La Plata Island is part of the Machalillia National Park and is located 36 kilometers from the continent and is 1200 hectares in size. It has a dry climate where different species of plants have adapted. Its fauna is mainly fish and a multitude of birds such as the blue-footed booby, red-footed booby, masked/nazca booby, frigate bird, red-billed tropicbird and albatross which have chosen this island for mating.

The island was a ceremonial center in pre-Columbian times. After the Spanish conquest, pirates used to visit the island. In the late XVI century it was used as a base by Sir Francis Drake after assaulting the Galleon “Nuestra Señora de la Inmaculada Concepción” to divide his loot. For those who love underwater scenery and wildlife, Drake Bay is the perfect place for its coral reefs. The only way to get here is by arranged tours.