La FAE Surf Spot, Ecuador
Playa de la FAE (La Lobería), Base de la Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana, Salinas, Santa Elena, Ecuador
Guide updated
Quick answer
Where is La FAE?
La FAE is a reef break near Base de la Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana in Ecuador. Best season: May–October for southern swells; surf possible year-round. Level: Intermediate to advanced. GPS: -2.2023, -80.9966.
| Location | Base de la Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana, Ecuador |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | -2.2023, -80.9966 |
| Wave type | Reef break |
| Direction | Left primarily / Right |
| Wave quality | Good - Regional Classic |
| Best season | May–October for southern swells; surf possible year-round |
| Best swell | S - SW - NW |
| Tide | ow tide for the left point; rising tide can also work |
| Consistency | Regular to highly consistent |
| Skill level | Intermediate to advanced |
| Crowds | Light to Moderate |
About This Break
La FAE is a surf spot associated with the military-controlled coastal area of the Salinas Peninsula. Unlike the wide-open beach breaks to the south, this area is characterized by a more complex shoreline, with wave conditions influenced by rocky formations, swell direction, and the shape of the coast.
When the right swell arrives, surfers may encounter defined, faster-breaking waves that offer a different experience from Punta Carnero. Access is an important consideration, as military installations and restricted zones occupy portions of the peninsula. Visitors should verify current public access before planning a surf session.
Local Knowledge
Military-controlled access, shallow rocky reef, strong currents, intermediate-to-advanced surfing conditions, low-tide preference, protected marine wildlife, and limited facilities.
La FAE (La Lobería): Frequently Asked Questions
Where is La FAE?
La FAE is a reef break near Base de la Fuerza Aérea Ecuatoriana in Ecuador. Its GPS coordinates are -2.2023, -80.9966.
When is the best time to surf La FAE?
The best season to surf La FAE is May–October for southern swells; surf possible year-round. It works best on s - SW - NW swell. Tide: ow tide for the left point; rising tide can also work. Consistency: regular to highly consistent.
Is La FAE good for beginners?
Not really. La FAE is rated Intermediate to advanced, so it suits surfers who can already paddle out, read the lineup and take off on their own; beginners should start somewhere gentler. Military-controlled access, shallow rocky reef, strong currents, intermediate-to-advanced surfing conditions, low-tide preference, protected marine wildlife, and limited facilities.
