Soak Up the Sun on an Ecuador beach
Ecuador's western coast is bordered by the South Pacific Ocean and its coastline is made up of many fine beaches of all shapes and sizes. There are also a few islands just off the coast which make for an enjoyable but brief visit. Below is a brief description of the many beaches on Ecuador's coast:
Salinas is perhaps the most well known of all of Ecuador's beaches. Essentially a beach- resort town, it is the place where many locals flock during the high-season for a bit of fun in the sun. Here you can see whales, surf, sea-kayak, skydive, hang-glide, Jet Ski, ski, and yacht. There are also a few thermal baths not too far away that are most enjoyable. Be wary though, Salinas is also the most expensive beach in Ecuador.
Puerto López is a great place to spend a few days. Here you will be able to enjoy sunny beaches and the rhythmic sway of salsa-clubs at night during high-season. The Parque Nacional Machalilla and the Isla de la Plata are accessible from Puerto López and make for fascinating day trips and some amazing sight seeing. Puerto López is definitely one of the must-see beaches of Ecuador.
Montañita is also a highly recommended beach. This beach-based town is constantly in motion and you will find no shortage of things to do and see. You can relax, surf, go wall-climbing, paragliding and much more. Montañita is the perfect place to indulge yourself.
Atacames is a great party spot in Ecuador. Though the beaches themselves are quite beautiful, the real attraction for most visitors to this beach is the constant craziness, drinking and celebration.
Hostería and Pueblo Ecológico Alandaluz is a fascinating place to visit if you have the money. Built as an eco-friendly beachfront resort, it offers plenty of interesting ecotours and nature-related activities.
Salango is a good beach to visit if you intend to see the underwater world of Ecuador. Here you can go snorkeling, scuba diving and also enjoy an interesting, historical look into the ancient cultures that used to live in the area.
Mompiche is quite a popular spot amongst backpackers and surfers. It has big waves, black sand and lots of inexpensive lodging.
Bahía de Caráquez is an upscale town with a lot to see. While the beaches are beautiful, you might spend less time at the sea and more time seeing sights such as the last dry tropical forest in Ecuador.
Súa is a small beach with budget accommodation facilities. Its main attractions are short hikes, coves and good views.
User Comments & Reviews
2010-03-13 16:33:51
Visited the Old Town section of Quito last summer and it is really beautiful. The area has changed a lot and it's well kept and safe with security all around. I had not been there in many years and I was told the government spent millions of dollars to clean it up. I have my airplane tickets for this coming summer and have plans to spend more time in the area. The beach in Atacames is also great to spend time in, the food is marvelous. You just can't beat eating the Ceviche that is prepared fresh before your eyes.
2010-03-09 22:00:51
What is the weather like in december - january? I am going to Quito next year and would also like to visit some of the beaches. Is it too cold that time of year?
2010-02-08 14:11:36
best place to go...LA RUTA DEL SOL its great i love it it a nice place to go have fun relax eat some ceviche omg people go n fell in love with it !! es un lugar espectacular !!1
2010-02-01 14:14:46
Manta is the best beach town in Ecuador by far! Not only for the beautiful local and nearby beaches but also for the variety of activities, services and accommodations offered…from backpacking budget to upscale entertainment…Visit Manta!
2010-01-27 16:51:08
Yes ECUADOR is the best city to go on vacations or to live there,,you should go by the RUTA DEL SOL it take you by the coast of the beachs one point to the other surrounding by only sand and ocean BEAUTIFULLLLLLLLLLL i LOVE IT,,Im planning to go this summer ohh yeahhhhhhhhhhhh, I can't wait, and is cheaper people are nice, polite and the food wowwww DELICIOUS.
2010-01-18 03:01:47
Can someone recommend the best time to visit Ecuador? I'm interested in visiting the beaches and some eco-tours (but nearer to the coasts). Would the month of May be a good time or is that when the weather/waters become cool? Thank you.
2010-01-04 09:02:58
Ocean Hideaway near Salinas was the best -- beautiful and serene and like a private beach. Loved it
2009-12-29 16:51:35
Its a beautiful country with a geat many things to offer. The food is excellent and the people are nice
2009-12-29 02:04:42
I went with my husband 2 years ago. The best was Galapagos Islands and Banos
2009-12-08 16:18:28
Manta me encanta!
2009-11-24 16:02:41
My country is very beautifull, beaches, food and much more for enjoy
2009-11-17 18:47:43
Mi hermoso pais, es necesario conocerlo para darse cuenta la joya que hay en esta tierra, se deberia darle mas realce a los autenticos paisajes y maravillosas playas propongo a las debidas autoridades asupiciar las empresas de turismo y crear mas motivacion en los visitantes extranjeros
2009-11-11 17:01:35
My husban and I visited you all country last year, is very beautiful but the beach in Manta city so wonderful and clean! Why you don't mencion the best beach and show some photos?
2009-11-10 15:35:46
Ecuador beaches are beautiful, don't forget of Manta Beach, is the best place.
2009-11-09 17:45:38
i love Ecuador beaches, but in this page you just find some of them. We have a lot beaches in Ecuador.
2009-10-18 04:43:00
As I have read the article I see the beaches are interesting places.
2009-10-12 10:02:45
does that makes salinas the best to visit for a beginner?
2009-09-25 15:45:04
i hope to go there soon or later and see if its really that beautiful.
2009-09-11 07:58:43
i feel that it is one of the best place to live happily
2009-08-29 16:53:26
es hermoso ecuador
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