Wave sizes vary depending on location and swells. Average waist-head high waves are common, but many spots can handle overhead+ surf during Austral winter when southwest swells are pumping. Locals like Isabela and remote northern islands have the potential for very large surf during major storms. Beginners should focus on more consistent spots.
What kind of marine life precautions should surfers take?
While sharks are present, attacks are very rare due to conservation efforts. Stay aware of your surroundings, and don’t surf alone. Try not to surf at dawn or dusk when they feed. Give sea lions space, and don’t feed them. Use reef-safe sunscreen to avoid coral bleaching and damage. Respect closed seasons and nesting sites when surfing close to shore. Most dangers come from marine wildlife interactions encouraged by humans.
What gear do surfers need beyond normal equipment?
Besides your board/wetsuit/leash/etc. pack essential spares, a waterproof camera to capture marine friends, polarised sunnies, reef safe sunscreen, first aid kit, water bottle, cash/cards. For remote multi-day surf trips bring extra snacks/food, dry clothes, mosquito repellent, headlamp/batteries, knife/multipurpose tool. Local guides provide majority of necessary safety/camping/food equipment on tours.
Where can surfers learn more about wave forecasts, conditions, and guidance?
Some top resources for research and bookings include:
Surf Forecast Ecuador (conditions/swell period/maps), Galapagos Surfari (multi-day guided surf trips), Galapagos Gringo (day trips/transfers), Ultimate South Pacific (liveaboard charters) and GalapagosWaveReport Instagram for local spot updates. Chat with shops like Galapagos Surf Shop in Puerto Ayora, too. Ask them or your accommodation for local guide referrals.
