One of the world’s purest and most beautiful stretches of beach, los Frailes in Machalilla National Park, greets you with a series of fine sandy beaches, curious rock formations and islets, unspoiled shore and lovely seascapes. The self guided trail takes you through a Dry forest fragrant with Palo Santo trees, and up to a lookout point offering impressive views of land and ocean.

Just 10 minutes north of Puerto López, this is the Park’s most famed site.

How do I get there?

Los Frailes Beach Park is 10km north of Puerto Lopez, just south of the next town, Machalilla. A bus will take you to the front gate for US$0.50, while a mototaxi may charge you between US$3-US$5 depending on whether they drop you off at the gate or at the main beach.

If you don’t wish to walk back to the gate and catch a bus back, do arrange a pickup with a moto taxi.

What should I bring?

• Water
• Food
• Camera and dry bag for that camera
• Sunscreen, a hat, and sun glasses