Mompiche feels like one of those little hidden spots that time forgot, and that’s such a blessing! While many beloved destinations have become overrun by tourism, Mompiche has maintained its charm. A decade ago, it was a sleepy surf town, and it still holds that same vibe today.
Most travelers visit for the incredible surfing or to relax and disconnect. There’s not much in terms of parties or nightlife, but honestly, that’s what makes it perfect for those who come here.
I’ve been to Mompiche a bunch of times, and I finally have the chance to share my insights on this little paradise in Ecuador with you! I hope this guide on where to stay in Mompiche helps you plan your next surf adventure.
- Where to stay in Mompiche – Best Mompiche Hotels
- Where to stay in Mompiche – Best Areas
- Where to stay in Mompiche for the first time: Mompiche Beachfront (La Punta)
- Where to stay in Mompiche for Backpackers & Cheap Hotels: Mompiche Town
- Where to Stay in Mompiche for Relaxation: Outside of Mompiche
- Where to stay in Mompiche – Frequently Asked Questions
Where to stay in Mompiche – Best Mompiche Hotels
Mompiche isn’t a resort beach town or anything fancy. It’s a small beach town shared by locals and tourists, so life here is super simple. The hotels in Mompiche aren’t the most luxurious, but they’re really charming. Also, especially outside of peak season, you can score some great deals!
Seaside Garden Ecolodge Mompiche
One of the most serene places in Mompiche is undoubtedly Seaside Garden Ecolodge Mompiche. This Mompiche hotel is located about 10 minutes up the coast, just outside the town, making it the perfect getaway. This charming lodge is situated right on the beach, surrounded by nature with no disturbances. With just a handful of rooms, it offers a cozy retreat, serving a delicious breakfast and featuring a restaurant serving super fresh seafood.
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La Casa Mompiche
One of the popular destinations, especially if you’re looking for something affordable with the best prices, is La Casa Mompiche. This cozy guesthouse offers private rooms, family rooms, and dormitories. It’s just 100m from the beach and provides daily breakfast with vegetarian and vegan options. Plus, there’s a beloved and much-needed coffee shop on site!
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Royal Decameron Mompiche
I know I said that Mompiche isn’t really a resort town, which it’s not, but one of the best hotels in Mompiche, especially if you’re traveling with kids, is Royal Decameron Mompiche. It’s a very popular destination for families because it offers that all-inclusive resort feel but on a smaller scale. It features multiple pools, restaurants, and bars, as well as activities for both adults and kids. They also offer other great features like free cancellation and a location within walking distance of the beach.
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The Mudhouse Hostel
For all you backpackers out there, the only proper hostel in Mompiche is the Mudhouse Hostel. It’s a bamboo hut-style place with both dorms and private rooms, and it’s definitely the best spot if you’re looking to socialize. I had an awesome time there; the owners are super friendly, and every evening people gather to have drinks or play games.
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Where to stay in Mompiche – Best Areas
Mompiche is a really small village, and I mean really tiny—literally just a handful of streets, and that’s it. On a city map, it even looks bigger than it actually is.
So, the only real areas here are the beachfront, which is perfect for first-timers and surfers, and the town center where you’ll find all the restaurants and backpacker hostels. To give you a few more options, I’ve also included the surroundings of Mompiche, since there are some awesome hotels around that offer a little more seclusion and relaxation.
Where to stay in Mompiche for the first time: Mompiche Beachfront (La Punta)
The beachfront in Mompiche is absolutely the best spot for first-timers seeking that beachtown vibe. Mompiche is quite small, so whether you stay near the beach or in town, it doesn’t really matter. However, the beachfront does boast some of the best hotels with amazing sea views.
One thing to note is that during high tide, the beach is almost entirely covered by water. But at low tide, you’ll find a large beach to enjoy. Although the sand isn’t super soft, it’s still a fantastic place to relax. Just make sure to check the tide schedule to fully experience the best of Mompiche’s beaches.
Things to do in Mompiche Beachfront
Of course, when you’re in Mompiche, one of the main activities is surfing. The waves here are perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. There are a couple of surf schools in Mompiche, and I totally recommend La Peña Surf School. They have some super cool and friendly instructors, and it’s also really affordable.
However, if surfing isn’t your thing, you should check out the neighboring beach, Playa Negra. It’s only a 20-minute walk and is known for its black sand and it looks really cool.
Best Restaurants in Mompiche Beach
El Rincón del Bolón: My favorite lunch spot here in Mompiche is probably El Rincón. It’s your typical local restaurant and perfect for getting the ‘menú del día,’ which is essentially the dish of the day. It usually includes soup, a main dish, and juice. It’s super tasty, filling, and also incredibly cheap.
Monchie’s Cafe: My go-to spot for morning coffee and a healthy breakfast is definitely Monchie’s. Their coffee is decent—the best I’ve found in Mompiche. They also serve super fresh juices, fruit bowls, and avocado with egg on toast. These breakfast options are perfect for starting the day right.
