Manta
Country: Ecuador · Region: South America
Manta is Ecuador's second largest seaport and a major coastal city in the Coastal Lowlands, serving as both a commercial hub and vacation resort destination. The port offers beaches, water sports, casinos, and fresh seafood dining.
Top sights
Banco Central Museum, El Murciélago Beach, Malecón, San Lorenzo Beach, San Mateo fishing village, Tarqui Beach
Things to do
- Banco Central Museum
- Displays ceramics from the pre-Columbian Huancavilca-Manteño era culture, located at Avenida 8 and Calle 7 behind the bus terminal.
- Fantasy Casino
- Very nice casino at Malecón y Calle 23 operated by the Oro Verde Hotel featuring traditional and video slot machines, table games, drinks, and live entertainment on weekends.
- Malecón
- A pleasant waterfront promenade arcing around the bay with constant ocean winds, active with night life, bars, clubs, and casinos.
- International Theater Festival
- Annual festival held every September in Manta.
Beaches
- El Murciélago
- The most popular beach in Manta with a wide variety of seafood restaurants, bars, water sports including surfing and diving, and nearby hotels and amenities.
- San Lorenzo
- Located 28 km from Manta, known for diverse rock formations, caves, marine birds, and hunchback whale watching from June to September, with surfing and lighthouse climbing.
Where to eat
- Paraná
- Seafood restaurant located at Calle 17 and Malecón close to the port.
- Martinica
- Italian and Ecuadorian typical cuisine restaurant located via San Mateo.
Bars and nightlife
- West End
- Described as the best place to party, a karaoke-bar with the newest songs available that turns into a dance club late at night.
Getting around
Inexpensive taxis are the best option for tourists, costing $1-3 to most destinations; negotiate the fare before getting in and carry exact change.
What to eat
Manta is renowned for fresh seafood including ceviche and viche de pescado, with numerous restaurants along the beach and Malecón serving local and international cuisine.
Tips
Drink bottled water only as the city water supply is contaminated; use taxis even for short distances at night for safety.
Best for
Beaches, water sports, seafood, nightlife