The beaches of Canoa, Ecuador

3rd April 2008The quiet fishing town of Canoa sits on a wide stretch of sand - one of the few places on Ecuador’s coast whose beach actually grew following the disastrous 1997–1998 El Niño season. With more hammocks per capita than any other coastal town, Canoa is a very tranquil alternative to other louder beach spots – in fact it is synonymous with tranquility. The white beaches are deemed to be within the top rated beaches in Ecuador, if not the entire Pacific coast of South America, and it is not hard to see why. The endless waves, wonderful weather, delicious local seafood, array of cocktail bars and friendly local atmosphere puts Canoa on the must see list for every serious relaxation seeker. Although Canoa is relatively well known it has managed to retain its small town charm and budget friendly prices. Canoa boasts a good number of hotels, cabañas, hostels and inns and with these come a variety of services and of course price tags.Although the natural elements of Canoa make for the perfect sun soaked, water sport holiday, the evenings are anything but dull. If you are that way inclined, Canoa offers numerous bars and a buzzing nightlife to ensure your days in the sun are rounded off in true holiday style – with a good cocktail or two.If the small town life is what you crave but at the same time you want to see a bit more of Ecuador then you can. Along the shore north is Cabo Pasado, a small village where monkeys can be seen in the forest. Following to the north from Canoa is a small market center of Jama, and if you want to experience the big lights then Quito is a mere 7 hours drive away.