Travel Guide Puerto López

While the multicolored boats sway happily at anchor, pelicans and frigate birds fly over the waves in search of food or melt on the leftovers of the fishermen who sell their catch every morning on the beach. Traditional wooden houses with galleries line the Malecón. A few dirt streets lead up to the main road. Here there is no stress, we live peacefully to the rhythm of the tides... and the many festivals of the city. At first sight, Puerto Lopez does not seem to be very attractive, and yet tourists find it hard to leave. This city, full of authenticity, compared to its neighbor Montañita, and much quieter than Manta, is really endearing. Its inhabitants are cordial, there is a soft atmosphere of holidays and one appreciates its change of scenery. The proximity of the Machalila National Park attracts tourists, who come here to observe humpback whales between June and September, but also to discover the beach of Los Frailes and the Isla de la Plata, a protected island off Puerto Lopez which is also part of the National Park.The only industry of the city, the fish factory is easily spotted by the black plume that emanates from its chimneys. Every morning, the fishermen come back from their night at sea, and unload their booty. A sight not to be missed. If you want to go to sea at night, it is possible: ask the head of the farm who supervises the arrival of his fishermen every day, or a fisherman on the beach.In 2013, the area of Puerto López (up to Ayampe) was declared "Área Turística Protegida" (Protected Tourist Area) by the government. This area covers 15,200 ha (770 ha of which is marine area) and includes the Parque Nacional Machalilla.On 24 September, the port honours the Virgin of Las Mercedes and on 8 December, the Virgin of La Inmaculada. The municipality is then dressed in its most beautiful finery.