Surfing in Galapagos Islands

Surf Galapagos - Quick Facts
LOCATION: South America (600 miles off West Coast)
NATIONALITY: Ecuadorian
LANGUAGE: Spanish / Quechua
CURRENCY: US Dollar

The Galapagos Islands (official name: Archipielago de Colon; other Spanish names: Islas de Colon or Islas Galapagos) are an archipelago of volcanic islands that lie on the Equator, 600 miles west of Ecuador and the South American coastline. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site: wildlife is its most notable feature.

Galapagos Surf Spot Map

Please take a moment to add a break or some information to the Galapagos surf map.

Galapagos is very heavy surf and is only recommended for experienced surfers, and if you are planning a trip make sure you have at least 2 boards, one over 7 feet. Breaking your board is a real possibility and your nearest surf shop is a long long long way away. Also make sure you have enough of everything - wax, leashes, sunscreen etc.
Oh, and don't forget your surf travel insurance.

So what about conditions? Surfing is available all year round. The most consistent surf is from May to December, but unfortunately the water is colder at this time. However, being near the equator the water rarely drops below 18 degrees and the quality of the waves will bring warmth to your bones. Trade winds are lightest in January to April so plan your trip for this time of the year if possible.

Big north, north west and west swells pound it's shores during the northern hemisphere winter. Big south swells hit during the southern hemisphere winter season.

The main surfing spots are located on the islands of San Cristobal and Santa Cruz. Waves to check out are Seymour Norde on Santa Cruz and El Canyon and Loberia on the island of San Cristobal. Access to all the waves are made a lot easier with a boat charter.

Surfing Galapagos - The Good
Powerful Reefbreaks
Uncrowded
Your Ornithologist Girlfriend Will Love It

Surf Galapagos - The Bad
Inconsistent
Tough Access To Waves

Galapagos Surfing Conditions

If you have information on surfing the Galapagos Islands we would like to know. Tell us how good or bad your surfing vacation was by posting your trip details here or on our surf travel forum.

A boat is needed to access some of the spots.