Things to do & places to visit in Manabi Province, Ecuador

Manabi Province #6 destination in Ecuador 2023. The average rating score is 4.53 based on 5.351 traveler reviews, of 127 attractions. Timezone: America/Guayaquil, current date and time: Thursday, May 09, 2024, 18:56.

Top things to do (42)

Top destinations in Manabi Province 36

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Aventuras La Plata (284 reviews)
- Trip to Isla de la Plata from Puerto Lopez, Ecuador.
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Boat Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching

This company is professional, knowledgeable, safety conscious, very reasonably priced, easy to find, and the guides speak Spanish or English as long as you let them know when you buy your tickets. Served snacks and lunch. Gave us a wonderful trip and stopped on the way to get a close view of whales. There are no land tortoises or large iguanas on the island (that we saw). But the cliffs are spectacular and the blue-footed boobies are very photogenic! In addition to the animals on land, we saw some bryde's whales, had 5 sea turtles come right up to the boat, and those who chose to snorkel saw rays up close. Will definitely recommend this company and trip to our friends. See more..
5.0 Kite Ecuador (276 reviews)
- Best place for Kiting in Ecuador
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Surfing & Windsurfing • Gear Rentals • Stand Up Paddleboarding

Javier and his team do an excellent job. The school is super well set up with excellent equipment which is all pretty new. The courses are excellent value and teach you all of the skills needed to learn to kite. Pedro has a great attitude, full of energy and is super encouraging as an instructor. The whole team were super friendly and helpful. Nicky, Lotty and Edickson always there with a smile and encouragement. Javier goes out of his way to make sure you have the best experience and is an excellent teacher. He definitely goes above and beyond for his clients. Santa Marianita is a very low key place and a lovely destination to spend some time Kiting or learning to kite Highly recommend to anyone learning or Kiting in Ecuador. See more..
5.0 Ocean Freaks (245 reviews)
- Incredible diving lessons
Scuba & Snorkelling • Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Surfing & Windsurfing • Fishing Charters & Tours • Kayaking & Canoeing

The last couple of days with Santi at Ocean freaks dive center has been incredible! We were only 3 people in the course which made us all feel very safe, seen and heard. Santi himself is a very kind and funny guy, but also knows when to be profesional and helpful. I would recommend Ocean freaks dive center to everybody who is thinking about taking diving lessons in Ecuador See more..
5.0 Manta SOS Guide - Day Tours (197 reviews)
- Whale watching
Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM City Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours

The trip to Porto Lopez to take a boat out to watch whales was wonderful. Connection's were on time and the driver of the ban was very accommodating, stopping afterwards so we could have lunch. We saw a mother whale and her calf. Highly recommend.q See more..
5.0 Mares Ecuador (122 reviews)
- Amazing Family operated Dive Shop and School
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Scuba & Snorkelling

I completed my Advanced Open Water Certification at Mares and I cannot recommend them enough. They looked after me incredibly well over the four days I was with them and I had a blast. They conduct themselves with the perfect blend of professionalism and fun, ensuring your personal safety above all else. They made sure to help me celebrate my birthday when I was travelling alone and feeling homesick. They surprised me with a cake which just showed how willing they are to go above and beyond for their divers! See more..
5.0 Isla Corazon Mangrove Reserve (67 reviews)
- Fascinating Nature Center
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas

This is a very interesting Nature Center that is working to restore and preserve the Mangrove Swamps, which have been largely destroyed by shrimp farming. It is truly worth your visit. (15.00pp) If you arrive an hour or so before High tide you will be able to travel through the tunnel in the Mangrove Swamp. Very interesting. If Alfredo is your guide, you will learn a lot about the Mangroves, even though he only speaks a little bit of English. And his enthusiasm makes up for what you do not understand. There is a very interesting video at the center with English subtitles that will help you to learn the history. This is a breeding ground for pelicans, frigate birds and other species. You will see many of these birds. I understand if you go at low tide, you will see more birds, but we saw a lot at high tide. See more..
5.0 Manta with Juan (53 reviews)
- Don’t miss an opportunity to travel with Juan
City Tours • Cultural Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Day Trips

