The perfect blend of beach life, great food, and easy access to the best of Manabi
Manta is one of Ecuador’s most vibrant coastal cities — a place where fishing boats, surfers, cruise passengers, and seafood lovers all converge under the same bright Pacific sun. Known for its beaches, gastronomy, and easy access to nearby coastal gems, Manta is the perfect base for a relaxed yet adventure‑filled getaway.
What to do in Manta
Relax on El Murcielago Beach (Playa El Murcielago)
Playa Murcielago is the heart of Manta. With a boardwalk full of restaurants and traditional crafts stores, and a vast sand area ideal for sunbathing and just hanging around, this 1,7-km. long beach that owes its name to its shape similar to that of a bat, is one Manta’s most visited attractions.
Murcielago beach is also a well-known spot for sports competitions, hosting every year thousands of national and international tourists that come to compete, be it in a triathlon or in a swimming race.
Visit the Malecon Escenico
Malecon Escenico is Murcielago Beach’s boardwalk. It has a broad variety of seafood and traditional gastronomy restaurants and crafts stores.
Manta’s Central Bank Museum
A small museum in front of the Murcielago Beach, it showcases the local culture, archaeology, and coastal traditions. The entry is free and it is the ideal cultural complement for your visit to the city.
Water sports
Surfing, paddleboarding, and boat tours are widely available. Whale‑watching tours operate from June to October.
How to Get to Manta
- Traveling from Quito, you could go by airplane, by bus, or by car. If you prioritize fastness and comfort and a little less the price, an airplane is your go-to option; the flight duration is about 30 minutes, and a round ticket price could vary between USD 100 and USD 200, depending on the purchasing anticipation and the travel dates. Going by bus or by car usually takes around 8 hours, it could be more or less, depending on the route conditions and traffic. Beware that there is a part of this road that is prone to landslides, which could add extra hours to the trip, so always be informed beforehand on the route’s conditions.
- Traveling from Guayaquil, the most convenient option is taking a bus or driving a car, with an estimated duration of 3 to 4 hours. Try to make the trip during daylight for safety reasons.
Places to visit near Manta
If you are spending just a few days in the Ecuadorian Coast, Manta is the perfect city to make base in, for there are plenty of attractions just a few minutes from there, making it possible to plan one-day round trips.
These are just some of the places you could enjoy in your forthcoming visit to Manta:
San Lorenzo
A quiet beach town with dramatic cliffs and a lighthouse viewpoint. Great for photography and nature walks.
Pacoche Wildlife Refuge
Just 30 minutes away from Manta, this humid forest is home to howler monkeys, birds, and lush vegetation. Ideal for short hikes.
Montecristi
Famous for the Panama hat (which is actually Ecuadorian!) and for being the birthplace of the famous Ecuadorian president Eloy Alfaro. Explore artisan workshops and the historic town center.
Santa Marianita
A windy beach perfect for kitesurfing. It’s also a peaceful alternative to Manta’s busier beaches.
Puerto López
A great day trip if you want to visit Machalilla National Park, Los Frailes Beach, or Isla de la Plata.
Some tips for your trip
- The best months for sunny weather are June to December.
- Whale‑watching season runs June–October.
- Manta is generally safe and easy to navigate, but always take standard travel precautions. Call your cabins and book your tours with legal agencies.
- Enjoy Manta’s nightlife, at Via Barbasquillo, a popular avenue with plenty of restaurants, bars, and discos.
- Delight in Manabi’s traditional cuisine, which is one of Ecuador’s most celebrated and varied.
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