Galápagos

“The natural history of these islands is eminently curious, and well deserves attention” – Charles Darwin

We all have our favorite surf destinations; Latin America, the West Coast, remote islands in the South Pacific, the Caribbean, scattered along the coast of Africa and Australia.  We brace for long flights in exchange for less crowded waves and better weather.  Once surfers have their favorite place, there is a reluctance to try new locations instead of the usual go-to spots (if you always surf in Montauk and are reading this, that likely resonates).

Sometimes an opportunity arises in the world or your life when you must shift your plans, and that may be the perfect time to try something novel and unexpected.

Welcome to the Galápagos, a chain of islands that is perpetually shifting and evolving off the coast of mainland Ecuador.  Pleasant surprises include a manageable flight duration, ease of transferring planes and the time zone difference of just two hours behind the east coast.  Here you will also find world-class waves, consistently warm weather and wildlife you will not see anywhere else in the world.

The people are friendly and so far, surfers are not known for being territorial over their waves.  Ninety-seven percent of this chain of islands is designated as protected National Park while the three percent remaining is for humans, naturally reducing the numbers of local surfers.  You will share waves with Marine Iguanas, playful Sea Lions, and agile Sea Turtles among the many unparalleled types of unique animals of the Galápagos.

The land and ocean are pristine, and far from a mainstream option, this archipelago offers gentle waves, hollow reef breaks and a range of beginner to expert surf.  All year long you can expect North and South Pacific swells with its location on the Equator, with the warmer season ranging from December through May, and stronger swells with cooler water from June through November.  The islands of San Cristóbal, Isabela and Santa Cruz have waves that rival the dramatic volcanic backdrop, with white sand and turquoise water contending with the French West Indies.

Board inventory is limited so you will have to bring your own gear, a 3/2 for colder months, neoprene top for the warm season.  As surfers are constantly searching for the untouched break that was (fill in the blank) before it became (fill in the blank).   The Galápagos could be Costa Rica, Indonesia and Peru rolled up into one. But it will always be the only place to surf with Sea Lions in the line-up.

Happy Surfing!