Discover the Serenity of Los Frailes Beach
Experience the tranquil beauty of Los Frailes Beach, a hidden paradise in Ecuador's Machalilla National Park, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Los Frailes Beach is a hidden gem along the Ecuadorian coast, offering pristine sands, clear waters, and stunning natural beauty. Perfect for relaxation and exploration, this beach is a must-visit for travelers seeking tranquility and picturesque landscapes.
A brief summary to Los Frailes Beach
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Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, as the beach can fill up quickly during peak hours.
- Bring your own snacks and drinks, as there are limited facilities available.
- Don't forget your snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater life.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat; the sun can be intense, especially during midday.
- Respect the natural environment by not littering and following local guidelines.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the town of Santa Elena. Head south on the E28 highway towards La Libertad. Continue on E28 for approximately 23 kilometers (about 30 minutes). Look for the signs directing you towards the Parque Nacional Machalilla. Take the exit for the park, and follow the road for about 10 kilometers until you reach the entrance of Los Frailes Beach. Note that there is an entrance fee to the national park, which is typically around $2 per person.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, begin by taking a bus from the Santa Elena bus terminal to Puerto López. Buses to Puerto López run frequently and the journey takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive in Puerto López, you can catch a local taxi or a shared taxi (called a 'taxi colectivo') to Los Frailes Beach, which is around 15 kilometers away. The taxi ride will cost approximately $10-15, and you can share the ride with others to reduce costs. Make sure to negotiate the price beforehand.
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Private Transfer
If you prefer a more comfortable option, consider booking a private transfer service from your accommodation in Santa Elena to Los Frailes Beach. This can be arranged through local tour companies or your hotel. The cost can vary but expect to pay between $30 to $50, depending on the vehicle size and service included. This option provides a direct and hassle-free way to enjoy your trip.
Discover more about Los Frailes Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nativa Whale Domes Glamping & Camping
6.8 km
Discover the magic of glamping at Nativa Whale Domes, where comfort meets nature in the heart of Puerto López, Ecuador.
El Refugio Ayampe Beach Deck
20.8 km
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Tanusas Hotel
22.4 km
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Hotel Baja Montañita
36.5 km
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Tres Palmas Boutique Hotel
36.6 km
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La Escuelita Spanish School Montañita
36.6 km
Experience the beauty of Ecuadorian culture while mastering Spanish at La Escuelita Spanish School in Montañita, a top destination for language learners.
Jajá en Balsa
36.7 km
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Balsa Surf Camp Guest House
36.7 km
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Punta Hills Montañita
36.8 km
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Monumento del Surfista
36.8 km
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El Cielo Montanita
37.0 km
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Hostal Casa Taisha
37.1 km
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Hidden House Hostel
37.2 km
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Iguana Beach House
37.2 km
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Esperanto B&B Backpacker Surf Hostel
37.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mirador Las Frigates
0.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Mirador Las Frigates, a premier vista point in Machalilla, Ecuador.
Playa Tortuguita
0.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Playa Tortuguita, a hidden gem on Ecuador's coast, where nature and tranquility await every traveler.
Playa Coral
1.4 km
Explore the serene Playa Coral in Machalilla National Park, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Los Bálsamos
1.6 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Playa Los Balsamos, a hidden coastal gem in Ecuador perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Playa los Ciriales
2.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Playa los Ciriales, a hidden gem in Machalilla, Ecuador, perfect for relaxation and adventure seekers alike.
Parque Nacional Machalilla
2.1 km
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Agua Blanca
3.5 km
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Malecón de puerto lopez
5.4 km
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PLAYA EL DESCANSO DE LAS TORTUGAS
5.5 km
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Playa rosada
6.1 km
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Humpback Whale Skeleton
6.8 km
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Puerto Lopez Beach
6.8 km
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Museo Agua Blanca
7.2 km
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Ensenada de Salango
7.4 km
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Comuna Agua Blanca
7.6 km
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Essential places to dine
RESTAURANTE OCEANIC | FOOD | BEACH | TURISMO | PUERTO LÓPEZ | ECUADOR | RESTAURANT
6.5 km
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Restaurant Spondylus
7.7 km
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Pane & Vino
7.8 km
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Patacon Pisao
7.8 km
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Restaurante Sabor Español
8.4 km
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Restaurante Islote El Sombrerito
10.8 km
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Mulata Ec
20.6 km
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Los Orishas - Restaurante hostal
20.7 km
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Los Corales
20.7 km
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Ayampe Tacos
20.7 km
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El Pacay en Ayampe
20.8 km
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Siwiche restarante
20.8 km
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ArteSano Ayampe
20.8 km
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Malevo
20.9 km
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Selvamar
21.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Souvenirs and crafts
0.2 km
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Tienda Palosanto
7.7 km
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El Artesan S.A
7.9 km
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Comercial Javico
7.9 km
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Vivero Cochapunko
19.5 km
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The Mango House
20.4 km
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Villas Los Olivos
20.5 km
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Tienda Ayampe
20.6 km
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Sea You Free
20.7 km
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Ganso&Búho
20.7 km
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I Love Ayampe (Tattoo Shop)
20.8 km
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Ayampe
20.8 km
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Mineral Surf Shop
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La Buena Vida Hotel
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Yemaya Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cabaña Cultural Aquí me quedo
3.5 km
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Ancora Cabaña Beach
7.7 km
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CHEERS BAR & GRILL
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CABAÑA MAR AZUL / RESTOBAR / FRENTE AL MAR / COCTELES / DRINK / RESTAURANT / PUERTO LOPEZ /
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Taverne 13 events
8.1 km
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El spot 1980 ayampe
20.6 km
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La Vineria Ayampe
20.7 km
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RestoBar Happy Beach
20.8 km
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The Barn
20.9 km
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Sunset Bar
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Mali Thai & Asian Fusion
20.9 km
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TUCAN BAR, Olon
34.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Olon at Tucan Bar, where refreshing cocktails and stunning ocean views create unforgettable memories.
Montañita Brewing Company
36.6 km
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Kaza Roots
36.8 km
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Merman Beach Club
36.9 km
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