Manglaralto

Manglaralto features a serene coastal retreat in the Santa Elena province, serving as a peaceful counterpart to the lively surf town of Montañita, located just a short walk away. Travelers appreciate Manglaralto for its wide, uncrowded beaches, swaying palm trees, and authentic Ecuadorian village atmosphere. It is the first-rate spot for those who want to enjoy the Pacific coast without the intense nightlife, finding solace in the sound of crashing waves. The town is a fantastic gateway to the Dos Mangas ecological reserve, where visitors can hike or horseback ride through tropical dry forests, discovering hidden waterfalls, howler monkeys, and diverse birdlife. The beach itself provides excellent conditions for walking, relaxing, and enjoying spectacular sunsets over the ocean. The surrounding nature is rich, largely untouched, and highly inviting for eco-tourists. Gastronomy here highlights fresh seafood, with ceviche and grilled fish being local absolute favorites. Manglaralto is easily reached by bus along the famous Ruta del Spondylus highway. The best season to visit is from December to May, when the weather is warm and sunny, making it incredibly good for beachgoers, swimmers, and nature explorers alike.

Nearby cities

La Libertad

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

🗺️

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.

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.

Ayangue

A picturesque fishing village set in a horseshoe-shaped bay, known for its calm waters and excellent scuba diving opportunities.

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.

🗺️

Pacoche Forest

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

🗺️

Ecuasal Salt Production

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