Whilst this is in no way a polished coastal spot, the once rustic fishing town of Puerto Lopez still offers a welcome retreat for a backpacker escaping the city. Click here for more info on Ecuador Travel! Isla de la Plata is located a 40 km boat trip away from Puerto Lopez and it is easy to arrange a tour there from the main town. Most trips include a hike of varying lengths across the island and the opportunity to snorkel where you can see manta rays, coral and giant sea turtles.
Los Frailles is a fantastic day trip from Puerto Lopez and very easy to do on a budget. This beach is completely free to enter and can be reached by public transport. You can arrange a taxi to take you directly to the beach or alternatively follow the hiking path from the road will take around two hours. En route you will pass two other beaches, one of which is a black sand volcanic beach as well as two stunning viewpoints.
Remember to bring water and suncream as the beach is very exposed and provides little shade. Every year, Puerto Lopez draws in masses of visitors who flock to the coast to whale watch. From June to September, Humpback Whales mate and give birth in the waters along the Ecuadorian coast so sightings of them are pretty much guaranteed. There are ten tour agencies based in Puerto Lopez who offer day trips to see the whales and these can often be combined with a trip to Isla de la Plata.
It is definitely worth bringing some seasickness medication if you have a tendency to get nauseous on a boat, the sea can be a little rough! There is an interesting museum located there as well as some archaeological ruins. Upon arriving at the museum, a staff member will guide you around the complex but be warned, tours will only be given in Spanish. At the end of the route, there is a sulphur pool for relaxing where it is possible to get a mud mask and massage.
It is a great spot for bird watching and offers some of the wildlife that can be seen on Isla de la Plata. Although there are more beautiful beaches in South America, the main coastal strip in Puerto Lopez is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon.
