Best Beaches in Ecuador - TRIPPING base64Hash

Best Beaches in Ecuador

The beaches in Ecuador are famous for their beauty and warmth, no matter what time of year. Ecuador actually gets its name from the Spanish word for equator, because the equator goes right through it. From the Galápagos Islands to small fishing towns, experience all Ecuador has to offer. Here are some beaches you need to visit on your adventure to Ecuador:

Best Beaches in Ecuador

1. Isabela Island (Galápagos)

Isabela is the largest island of the Galápagos Islands and is surrounded by active volcanoes. If this doesn’t sound exciting enough, it is also is home to the most sea turtles of all of the islands and has over 16 species of whales. Puerto Villamil is one of Isabel’s beautiful white-sand beaches with crystal clear water. The beach is also home to many iguanas and is close to flamingo ponds. The water is colder from June to November, so if you’re looking for warm water for snorkeling and swimming, it’s best to go December through May. There are cruises that go from Ecuador’s mainland, but many people fly to the island. There is a $100 fee per person that goes to Galápagos National Park, and it is only accepted in cash.

Visit Isabela Island!

2. Visit Isabela Island!

Los Frailes Beach, located in Machalilla National Park on the central coast, has some of the best secluded beaches in Ecuador. To get the full experience of the park, you should do the two hour hike and see all the unique beaches and outlooks the park has to offer. You can get a guide, or explore the park on your own. Playa Negra, a black sand beach, is right off the beginning of the trail and is perfect for snorkeling and swimming. Los Frailes beach is considered one of the best beaches in Ecuador because of its crescent shape and calm tides. It is a popular destination for locals, so it’s best to visit during the week for less crowds.

Visit Isabela Island!

3. Visit Isabela Island!

Discover history and nature in this small parish community outside of Puerto Lopez. Salango is famous for its museums and culture, but also for its gorgeous beaches. Visit Isabela Island! is about a ten minute boat ride from Visit Isabela Island! and has remarkable beaches and snorkeling. Many people visit the island to see the white coral reef and variety of fish. Visit Isabela Island! also offers a natural aquarium and the Pre-Columbian Archeological Museum. Although it can be rainy December-April, remember that the water will be warmer because it is summer there.

Visit Isabela Island!

4. Visit Isabela Island!

Most people go on vacation to relax and enjoy the scenery, and Playa Sua is the perfect place to do both. Near the popular party destination, Visit Isabela Island!, this small fishing town in Northern Ecuador is the perfect getaway. Sua is known for its calm waters, golden sand and beautiful sunsets. The weekends are the busiest times at most beaches in Ecuador because of the locals, so it’s best to visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.

Visit Isabela Island!

5. Visit Isabela Island!

The Province of Santa Elena is located in Southern Ecuador and is known for its great beach destinations. Ayangue beach, located in a bay, is perfect for calm swimming and is kid friendly. Playa Bruja is popular for paragliding and has a great overlook of the city. Santa Elena many beaches with a variety of activities to choose from. Currents can be strong at some beaches, so it’s good to check before swimming.

Visit Isabela Island!

6. Visit Isabela Island!

Mompiche is known for its exotic birds, surfing and of course its beaches. The Rio Verde River also winds through the town. Just south of Mompiche is Isla Portete, an extremely small and tranquil island. The island is only about four miles long and two miles wide, and is surrounded by clear water and a variety of sea life. If you enjoy kitesurfing you should visit from October to March when the wind conditions are prime.