El Faro

El Faro is a beach break producing both left and right-hand waves over a sandy bottom threaded with rocks that require careful navigation during entry and exit. The break responds best to southern groundswell combined with offshore winds from the north-northwest. It works across all tide stages but can expose additional rock hazards at lower tides. Winter brings the most consistent rideable conditions; April is particularly noted as a peak month for waves. The water temperature requires a full wetsuit year-round.

The Galapagos became known for surfing only in the late 1970s when Ecuadorian workers and sailors stumbled upon rideable waves. The islands remained under the radar of international surf travel through the 1980s and 1990s, known only to a small number of locals and the occasional visiting boat surfer. By 2018, the spot had gained enough recognition to host the ALAS Latin Tour competition, though participation by local surfers in larger contests remains rare due to the prohibitive cost of traveling to mainland Ecuador or other Latin American events.

Access requires either a roughly 20-minute walk from El Anclote over rocky terrain or a ride in a panga—the local water taxi offering faster passage. Puerto Villamil has developed basic surf infrastructure, with a couple of shops providing board rentals and beginner instruction, though equipment availability fluctuates.