Ayangue

Ayangue is often affectionately called the "Pool of the Pacific" due to its unique geographical setting. Located within a naturally protected horseshoe-shaped bay, the waters here are exceptionally calm and clear, making it a first-rate destination for swimming, snorkeling, and families with young children. The town itself is small and retains the authentic feel of a traditional Ecuadorian fishing village, where colorful wooden boats bob gently in the harbor and locals haul in their daily catch directly onto the sand. Beyond the tranquil beach, Ayangue is a premier destination for scuba diving. The nearby El Pelado islet provides fantastic dive sites teeming with marine life, including sea turtles, octopuses, and lively coral reefs. Gastronomy here is unsurprisingly centered around the ocean, with fresh lobster and octopus dishes being local highlights served right on the beach. Accessible via a short detour from the main coastal highway from Guayaquil, Ayangue remains relatively uncrowded outside of national holidays. The prime time to visit for diving and clear skies is between December and April.

Nearby cities

La Libertad

The economic center of the Santa Elena Peninsula and an important coastal hub.

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Salinas

Ecuador's most famous seaside resort, known for its high-rises, beaches, and nightlife.

Santa Elena

Santa Elena is the provincial capital, serving as a cultural and commercial hub near some of Ecuador's most beautiful beaches.

Ballenita

Ballenita is a historic fishing village offering scenic ocean views, rich cultural heritage, and traditional coastal charm.

Manglaralto

Manglaralto is a quiet coastal town known for its expansive beach, authentic local vibe, and proximity to Montañita.

Montañita

Montañita is a bohemian coastal town renowned for its world-class surfing waves, energetic nightlife, and free-spirited beach atmosphere.

Olón

A tranquil beach town boasting one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in the country, ideal for families and digital nomads.

Ayampe

Ayampe is a tranquil, eco-friendly beach town nestled between lush jungle and the ocean, ideal for surfing and yoga.

Puerto Cayo

Puerto Cayo is a beautiful coastal village favored for its wide beaches, surfing spots, and humpback whale watching.

Salango

Salango is a tranquil fishing village in Ecuador's Machalilla National Park, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.

Manta

One of the largest port cities in Ecuador, famous for tuna fishing and beautiful beaches.

Montecristi

The true home of the Panama hat and the birthplace of Ecuadorian president Eloy Alfaro.

Jipijapa

The Sultana of Coffee, historically famous for coffee cultivation on the Ecuadorian coast.

Crucita

A scenic fishing village celebrated as a premier destination for coastal paragliding.

Zorritos

A relaxed tropical beach paradise in northern Peru, famous for its warm waters and year-round sunshine.

More places

Palo Santo Distillation

Facilities for the distillation of essential oil from the wood of the Palo Santo tree, valued for its aroma and spiritual purposes.

Machalilla National Park

This park protects the unique tropical dry forest on Ecuador's coast, as well as stunning beaches and nearshore marine ecosystems.

Agua Blanca

The remains of a major city of the Manteño culture on the Ecuadorian coast.

Puerto López Fishing Port

A small but lively fishing port that also serves as a starting point for whale watching tours.

Tagua Processing

Workshops that process the tagua nut, also known as 'vegetable ivory', into buttons, jewelry, and handicrafts.

Pesquera Polar Tuna

A leading company in Manta specializing in the processing and canning of tuna for export.

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Pacoche Forest

A coastal wildlife refuge featuring a unique microclimate that sustains a lush forest in an otherwise dry region.

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Ecuasal Salt Production

The largest salt producer in Ecuador, with modern production facilities on the Pacific coast.