What to do in Ayampe and Las Tunas

A community inside Machalilla National Park with an archaeological museum and a sulfur-water lagoon. A classic half-day excursion.

From June to September (peak in July and August), humpback whales arrive off our coast to mate and calve. They're spotted near Roca Piramidal off Ayampe; tours mainly depart from Puerto López (17 km away).

A ~20-meter waterfall surrounded by dry tropical forest, reached by a trail from the village. Home to numerous plant and bird species.

An ecotourism trail along the Río Ayampe, recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA). The big draw is the Esmeraldas Woodstar, the world's second-smallest hummingbird and the emblematic bird of Las Tunas.

Known as "the poor man's Galápagos": blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, albatrosses and sea lions, 40 km from Puerto López. Full-day tours depart from Puerto López.

5 km from Ayampe. Artifacts from the pre-Columbian cultures that inhabited this coast, next to Isla Salango, great for both snorkeling and scuba diving.

Inside Machalilla National Park, one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in Ecuador. Perfect to combine with a whale-watching or Isla de la Plata tour from Puerto López.

Just off Ayampe. A good snorkeling spot, also used for diving, with tours connecting to Salango and Isla de la Plata.

Fresh local cooking with ocean views, one of Ayampe's favorites.

Mexican-inspired tacos with a local twist, right in the heart of Ayampe.

Right on the Ruta del Spondylus in Ayampe. The place to try corviche, the classic fish-stuffed green plantain ball typical of Manabí.

Home-style cooking and local flavors in the Ayampe / Las Tunas area.

Ayampe's favorite pizza, in a warm setting by the sea.

Thai and Asian fusion cuisine right on the beach, in a laid-back setting.

Chef-driven cuisine with fresh ingredients, perfect for a special dinner in Ayampe.

Neighborhood bakery in Ayampe, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Sushi and oriental fusion by the sea, with live music and good vibes.

Ayampe's best ceviche, made with the day's fresh fish and seafood.

American-style coffee and baked goods in the Ayampe / Las Tunas area. A good stop for real coffee and something sweet.

Specialty coffee in the Ayampe / Las Tunas area.

Bar and gathering spot in Ayampe, known for its parties and beachside nights. Instagram: @warhol_ec.

Hardware store and practical services in Las Tunas, near PlayaMagma.

Massages and wellness therapies in a calm, tropical setting.

In Las Tunas. An internationally recognized surf school with daily yoga (9:00–10:30, except Sundays) and Spanish classes for foreigners. They also serve organic coffee, tea, muffins and juices, plus run an oceanfront hotel with restaurant, pool and jacuzzi.

In Las Tunas. A retreat center combining surf, yoga and nature for international groups.

Lodging in the Ayampe / Las Tunas area, another option if your group needs extra rooms.

Lodging in the Ayampe / Las Tunas area, another option if your group needs extra rooms.

Guesthouse in the Ayampe / Las Tunas area, another lodging option if your group needs extra rooms.