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Beach · Puerto López, Manabí
Playa Los Frailes
Crescent-shaped beach inside Parque Nacional Machalilla, with no buildings, featuring a trail through dry forest to other beaches and a viewpoint.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Playa Los Frailes
Los Frailes is a protected beach inside Parque Nacional Machalilla, about 12 km north of Puerto López, near the village of Machalilla. Being inside the park, it has no buildings or commerce: it is a wide cove of light sand, surrounded by cliffs and dry forest, with the open sea in front.
From the entrance a trail leads through the dry forest, with palo santo trees and cacti, to Playita Negra, with dark sand, and the beach of La Tortuguita, with rocks and waves. Along the way is Mirador Las Fragatas, on a hill about 110 meters high, offering views of the beaches and the frigatebirds that fly along the coast.
From June to October, from the top of the viewpoint you can sometimes see humpback whales in the sea.
The park entrance has opening hours and access control. There is no sale of food or water at the beach.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day, including the hike and a swim.
Best time
In the morning, with less sun on the trail. The sea is usually warmer from December to May. Check the park entrance times beforehand.
How to get there
It's about 12 km north of Puerto López. Take a coastal bus to the entrance and walk or take a moto-taxi to the beach, or go by taxi directly.
Tip
Bring water, snacks and sunscreen. Do the hike first and finish the day with a swim at Los Frailes.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Playa Los Frailes
Does Los Frailes have facilities?
No. The beach is inside the national park, with no commercial facilities. Bring water and snacks.
What is the Los Frailes trail like?
It goes through the dry forest to Playita Negra, La Tortuguita and Mirador Las Fragatas, on a hill of about 110 meters.
Is the beach far from Puerto López?
About 12 km to the north, a few minutes by bus or taxi.