Punta Carnero Surf Spot, Ecuador
Playa Punta Carnero, José Luis Tamayo, Salinas, Santa Elena, Ecuador
Guide updated
Quick answer
Where is Punta Carnero?
Punta Carnero is a beach break near José Luis Tamayo in Ecuador. Best season: April–October. Level: Intermediate to Advanced. GPS: -2.2911, -80.9157.
| Location | José Luis Tamayo, Ecuador |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | -2.2911, -80.9157 |
| Wave type | Beach break |
| Direction | Left / Right |
| Wave quality | Good - Regional Classic |
| Best season | April–October |
| Best swell | S - SW |
| Tide | Mid to High tide - Mid Tide is best |
| Consistency | Generally consistent |
| Skill level | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Crowds | Light crowds, with a few local surfers |
About This Break
Punta Carnero is one of the best-known high-energy surf destinations on Ecuador's Santa Elena Peninsula. Located just south of Salinas, this long, exposed stretch of coastline receives consistent Pacific swell and produces powerful left- and right-breaking waves.
The beach is known for its punchy takeoffs, shifting sandbars, and hollow sections when conditions align. Strong currents and substantial surf make Punta Carnero especially attractive to intermediate and advanced surfers seeking challenging waves away from the more sheltered beaches of Salinas.
Local Knowledge
Strong currents, powerful shorebreak, shifting sandbars
Punta Carnero: Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Punta Carnero?
Punta Carnero is a beach break near José Luis Tamayo in Ecuador. Its GPS coordinates are -2.2911, -80.9157.
When is the best time to surf Punta Carnero?
The best season to surf Punta Carnero is April–October. It works best on s - SW swell. Tide: mid to High tide - Mid Tide is best. Consistency: generally consistent.
Is Punta Carnero good for beginners?
Not really. Punta Carnero 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. Strong currents, powerful shorebreak, shifting sandbars.
