Things To Do
in Manta
Manta sits on Ecuador's central Pacific coast as a bustling port city known for its long sandy beaches and lively seafood scene. The city blends a working harbor with a growing tourist infrastructure, including a lively malecón and a range of cevicherías and cafés. Visitors come for sun, surf, and fresh-caught seafood, while nearby villages offer traditional crafts and coastal scenery.
Around Manta, day trips can reveal Montecristi's famed Panama hats and Machalilla National Park's coastal trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the vibrant historic center of Manta. Explore the charming streets as you admire the colonial architecture and visit the Cathedral of Manta, which showcases stunning stained glass. Stop by a local café for a traditional Ecuadorian breakfast, featuring fresh fruit and arepas.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Plaza de la Cultura, where you can immerse yourself in the local art scene. Visit the nearby Museo del Banco Central, which houses collections of pre-Columbian artifacts and contemporary art. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastal boardwalk, taking in the views of the Pacific Ocean.
As the sun sets, find a local restaurant to savor fresh seafood, a specialty in Manta. Try the ceviche, which is made from the catch of the day, and enjoy a refreshing drink made from local fruits. After dinner, take a walk along the beach, where the nighttime ambiance is perfect for relaxing.
Kick off your day at Playa Murciélago, one of Manta’s most popular beaches, known for its golden sands and clear waters. Rent a sun lounger and soak up the sun or take a dip in the inviting ocean. For the adventurous, there are options for surfing or paddleboarding available right at the beach.
After a morning of relaxation, join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant marine life surrounding the nearby Isla de la Plata. Marvel at the colorful fish and coral reefs while learning about the ecosystem from your knowledgeable guide. Return to the beach for a light lunch and enjoy fresh coconut water to recharge.
As the day winds down, head to a beachfront restaurant for a casual dinner with your toes in the sand. Enjoy grilled shrimp or fish tacos while listening to the sound of the waves. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the shore, enjoying the cool breeze and the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5 L) | $0.50-1 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-7 |
| 🍝Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong seafood culture and warm Pacific climate
- Accessible coastal nature and nearby Machalilla Park
- Limited high-end nightlife compared to larger cities
- Varying road conditions outside the main urban areas
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Manta
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping waterfront promenade ideal for sunrise or sunset photography, with fishing boats, palm trees, and city silhouettes across the bay.
Long sandy beach with coastlines and surfers; capture action at the water’s edge and broad, colorful skies at dusk.
Coastal islets and birdlife offer dramatic sea backdrops and wildlife photography opportunities when accessible by boat excursions.
Industrial and working harbor scenes provide gritty, authentic maritime imagery with boats, cranes, and port activity at different light levels.
Food in Manta
Manta Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught seafood cured in lime juice with onion, cilantro, and spices; commonly served with corn and plantain chips.
Must-Try!
A robust fish soup with yuca and onions, traditionally enjoyed for breakfast or as a comforting meal after a day at the water.
Fish blended with cassava, fried plantain, and fresh herbs, often wrapped in a leaf or served with a side of lime.
Fish cooked in a creamy coconut sauce with coconut milk, vegetables, and spices.
Mushy green plantain mixed with cheese or pork, fried to golden perfection—great as a snack or sides.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls offering fresh seafood, produce, and street-food bites; ideal for tasting the day’s catch and watching market life.
Row of street-food stalls along the waterfront serving fried fish, patacones, empanadas, and ceviche on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm “Buenos días/tardes” and a handshake; in casual settings, a friendly nod or kiss on the cheek may occur among close friends. Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites.
Show respect for elders and family roles; discussions are generally polite and avoid overly loud or confrontational tones in public.
Safety
Tipping in Manta
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not already included. Small cafés and street vendors rarely expect tips, but rounding up fares is appreciated for taxi drivers and guide services.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments; many smaller shops and markets prefer cash (USD is commonly accepted). ATMs are available in the city center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically drier and sunnier with refreshing sea breezes; great for beach days, surfing, and outdoor markets. Expect warm water and clear skies, but humidity can rise in the late afternoon.
Continued warm conditions with moderate rain possible; pleasant for outdoor exploring and fewer crowds on weekdays.
Wetter and more humid months with sporadic showers; seas can be rougher, making some water activities less predictable but still possible with a guide.
Transition period with improving conditions; many days are sunny with comfortable humidity and good visibility for photography and hiking.
Manta at Night
Hiking in Manta
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal forest and viewpoint trails leading to Los Frailes Beach; beautiful scenery and wildlife within a short drive from Manta.
Airports
How to reach Manta by plane.
Located in Manta with domestic connections to Quito and Guayaquil; taxis and car rentals available for city transport.
Major international hub in Ecuador; useful for international connections and domestic flights to the coast.
Regional hub near the coast; frequent domestic flights to Quito and the Galápagos gateway options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Mestizo with Afro-Ecuadorian and minority communities in the coastal region.
A small but growing presence of travelers and short-term residents attracted by the coast and tourism services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple coastal activity with consistent waves along Tarqui Beach.
Popular pastime and weekend matches in local fields and parks.
Common on public beaches and waterfronts, especially in the dry season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Manta.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate by choosing plant-based dishes like bolón de verde, salads with avocado, coconut-based curries, fresh fruit bowls, and beans; ask for oil-based dressings and avoid meat-based broths.