Where to stay in Mompiche for Backpackers & Cheap Hotels: Mompiche Town
Hey there, fellow travelers! If you’re a backpacker or traveling on a budget, you’ll absolutely fall in love with Mompiche Town. The accommodations here are super affordable, ranging from cozy hostels to budget-friendly guesthouses. The town center is just a handful of streets, but it’s perfect for grabbing your groceries from local markets and tiny shops, or even cooking your own meals if that’s your vibe!
But don’t worry if you’re not into cooking—there are plenty of fantastic cheap eats around town. The street food scene is buzzing! I wish I could remember the name of my favorite spot, but it’s run by this lovely elderly lady who whips up the best empanadas and arepas. They’re absolutely delicious, so I definitely recommend wandering around and discovering these tasty street food spots.
Things to do in Mompiche Town:
Aside from enjoying the laid-back vibe and relaxing on the beautiful beaches, there are a few other activities to check out in Mompiche town. One of my favorites is visiting the local artisan market where you can find unique handcrafted souvenirs and support the local community at the same time.
If you’re feeling adventurous, I highly recommend taking a boat tour through the mangroves. It’s a great way to see some wildlife and explore the surrounding nature. And for those who love surfing or want to learn, Mompiche has some fantastic waves and surf schools that won’t break your budget.
Best Restaurants in Mompiche Town
La Chocolata: I’m not going to lie to you, but the international food scene in Mompiche isn’t mind-blowing. However, if you’re looking for a good burger or pasta, the best place to go is definitely La Chocolata. If you come on the weekend, they’ll be playing live music as well, which is super fun.
Secret Garden Mompiche: Luckily for all vegans and vegetarians, Mompiche has a fully vegan and eco-friendly restaurant called Secret Garden. The menu changes often, according to the owner, but you can always find a local dish, plus delicious vegan empanadas and burgers.
Where to Stay in Mompiche for Relaxation: Outside of Mompiche
If you’re looking to unplug and embrace some social detox, the outskirts of Mompiche might just be your perfect escape. Once you venture out, it quickly turns rural and wonderfully deserted. If you’re staying at a Mompiche hotel like the Seaside Garden Eco Lodge, there won’t be much around, so be aware.
Heads up, though! Most places out here are best reached with your own set of wheels—ideally, a 4×4 or SUV, since you might find yourself cruising over the beach! If you’re car-free, taxis are your go-to option for getting around and definitely necessary.
But let me tell you, once you arrive, it’s all worth it! You’ll be greeted with breathtaking sea views and serene beaches, often having them all to yourself. Just a friendly tip: pack enough cash, as there won’t be any ATMs around.
Things to do outside of Mompiche
Relaxing on the beach here is a must, but there’s so much more to do than just soaking up the sun! When you’re staying at those secluded hotels in Mompiche, you can truly revel in some quality alone time or special moments with your partner.
Many of these hotels offer horseback riding along the beach, which is an absolute blast—especially during sunset! Just a quick tip: always check to make sure the horses look well-fed and happy before you join any tour.
Best restaurants outside of Mompiche
When you’re staying on the outskirts of Mompiche, make sure your accommodation includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner—trust me, it makes all the difference. In my blog post, I mentioned some hotel options that definitely offer great food. The Royal Decameron Mompiche has a few fantastic restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, while the Seaside Garden Ecolodge has a small restaurant with owners who go above and beyond to cater to your needs. Whether you’re vegan or have specific allergies, they’ll whip up some amazing dishes for you! During my stay, I absolutely loved how they took care of everything, making it super easy to just relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Where to stay in Mompiche – Frequently Asked Questions
✅ Is Mompiche worth visiting?
Mompiche is definitely worth visiting for those looking for a quiet and remote beach destination in Ecuador. The town has a laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and great surfing opportunities. It’s also a popular spot for birdwatching and relaxing in nature.
☀️ When is the best time to visit Mompiche?
The best time to visit Mompiche is from December to April when the weather is dry and there are consistent waves for surfing. However, if you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-November. So, better check your travel dates to make sure you’re not planning your beach vacation during the wet season.
🚌 How do I get to Mompiche from Quito?
The easiest way to get to Mompiche from Quito is by taking a night bus from the Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe to Atacames. From there, you can take a taxi or another bus to Mompiche. The journey will take you around 7-8 hours.
💰 Where to stay in Mompiche on a Budget?
If you’re on a budget and don’t want to stay in a hostel, I recommend Raices Mompiche. This eco-friendly hotel offers private rooms at affordable prices and is located just a short walk from the beach. It’s, of course, pretty basic, but it’s safe and clean. The owners and staff are super friendly.
Where to stay in Mompiche – Final Words
If you’re looking for the perfect break from either partying in Ecuador or all that hiking and adventure, I think Mompiche is just the spot. It’s got this super chill vibe that’s perfect for recharging your batteries. If you’re after something relaxed with an authentic experience, Mompiche is your go-to!
I hope my little guide helps you out! I’ve included some of my favorite hotels, hostels, and cool spots like restaurants and cafes to give you more than just the usual ‘where to stay in Mompiche’ article. Dive into your next Ecuador adventure and soak it all in. Happy travels!
