Playa Manglaralto
| 🏖️ Playa Manglaralto | |
|---|---|
| Location | Manglaralto, Santa Elena Province |
| Type | Open Pacific beach |
| Character | Surfable, local community beach |
| Nearby | Manglaralto Estuary, Las Tunas Beach |
| Distance from La Libertad | ~35 km north |
ECUAWIKI › PLACES TO VISIT › PLAYA MANGLARALTO
Playa Manglaralto is the main beach at the town of Manglaralto, located on the Ruta del Spondylus approximately halfway between La Libertad and Montañita. The beach is part of the broader Manglaralto area, which also includes the scenic Manglaralto Estuary.
The Beach
Playa Manglaralto is a wide, open Pacific beach with:
- Direct exposure to the Pacific swell — some surf potential
- Local fishing activity; pangas launched from the beach
- A laid-back, less touristy atmosphere than Montañita
- Wide sandy shoreline suitable for walking and swimming in calmer conditions
Manglaralto Town
Manglaralto is a small town with local services, a municipal market, and community facilities. It serves as a local hub for the surrounding communities (Las Tunas, Cadeate, Dos Mangas). There are some small restaurants and simple accommodation.
The Manglaralto Estuary is nearby and accessible by short walk or boat.
Getting There
Manglaralto is on the main coastal highway (Ruta del Spondylus), served by buses from the Sumpa Bus Terminal (Santa Elena). The journey takes approximately 45–60 minutes. From Montañita, it's about 20–25 minutes south.