Since my first time kiteboarding in the late 90's in Ecuador, the areas have got a little more modern, but the conditions and the people are still as good as ever. Peru is right next door to this excellent kite spot. When you arrive in the Ecuador kiting spot "Brisas Veijas" (old wind) you see wide beaches, palapas, waves up wind, calm areas out front and the occasional spray of a whale.

Daily side shore winds and friendly people are the normal. The area has something for ever kiter and non kiter.Long down winders, waves to learn on and also to challenge even the best pro. The culture of the area helps you unwind and remember how simple things should be. My hosts Wvaladmir, Nicole and Davo  took us kiting in spots till our arms hurt and then lead us on tours of history and tradition that you will rarely find in the world. You will have many stories to tell about your adventures once you leave Ecuador.

Aloha, Paul Menta

Kitehouse Ecuador FAQs

What is the official site name?
Santa Marianita

What is the best time of the year to hit this spot?
High season is June through November

What is the best internet site to check the wind/conditions?
www.humboldtkites.com & www.thekitehouse.com

How do I get there (airport, driving, parking)?
Your can fly into Guyaquil airport and get a 3 hour ride to manta, but the better way is fly into Quito, then flight into manta. This year they should have flights from Miami to Manta. The kite house Ecuador picks you up at the airport.

What is the usual wind direction?
Southwest, sideshore

What gear should I be sure to pack?
9m and 12 meter are the normal kites, 133-139 boards (schools have surf boards) Shorties or neoprene tops, hoodies and long sleeves for at night. Remember it's their winter, so it's 80 in the day and high 60's at night, can feel cool.

What conditions should I avoid?
Point breaks and unmarked places. Humboldt Kites and the Kitehouse serve as guides in the area and you are better off with them. You save time and also know when and where to go.

What is the launch/landing like?
4 mile long beach that is very wide.

What are some of the best places to eat nearby (name a few, preferably from the local roadside stand to the special night out restaurant i.e. from very cheap to gourmet)?
At the beach there is Playa Bonita's and the Kitehouse does pizza on the weekends. In town you want to go to Alcatraz for unreal seafood and more. Los 3 platos and fugos pizza and for chicken and beef, juventud on 24th street.

Who are the local schools and shops?
Humboldt Kites and the Kitehouse

Is there a local association?
One is being formed as we speak.

Where should I stay?
The only place to stay for kiters is the Kitehouse Ecuador as you get breakfast there private beautiful rooms, dinner if you choose or nightly socials. There is wireless internet, bbq pit and more.

What is the nightlife like?
In town all open air bars and fun walking around, you can party or hang out at the house and talking kiting, there are lots of options for all.

What else is there to do if I get skunked? Stand up paddle board, surf, snorkel, day trips to Isla Plata (the poor man's Galapagos), walking around Monte Cristi town and whale watching.

Is there anything else I need to know about riding this spot? They have rules for each beach and spot for the times of year, so check with Humboldt Kites.

Are there any safety issues or rules I need to know about? The areas are very clean and safe. People are friendly and can usally manage some English to guide you along. The town is very modern, so you have all supplies you need and pharmacies, the riding spots are more rural, so you should bring what ever is needed. There are no mosquitos.

Are there any interesting bits of trivia about this spot?

• They use the US dollar
• Manta is the tuna capital of the world
• Panama Hats are hand made in Monte Cristi Ecuador, NOT Panama, you have to see it
• Hump back whales are seen daily June - late August
• The Humboldt current causes the reaction there to have constant winds

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