Swap the saddle for the sand and discover the Pacific Coast’s best-kept secret

When planning an independent journey through South America, the majestic peaks of the Andes and the dense greenery of the Amazon basin often dominate the itinerary. However, the coastal regions of Ecuador offer an equally compelling narrative for those who prefer to travel at their own pace. 

Nestled along the famous Ruta del Spondylus, Olón is a serene fishing village that has slowly transformed into a haven for slow travel enthusiasts. Unlike its boisterous neighbour to the south, Montañita, Olón retains an authentic, laid-back charm that invites visitors to pause, breathe, and immerse themselves in the rhythm of the Pacific Ocean. 

At Wheely Tyred, we understand that the best travel experiences are rarely found by rushing from one crowded landmark to the next. Instead, they are discovered when you take the time to truly know a destination. Here are the top attractions that make Olón an essential stop on your Ecuadorian adventure.

The whispering waves of the Spondylus Route

Olón is a destination where the rhythm of the Pacific meets the quiet resolve of the coastal cloud forest. It is a sanctuary for the independent traveller who seeks authenticity over artifice and prefers a wide-open horizon to a crowded boardwalk.

• Playa Olón: An expansive stretch of golden sand and gentle breaks, offering a tranquil alternative to the region’s busier surf hubs
• Santuario Blanca Estrella del Mar: A striking ship-shaped chapel perched on a cliffside, providing the most spectacular panoramic views of the coastline
• Dos Mangas Eco-Trails: A lush inland detour into tropical cloud forests where howler monkeys, waterfalls, and traditional straw weaving define the landscape
• Montañita & La Punta: The vibrant, bohemian heart of the coast, located just a short distance away for those seeking high-energy surf culture and artisan street food
• Ayangue Bay: Known as the swimming pool of the Pacific, this protected horseshoe bay is a haven for calm-water swimming and exceptional coastal gastronomy
• El Pelado Islet: A premier marine reserve reachable by boat, offering world-class snorkelling and diving amongst sea turtles and manta rays
• Coastal Connectivity: The flat, scenic roads surrounding the village make it a perfect base for exploring neighbouring hamlets and inland trails by bike

Playa Olón

The undisputed centrepiece of the village is Playa Olón, a magnificent stretch of golden sand that seems to extend endlessly towards the horizon. Unlike many popular coastal destinations that suffer from overcrowding and commercialisation, this beach remains remarkably pristine and tranquil. The sheer scale of the shoreline ensures that you will always find a quiet spot to lay your towel and watch the rolling waves. 

For those looking to test their balance on a surfboard, the conditions here are highly favourable. The beach features a smooth, sandy bottom without treacherous rocks, and the waves provide a consistent, gentle break that is perfect for beginners and seasoned surfers seeking a relaxed session. 

Beyond surfing, the beach is a vibrant hub of local life. As the afternoon sun begins to dip low in the sky, local vendors set up small stalls selling fresh ceviche and shaved ice treats. Sitting on the warm sand with a bowl of freshly prepared seafood, watching the sky ignite in shades of fiery orange and deep purple, is an experience that perfectly encapsulates the appeal of Olón.

Santuario Blanca Estrella del Mar

Perched dramatically on a high rocky cliff that separates Olón from Montañita, the Santuario Blanca Estrella del Mar is one of the most visually striking architectural landmarks on the Ecuadorian coast. 

Designed to resemble a large ship facing the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, this Catholic sanctuary offers both spiritual solace and breathtaking panoramic views. The open-air design allows the constant sea breeze to flow through the nave, creating an atmosphere of profound peace and reflection. 

Visitors are drawn here not only for the unique structure but also for the unparalleled vantage point it provides. From the edge of the cliff, you can look north over the sweeping curve of Playa Olón and south towards the bustling point break of Montañita. The sanctuary is also home to a shrine of the Virgin Mary, which holds deep significance for the local fishing communities who pray for safe passage on the unpredictable seas. Taking a slow, mindful walk up to this sanctuary in the early morning light is an absolute must for anyone visiting the area.

