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by: Jessica Valenzuela; travel vignette by Nick O’bea

Manta Bay, Ecuador photos courtesy of Nick Obea, The Kitehouse

Manta, Ecuador – Known for its tuna, sea bass, tuna-dolphin combinations, cocoa, ship-building artisans and well-oil. For over a decade Ecuador was in the spotlight over a case against Chevron’s oil drilling polluting practices in the Amazon. Recently, sports tourism is exploring this impoverished country for its great surf and kiteboarding spots.

There are two travel options to get to Manta: 1) fly to Quito and party all night and then take a flight in the morning directly into Manta. 2) fly to Guayaquil and then taxi it all the way for three-hours which will cost you $80. A a first-time visitor, I would prefer to party and fly, to avoid the three-hour drive that may come with unexpected mishaps on the road.

Santa Marianita

The coveted kite spot in Manta is called Santa Marianita or Playa Bonita to the locals. The water is warm and the wind conditions are perfect for an 8m or 12m for lighter wind days. Conditions are open water, so expect some chop since the winds are strong. There are super stokin wave breaks so don’t leave home without the surf board. There is plenty of room for kiters, with over five miles of beach to set up.

Manta is an advanced rider’s paradise. Beginners are welcome, but you must not fear learning to kite in deep water while whale tails splash a few feet from you from time to time. It may be a little distracting when you’re trying to fly a kite, get on the board and ride. IMO.

What is so special about Manta? Nick Obea, co-Founder of the Kitehouse shares “it was my first time I kiteboarded and surfed with dolphins and whales at the same time. The shore break is perfect for using as a kicker as well.” WOW! To have many moments like that captured makes Manta a definite kite spot to visit.

Other beach spots

Where to go for rustic beach kiting lifestyle photos courtesy of Nick Obea, The Kitehouse

The other beaches to visit are El Murciélago, San Lorenzo and Barbasquillo. San Lorenzo is surfer town where you’ll find head high waves. Powerful!

Where to stay

Our friends The Kitehouse with their core base in the Key West, Flats have set up shop in Manta. From around June – September The Kitehouse crew can take you and your party for kite, surf, stand-up-paddle board tours. For kiters who are keen on not using their own gear and prefer to travel light, don’t fret the Kitehouse will rent you a kite. Of course, you are welcome to bring your own. Most serious kiters prefer to fly their quiver.

It is a true wind and water sportsman’s paradise. Nick adds “I loved the whole life style of pure easy living. Wake up and go stand up paddle in the waves, eat breakfast, kite all afternoon and then have a few brews with your friends around a fire, while grilling fresh tuna or sword fish on the beach watching the gorgeous Manta sunset.” Picture perfect beach adventure.

Definitely not resort style, but your rustic and salty beach vacation. Meet me in Manta! Check out the Santa Marianita Flick set.

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Meet in Manta, Ecuador this summer! photo courtesy of Nick Obea, The Kitehouse

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