ISLAS FRAGATAS

The five tiny islets are home to an impressive colony of frigatebirds, as their name suggests. The best time to visit is between August and December, the time of mating and nuptial rites. The excursion lasts 3 hours and includes a hike to a headland from where you can see the estuary.

The surrounding beaches of Crucita, San Jacinto and San Clemente, which run for more than 10 kilometers to the south, are all pleasant stops, punctuated by small, very decent hotels. One feels a little out of time there.