My wife and I were in Ecuador and were fortunate to hook up with Juan. We went on 3 tours with him and his knowledge of Manta and surrounding areas was amazing. He is a true professional with a great sense of humour and an awareness of what his clients are looking for. We were able to adjust one tour and pick up what we missed on the next tour with great input from Juan. He just made it easy. If you get the chance to spend any time with Juan I believe your Ecuadorian experience will be much more enlightened! Doug & Debbi See more..
5.0 Cabalgatas Canoa (39 reviews)
- Best experience in Ecuador so far!
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Sightseeing Tours • Horseback Riding Tours

Beautiful horses, beautiful beach and beautiful sun set, who could ask for more? Great experience, would definitely recommend. See more..
5.0 Finca Pinguino Farm (38 reviews)
- Peaceful place and good vibes!
Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Yoga & Pilates

The Finca Pinguino, an intimate eco-home set in the middle of Ecuadorian nature. An exceptional location : On the top of a hill, overlooking luxuriant nature Horses & farm animals, A reforestation project, A peaceful atmosphere reflecting the owners’ love for yoga. Discover tasteful veggie food from the farm or nearby communities. An almost exclusive place, with a maximum of 6 guests. Two passionate and receptive hosts, who also know how to respect your need for privacy ;) A wide choice of activities, including : Yoga - Our speciality, Horse ride, Surf session, Brewery visit, Healthy & veggie cooking workshop Gardening / Participation to the “Nourishing Forest” reforestation project, Chill, Slackline introduction Board games nights, by the fire and stars above. Chat or revitalize yourself. Most of our guests choose to stay at least 2 days and 2 nights to fully enjoy the Finca Pinguino and the dozens of things there are to discover there :) See more..
5.0 Surpacifico Spanish School (31 reviews)
- Surpacifico Spanish School
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Yoga & Pilates • Lessons & Workshops

Surpacifico Spanish School gives students an intercultural experience by providing a variety of programs with something for everyone. Learn Spanish in a calm and personal environment, develop new competences and make your journey extraordinary. See more..
5.0 Clara Luna (29 reviews)
- What a great experience!
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 2:00 PM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

A non-profit organization sharing its pasion for children, youth, and Puerto López. Volunteer Opportunities We offer a wide range of programming, both within our house and through our many community connections. From after-school programs, English classes and environmental initiatives to volunteer work with people living with disabilities, we are sure that there is a program fit for you. Spanish Classes Whether your schedule allows you time to volunteer with us or not, we offer Spanish language classes with native Spanish speakers and a FREE Language Exchange night on Wednesdays to practice what you have learned! Donate Clara Luna programs are made possible only through the generous support of those willing to share their time, talent and treasure. If you are able to assist from afar with a specific skill or if you are interested in making monetary or supply donation, we are grateful for your support! See more..
5.0 Travesia Surf & Bikes (25 reviews)
- The place to go when you’re in Puerto Lopez!
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Gear Rentals

Bike Tours (MTB) AsProfessional Assistance Accident Insurance Bilingual guides Rentals / Lessons / Tours Surf, Sup, Kayak Machalilla National Park: Los Frailes / Agua Blanca / El Pital / Islote Sucre Adventure - Snorkeling - Wildlife sighting Life is now! See more..
5.0 Lily's Moonshine Massage (21 reviews)
- Excellent
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Spas

Moonshine Massage is treatment for the mind, body and soul! Head masseuse Lily is a local Ecuadorian who has been practicing the healing and meditative techniques of muscular manipulation for over five years. Located right on the beautiful Canoa beach, Moonshine Massage regularly assists in the recovery and development of surfers, retirees, business owners, athletes and everyone in between! See more..
5.0 Mauli Wellness Spa (17 reviews)
- Andreita & the Mauli Spa is the real deal
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spas

A space dedicated to nurturing your body, mind and emotions Experience a variety of therapies to melt away your stress and soothe your soul See more..
5.0 La Trova Bar Gourmet (16 reviews)
- De lo mejor
Thursday: 7:30 PM - 11:59 PM Bars & Clubs

La trova!!! excelente lugar para compartir con amigos, buen ambiente, buena música, piqueos y cerveza artesanal. De lo mejor que hay en Portoviejo! See more..
5.0 El Artesan (11 reviews)
- Great tour by owner Dante!
Speciality & Gift Shops