Dos Mangas eco-trails

While the allure of the ocean is undeniable, the inland surroundings of Olón offer a stark and beautiful contrast. Just a short distance from the coast lies the rural commune of Dos Mangas, a gateway to the lush, tropical cloud forests of the Chongón-Colonche mountain range. 

The community manages a beautifully preserved ecological reserve that features two primary hiking trails. One trail follows the path of a winding river to a series of cascading waterfalls, which flow vigorously during the rainy season, while the other leads deep into dense bamboo forests and natural pools. 

As you trek through the heavy, humid canopy, you are likely to encounter a rich array of biodiversity. Howler monkeys frequently swing through the upper branches, their distinct calls echoing across the valleys, while bright toucans and colourful orchids add flashes of brilliance to the verdant landscape. 

The residents of Dos Mangas are also skilled artisans, traditionally crafting intricate goods from toquilla straw, the material used to make the famous Panamá hat, and carving beautiful jewellery from tagua nuts, often referred to as vegetable ivory.

La Punta and Montañita Beach

For a change of pace, a visit to Montañita is essential. Located just a stone’s throw from Olón, Montañita is world-renowned for its bohemian energy and legendary surf culture. While Olón provides the perfect sanctuary for rest, Montañita offers a vibrant injection of lively street culture. 

The northern end of the beach, known simply as La Punta, features a prominent rocky outcrop that creates a world-class right-hand point break. This specific spot draws professional and advanced surfers from across the globe, and watching them carve through the powerful waves is a thrilling spectacle. 

Away from the water, the streets of Montañita are a sensory overload in the best possible way. The narrow alleys are lined with artisan stalls, bustling cafes, and street food vendors serving everything from traditional empanadas to artisanal pizzas. Exploring this energetic town provides a fascinating contrast to the quiet streets of Olón, highlighting the diverse experiences available on this short stretch of the Spondylus route.

Ayangue and El Pelado Islet

Travelling slightly further south along the coast brings you to Ayangue, a picturesque fishing village nestled within a deeply curved, horseshoe-shaped bay. This unique geographical formation protects the beach from the powerful Pacific swells, earning Ayangue the fitting moniker of the swimming pool of the Pacific. 

The calm, crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for a relaxing swim or a peaceful afternoon lounging in one of the many beachfront cabañas, where you can indulge in some of the finest coastal gastronomy in the province, including rich seafood stews and freshly caught lobster. Ayangue also serves as the primary launching point for boat excursions to El Pelado Islet. This small, uninhabited rocky outcrop, located a few miles offshore, is a premier destination for scuba diving and snorkelling. 

The nutrient-rich waters surrounding the islet support an incredible density of marine life. Divers regularly encounter graceful sea turtles, massive schools of tropical fish, and occasionally even manta rays gliding effortlessly through the blue depths.

The freedom of the coastal roads

While exploring these remarkable sights on foot or by local transport is perfectly viable, there is no better way to experience the Ecuadorian coastline than from the saddle of a bicycle. The relatively flat coastal roads and the gentle sea breeze make this region an absolute joy for cycling enthusiasts. 

Setting up a base in Olón gives you immediate access to a variety of incredible destinations within a twenty-kilometre radius, completely accessible by bike. Just a short ride south brings you to the quiet, tree-lined streets of Manglaralto, while Montañita is practically next door, allowing you to easily pedal over for an afternoon coffee before retreating to your peaceful haven. 

For a slightly more demanding ride, the eight-kilometre journey inland to Dos Mangas takes you away from the coast and into the rolling, green foothills, providing a brilliant change of scenery and a moderate physical challenge. Further afield, local day trips expand your horizons even more. 

You can easily arrange transport to Puerto López, a larger town to the north that serves as the gateway to Machalilla National Park. Here, you can cycle through protected dry forests, relax on the stunning, unspoilt sands of Los Frailes beach, or take a boat tour to Isla de la Plata to witness majestic humpback whales breaching in the open ocean. 

Choosing to explore this vibrant, biodiverse region on two wheels not only reduces your environmental footprint but also allows you to connect intimately with the landscape, stopping whenever a hidden cove or a local roadside stand catches your eye.

Frequently asked questions about the top attractions in Olón