Hostal Laurita Beach

Five rooms in Montañita's quieter El Tigrillo barrio, Hostal Laurita Beach sits a short walk from the surf break that draws riders year-round to this stretch of Ecuador's Santa Elena coast. The outdoor pool and garden offer a retreat from the main strip's noise without losing beach access.

Each room includes air conditioning, private bathroom with bathtub, flat-screen TV, and a safe — practical for surfers carrying gear. A shared kitchen and lounge let longer-staying guests self-cater, and grocery deliveries remove the need to search the village for provisions.

Montañita divides into two zones: the loud party centre and the residential El Tigrillo end, where Laurita sits. Mountain and garden views from the patio confirm the distance from the beachfront chaos. Forty reviews average a 9.5 rating — unusually consistent for a budget hostal.