Less developed and lacking the high-rise buildings of some other coastal towns, Puerto López offers a relaxed and inexpensive place to enjoy the beach, savor fresh seafood caught just offshore, and experience Ecuador’s coastal wildlife for the weekend.
There are many restaurants along Puerto López’s malecón (esplanade), but Carmita’s is one of the best. Try the delicious langostinos al ajillo (garlic prawns) for around $10.
Not far from Puerto López, Playa Los Frailes is a beautiful beach with a mirador (observation tower) at the end. The views from the top are spectacular, with waves crashing on the rock formations below.
Nearby is Agua Blanca, an indigenous community whose members act as guides for a roughly two-hour walk through the forest to the sulfur pool. It’s a relaxing spot to take a therapeutic dip—the mud is great for your skin. Don’t worry about getting messy; there are showers and changing rooms nearby.
Ayampe is just south of Puerto López. A popular surfing beach, it also attracts many people in the late afternoon who gather to watch the spectacular sunset.