About 10 of us (adults & kids) were able to take a tour of El Artesanal, a workshop where they make different products out of the local "palo santo" tree (Bursera Graveolens). It was a sacred tree for the indigenous people who used it for medicinal purposes. El Artesan uses only branches or trees that have already died; they do not harvest trees. However, they are growing lots of palo santo seedlings and replenishing the forests. They make a variety of products from palo santo including incense, oils, candles, etc. We were there for about an hour learning how they processed the wood, drew out the oil, dried the incense, used a local berry as a kind of "glue", etc. Dante also showed us a great dining table and door that he had made out of palo santo -- works of art! Spanish & Italian are spoken. See more..
4.5 Playa de los Frailes (589 reviews)
- Don't miss Blanche's!
Beaches

Great wee spot. I had the camarones in salsa verde, very tasty. The patacones were mi rico! Large portions, great price. My partner had the fish of the day, Dorado, pan fried. It was excellent. Swerve the wine, not so great! Decent prices. See more..
4.5 Isla de la Plata (341 reviews)
- Really nice!
Islands

Located only 17 miles off the coast of Ecuador, this island is encircled by many reefs that make it a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers. See more..
4.5 Native Diving (255 reviews)
- Excellent dive center
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Scuba & Snorkelling

I dove with them and this center is excellent: good service, very good gear and friendly and capable staff. I loved the fun dive. But apart from that I saw how the training for open warer is given, and I must say I was pleasantly suprised. They do a very good job. I'm rescue myself so I have a decent idea of what to check and I have to say they do an excellent job. I highly recommend them both for fun dives as for training. As a matt3r of fact I did send a lady friend to them. See more..
4.5 Playa Santa Marianita (243 reviews)
- Always an adventure
Beaches

This is our favorite beach near Manta. Not the most beautiful, but always lots of activity. The sand and water is clean and great for swimming. The bars are fun, especially EcuaBlue, you can sit and watch the kite boarders or get a lesson from the multiple vendors. During July and August you can watch the humpbacks breaching in the open water. See more..
4.5 Palo Santo Travel Ecuador (242 reviews)
- Great trip combing so many things
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Fishing Charters & Tours • Dolphin & Whale Watching • Nature & Wildlife Tours

A fantastic boat trip. We did their Puerto Lopez - Isla de la Plata, and it was fantastic - great whale watching, amazing birds and brilliant snorkelling all in one trip. The guide (Silvano) was ace on his birds and as a snorkelling guide, although a little disinterested in mammals it seemed (he spent the journey out on his phone). Silvano also organised us an extra trip to Rio Blanco the next day (for ~$55 for 2 people) - I would strongly caution against doing this. The guide (his dad) didn't seem to know the birds, and it seemed didn't really want to be there. But if you are looking for an excellent trip to Isla de la Plata then Palo Santo have you sorted! See more..
4.5 Isla de la Plata (172 reviews)
- An amazing experience
Spent More than 3 hours Reefs • Islands • Nature & Wildlife Areas

It is a fabulous place to visit, our guide Paola was very knowledgeable. Saw lots of Blue Footed Boobies and Frigates. Gorgeous views from the top circuit. Bring lots of sunscreen and cover up, the Jan sun is brutal. We were grateful for the ocean breezes. On the boat ride back to Puerto Lopez we were blessed by a visit from a very large playful pod of Spotted Dolphins. See more..
4.5 Otra Ola (129 reviews)
- The Otra Ola Ayampe Beach Experience
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM Surfing & Windsurfing

Ellen and I stayed in Ayampe for 5 wonderful weeks, Jan.20 to Mar.7, 2022. Otra Ola is located on the beach in the centre of Ayampe and was the focal point for our activities. Genesis and Margarita were excellent Spanish teachers. Mateo and Camilo are amazing surfers and helped me a lot with my skills (the big waves can be tough as you move from beginner to intermediate). The various yoga instructors we had were engaging and talented. Ryan had great advice for us in finding what we needed in Ayampe, the region, and beyond. They are flexible. Nice cafe. I recommend this place. Don R. See more..
4.5 Narwell (115 reviews)
- Tour of Cocoa Farm and Cocoa Processing Plant
City Tours • Cultural Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Day Trips

