The Galapagos

Surfing

Surfing in the Galapagos Islands is thrilling and also unique, thanks to the rich diversity of wildlife around you, much of it indigenous and rare.

Most locations offer access to consistent waves but, San Cristóbal Island in particular is well known for its excellent surf breaks. Here, visitors will find, La Carola and La Posita, with breaks suitable for beginners when the tide is low, Lobería, a right-hand point break that can get challenging, especially at low tide due to rocks and Tongo Reef, a left-hand reef break with a ‘bowl’ and a section perfect for longboarders. Santa Cruz Island, while not so famiar to many surfers also has a number of great beach breaks, especially south-facing ones such as those found in Tortuga Bay.  It’s not really surprising the archipelag is home to great surfing and world-class waves, it cops swells from all angles, as they arrive from both hemispheres.

While you can surf in the Galapagos year-round, ‘surf season’ in San Cristóbal is generally considered to be from December to March, when northern swells and sunny weather prevail, while in Santa Cruz April through June see regular southwest swells.

The water temperature in the Galapagos is cooler than many expect, so even in the warm season a light wetsuit is recommended. 

Please note:

  • Some surf spots are located within our military bases and permission is required to access them
  • It's easier to rent a board in the Galapagos than to bring your own but, if you're packing, why not bring two boards for variety!
  • The Galapagos is a national park, so it's important to be mindful of the environment and follow park regulations
  • You should be prepared to encounter marine life while surfing, including seals, marine iguanas, and potentially sharks
  • Water temperature in the Galapagos are cooler than many expect, so even in the warm season a light wetsuit might be appreciated, for example a 2mm shortie with boardshorts or perhaps a full 3/2mm.
  • You can book tours that combine surfing in the Galapagos with our other activities

Activity

If surfing the Galapagos is your thing, we are here to make it happen.

Contact us for full details of all the available options :-)

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