The Southern Coast of Ecuador, which is comprised of the Guayas and El Oro provinces, hosts Ecuador’s largest city, Guayaquil. Guayaquil is not a very popular tourist destination for foreigners. However, it has become more developed over the last few years. In particular, the Malecón, or boardwalk, has been cleaned up. It is now filled with trendy restaurants and shops.
Just three hours north of Guayaquil is the surfer's sweet spot, Montañita. With some of Ecuador’s best waves outside of the Galápagos and a lively atmosphere, Montañita is a great place to chill out for a couple of days.
The strip of beaches along the Southern Coast is often referred to as the “Ruta Del Sol.” Those who wish to see more than one beach during their trip to the coast may want to begin their trip in Guayaquil and head southbound to experience the entire route.