Operation Ecuador:
Ballenita Beach
In 2011, ISLA conducted its first operation in Ecuador, partnering with Project Ecuador, a pioneering initiative focused on improving water safety and reducing drownings along Ecuador’s coastline. During this inaugural effort, ISLA deployed a team of five international lifeguards to support local program development, training, and operational mentoring.
That first operation was part of a broader collaborative effort that saw more than 30 lifeguards participate in Project Ecuador, helping establish foundational lifesaving practices and professional standards in coastal communities facing significant water safety challenges.
In 2026, ISLA will return to Ecuador for its second operation in the country, conducting lifesaving training at Ballenita Beach in collaboration with a local lifeguard organization. Building on the groundwork laid during ISLA’s first operation, this deployment will focus on advancing training standards, developing local instructors, and strengthening long-term lifesaving capacity through hands-on education and international collaboration.
ISLA Operation Ecuador 2026 offers volunteers the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful return mission—supporting a community where professional lifesaving began through global partnership and continues to grow through shared knowledge and commitment.
Stories from the frontlines
Operation Ecuador
March 22 - 30, 2026
Apply Now!
Location
City: Ballenita, Santa Elena
Information
Application Window: Jan 25 - Feb 8, 2026
Applications Due: February 8, 2026
Applicants Notified: Before February 9, 2026
Operation Leader: Nick Schriver
ISLA Gnar-Factor 3.75
Max Number of Volunteers: 10
Cost: Airfare + $750
Join ISLA as we return to Ecuador and help build the next chapter of professional lifesaving along the Pacific coast.
Ecuador’s coastline features powerful surf, strong currents, and increasing recreational use, making professional lifeguard training more critical than ever. In 2026, ISLA volunteers will conduct training at Ballenita Beach, working alongside a local lifesaving organization to support instructor development and operational best practices.
Operation Ecuador provides volunteers the opportunity to work hands-on with local lifeguards, share experience-based knowledge, and help strengthen long-term water safety capacity through education and collaboration.
When training wraps up, volunteers will experience Ecuador’s coastal culture, natural beauty, and welcoming communities—creating an operation that blends impact, connection, and adventure.
Important Dates & Itinerary
January 26, 2026
Volunteer Applications Open
February 8, 2026
Volunteer Applications Close
February 9, 2026
Selected Volunteers Notified
February 15, 2026
$250 Non-refundable Deposit & Membership Due
February 22, 2026
Airfare Purchase Due
March 1, 2026
Travel Insurance Due
March 8, 2026
$500 Non-Refundable Operation Donation Due
March 15, 2026
ISLA Exams Due
Sunday March 22, 2026
ISLA Team Arrives in José Joaquín De Olmedo Airport (GYE)
March 23, 2026
Travel to Playa Ballenita Beach/ Prep Day
March 24 - 26, 2026
Conduct ISLA Basic Open Water Course
March 27 - 28, 2026
Rest / Tour Days
March 29, 2026
Travel to Guayaquil
Monday March 30, 2026
ISLA Team Departs
Operation Donation Amount
$750 USD
Included in the Operation Donation
- Lodging for the duration of the operation
- Lunch during Volunteer Instructor Portions (approximately 3 days)
- In-country ground transportation
- Full ISLA uniform
- Equipment donations
NOT Included in the Operation Donation
- Round Trip Airfare to (GYE) AJosé Joaquín De Olmedo Airport (tickets from LAX range from $800 – $1200 USD)
- Visa Fee (varies by country)
- Travelers Insurance (varies)
- 1 Year ISLA Membership ($50)
- Optional extended travel
Language Requirement
*There is no language requirement for this operation, although lifeguards who are bilingual Spanish, and have training experience will be given priority in the application process.
What else is included?
Transportation: we work with our hosts, close relationships and sponsors, etc. to get this covered. Usually for the entire trip from airport to airport
Food: We work with our host, sponsorship, and friends to cover food during the work portions of ths trip. usually about half of the meals are covered for the whole trip
Housing: We work with sponsord, our hosts, etc. to get this sponsored during the work portions of the trip.
Experience: ISLA trips are generally cheaper than typical Travel, and allow you to make lifeling friends while making a difference. you ALSO gain professional knowledge of others while sharing your own skills.