Capaes

Capaes is a left-breaking reef located in the Santa Elena peninsula that produces hollow, fast-breaking waves with consistent barrel opportunities. The break responds well to northwest swells and southeast winds, typically performing best during low to mid tides. While rarely crowded, the reef features strong currents and requires intermediate to advanced wave-reading skills due to the wave's power and shape.

The spot sits within Ecuador's recognized Ruta del Surf, a series of technical breaks in the Santa Elena province that appeal to surfers looking to refine their technique. Capaes forms part of the broader network of coastal points between Playas and Manabí, positioned as one of several reefs and points in an area known for consistent summer swells.

Capaes is located about 5 kilometers from Santa Elena town along the Ruta del Spondylus coastal highway, positioned between Ballenita and the broader Santa Elena beaches. The break sits on a 6-kilometer stretch of coastline approximately 120 kilometers south of Guayaquil, making it reasonably accessible as a day trip or part of a longer coast-touring itinerary.