Where to Drink in Montanita, Ecuador

The seaside village of Montanita attracts hordes of young holidaymakers looking for a good time, and a multitude of drinking venues have sprung up as a result.

Think of Montanita as Ecuador’s version of Cancun without the glitz, and a distinct focus on backpackers. High season is January and February, when university students from all over South America travel around the continent.

Time your visit for this period to see the town at its best, and beat the crowds with these handy tips on where to drink. Stands serving cocktails line the street down to the beach at the far end of town, and offer the perfect opportunity to grab a drink as you watch the sunset over the bay.

As the night gets underway, head into Cana Grill, a half-indoor, half-outdoor venue where the crowd dances to live music on a sandy dancefloor. As you are getting warmed up, head over to Hola Ola, which runs a weekly Ladies Night on Thursdays and is packed over the weekend as well.

Meander down the main strip and grab a bite to eat from one of the street vendors, buy a beer and watch Montanita’s raucous nightlife go by. Opening hours tend to vary depending on the whims of the police force, but it’s more than likely there will be an after party at one of the bars on the beach for those that want to carry on the festivities.