Gabriel arranged for us a full day tour of a Cocoa plantation and factory that processes Cocoa. He organized the tours seamless and professionally. He is an excellent organizer and tour guide whom we highly recommend to anyone coming to Manta. Gabriel is very patient and lets you see all you desire to see on the trip without a feeling of compunction. My wife and I were, and still are, pleased with the service he rendered us while we were in Manta. See more..
4.5 Rio Muchacho Organic Farm (88 reviews)
- A full and excellent day out.
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Farms

Rio Muchacho Organic Farm and Eco-lodge is located 10km north of the popular beach town of Canoa. We offer a unique and ecologically friendly haven for guests to stay, relax, and explore. Our bungalow-style accommodation was constructed entirely from local materials, and we try to prepare all our meals using fresh fruit and vegetables harvested from our own grounds. Unwind in our yoga & meditation garden, spend time investigating the farm's abundance of plants and animal life, watch your kids climb or swing in our playground, or choose from an array of guided tours. Experience coastal Ecuador in a tranquil setting, far removed from the typical tourism tracks and ideal for families or authentic nature seekers. Harvest fresh organic ingredients and prepare a traditional tonga lunch. Horseback ride to a monkey forest, then make your own chocolate. We also offer volunteering opportunities and intensive course programs about permaculture and sustainable living. See more..
4.5 Museo Ciudad Alfaro (85 reviews)
- Great City Lookout of Montecristi
Points of Interest & Landmarks

This site is located just outside the town of Montechristi up the hill. There are a couple of a museums here in addition to restaurants, souvenir shops, Panama Hat demonstrations and old train display. BOTTOM LINE: We took a tour to here while visiting Manta on a Princess Cruise stop for the day. We had a quick stop below in the town to visit some flea market souvenir stalls and the large Catholic church in the center of town. Afterwards we drove up here to see a view of the city and see a Panama Hat demo of how these hat are made. Fun stop and shopping. The cost for our tour from the cruise port was $54 each for 3 hours of touring. MY RATING: 7/10 See more..
4.5 Parque Nacional Machalilla (64 reviews)
- Go early to beat the crowds
Spent More than 3 hours National Parks

Okay Sunday may not have been the best day to visit a local beach, but I was there shortly after 8am when Parque Machalilla opened so it was fine. Los Frailles beach is spectacular and such a great view from the mirador. Tortuga Beach is smaller and wilder. The third beach with the red crabs gives a good view of Machalilla. See more..
4.5 Playa San Lorenzo (62 reviews)
- " Just Chillin"
Beaches

Beautiful, the volcanic rock formation is a must, take a stroll and mesmerize as if your are in a movie. See more..
4.5 Museo Bahía de Caraquez (53 reviews)
- Have I been here? Yes! A painting of mine is included in their collection!
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Reading the reviews warms my heart, as I visit the museum often (I live an hour's drive up the coast) The director, Sixtina, is tireless and there seems to be a function each week. As many stated, the artifacts are stunning, the tours informative, the view from the top a finale. They even have art classes for students (elementary and high school) in the lower/basement level. I often work on studies at the museum for an upcoming show there in 2016. The students peer over my shoulder, then I go downstairs and peer over theirs! It's a wonderful museum, wonderful staff, and it's well worth a stop - and it's free! See more..
4.5 Morning Fish Market (41 reviews)
- Puerto Lopez Fishmarket: Better than television!
Flea & Street Markets

The fishmarket on the beach is a must see when you are visiting the coastal fishing village of Puerto Lopez. Go early in the morning, get yourself a cup of instant coffee and a Bolon de Verde, sit down and just watch! You'll see how the small, colorfull boats will enter the shore, how the fish will be brought on the beach by hand. While the men are running with the fish to sell it, the big birds are trying to get their free catch! Watch how the biggest fish are being weighed, how they hassle about the price and how big pieces of ice will be brought by trucks to keep the fish fresh. You can also buy your own fresh fish and let it be cleaned by one of the ladys on the beach. They do it quickly and good for only a few cents! If you go on a tour, there is plenty of time to go to the fishmarket before. See more..