Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
rock
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
steep
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
5 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
rock
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
required
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
500 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa de la Chocolatera: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — blue, clarity moderate, average temperature +24.0°C, warms up to +26.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa de la Chocolatera: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — strong. Average wave height — 2.0 m. Strong waves will please surfers but require caution when swimming with children.
Playa de la Chocolatera: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — steep. The shallow area extends for 5 metres from the shore. Bottom — rock. Special water shoes (aqua shoes) are required — the bottom has rocks, corals or sea urchins. The steep entry requires extra care, especially with children.
Playa de la Chocolatera: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — rock. Sand colour — grey. Texture — coarse. Beach length — 500 metres.
Playa de la Chocolatera: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December, January. It ends in April. The best month for a holiday is December. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa de la Chocolatera: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa de la Chocolatera: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sea lions. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa de la Chocolatera: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa de la Chocolatera: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Playa de la Chocolatera: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurante La Chocolatera, Mar y Tierra. Cuisines available: Ecuadorian. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa de la Chocolatera: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Water, Cash, Camera, ID.
Playa de la Chocolatera: when is the best time to swim?
Best time to visit is December to April when the weather is dry. Surfing is only for experienced riders at low tide.
Playa de la Chocolatera: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming prohibited. Do not approach cliff edges. ID required for access to the base.
Playa de la Chocolatera: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa de la Chocolatera: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for extreme surfing enthusiasts and those wanting to see Ecuador-s westernmost point with dramatic cliffs and powerful waves. Not suitable for families with children or casual swimmers.
Playa de la Chocolatera: what makes this beach unique?
Ecuador-s westernmost point and the place where Pacific Ocean waves create a -chocolate- foam effect. Part of the REMACOPSE marine reserve with rich marine fauna.
Playa de la Chocolatera: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Ecuador-s westernmost point, Dramatic cliffs, Powerful waves, Unique landscape, Sea lion watching, Part of marine reserve, White foam from waves. Cons: Swimming prohibited due to dangerous currents, Access restricted by military base, Beach can only be viewed from above, Strong waves, No infrastructure, Limited access.
Playa de la Chocolatera: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: La Chocolatera Lighthouse, REMACOPSE Marine Reserve. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa de la Chocolatera: how do I get to the city of Salinas?
The beach is located near the city of Salinas. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Salinas.