7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Manta

Manta, is a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture, making it an attractive spot for digital nomads seeking a balance between work and leisure. While the city itself offers plenty to do, the surrounding areas are ripe with opportunities for weekend getaways. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's something for every type of traveler. Here are seven fun weekend destinations to explore while living in Manta.

Montecristi

Just a short drive from Manta, Montecristi is famous for its rich history and the iconic Panama hats, which are actually crafted here. Visitors can explore the town's charming streets, visit the Montecristi Golf Club, and learn about the art of hat-making at local workshops. The town also boasts the impressive Montecristi Cathedral and the nearby Pacoche Wildlife Refuge, where you can hike through lush forests and spot howler monkeys.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Montecristi is by car or bus, with the journey taking approximately 20 minutes from Manta.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to purchase a genuine Panama hat directly from the artisans who make them. It's a unique souvenir that supports local craftsmanship.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Montecristi Golf Resort & Villas for a luxurious experience, or the Hostal Palma Real for a more budget-friendly option.

Where to Eat: Try Restaurante El Montecristi for traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, and don't miss their ceviche, a local specialty.

Los Frailes Beach

Part of Machalilla National Park, Los Frailes Beach is often touted as one of the most beautiful beaches in Ecuador. With its clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand, it's a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and hiking. The beach is surrounded by dry tropical forest, offering a scenic backdrop and the chance to spot wildlife.

How to Get There: Los Frailes Beach is about an hour's drive from Manta. You can take a bus or drive there, with parking available near the beach.

Travel Tip: Hike up to the lookout point for a breathtaking panoramic view of the coastline. The trail starts at the beach and is well worth the effort.

Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations directly at Los Frailes, nearby Puerto Lopez offers options like the Hosteria Mandala with its artistic bungalows and beachfront location.

Where to Eat: In Puerto Lopez, enjoy fresh seafood at Bell Italia Ristorante, known for its Italian-Ecuadorian fusion dishes.

Agua Blanca

Agua Blanca is a small village within Machalilla National Park that offers a unique cultural experience. Visitors can explore the archaeological museum, take a dip in the sulfuric lagoon with its reputed healing properties, and hike through the surrounding dry forest. The community is also home to the remnants of the ancient Manteño civilization, providing a fascinating glimpse into Ecuador's pre-Columbian history.

How to Get There: Located about an hour from Manta, Agua Blanca can be reached by bus or car. The village is well-signposted within the national park.

Travel Tip: Participate in a guided tour offered by the local community to learn more about the area's history and natural wonders.

Where to Stay: Stay in Puerto Lopez for proximity to Agua Blanca, with Nautilus Hotel offering a comfortable and eco-friendly stay.

Where to Eat: Savor the catch of the day at the beachfront restaurant Cabaña de Don Anibal, where the seafood is always fresh and flavorful.

Salango Island

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Salango Island is a hidden treasure. This small island is a sanctuary for marine birds and offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving in the surrounding coral reefs. The island is also home to an archaeological museum showcasing pre-Columbian artifacts from the indigenous Salango culture.

How to Get There: Salango Island is accessible by boat from the town of Salango, which is about a 40-minute drive from Manta.

Travel Tip: Make sure to arrange a boat tour in advance, as the island is a protected area and access is regulated to preserve its natural beauty.

Where to Stay: In Salango, the Hosteria Piqueros Patas Azules offers a tranquil stay with ocean views and easy access to the island.

Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at the Hosteria Piqueros Patas Azules restaurant, where you can dine on fresh seafood with a view of the Pacific.

San Lorenzo Beach

San Lorenzo Beach is a lesser-known destination that offers a peaceful escape from the more crowded beaches. It's a great spot for surfing, with consistent waves and a laid-back atmosphere. The beach is also a starting point for paragliding adventures, offering stunning views of the coastline from above.

How to Get There: The beach is located about an hour and a half north of Manta by car. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is recommended.

Travel Tip: If you're into paragliding, don't miss the chance to soar over the coast. Local operators offer tandem flights for beginners.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are sparse in San Lorenzo, but nearby Manta offers a range of options, including the beachfront Hotel Balandra with its impressive pool and amenities.

Where to Eat: Back in Manta, dine at Restaurante Martinica for a fusion of international and local flavors in a sophisticated setting.

El Aromo

El Aromo is an unconventional destination that's perfect for digital nomads looking to immerse themselves in nature. This area is known for its extensive dry tropical forest and the chance to see wildlife such as deer, armadillos, and a variety of bird species. It's also a place for quiet contemplation and disconnecting from the digital world.

How to Get There: El Aromo is about a 30-minute drive from Manta. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore this rural area.

Travel Tip: Bring your binoculars and camera for wildlife spotting, and enjoy the serene environment away from the hustle and bustle.

Where to Stay: While there are no hotels in El Aromo, nearby Manta has plenty of options, such as the Wyndham Manta Sail Plaza Hotel and Convention Center, known for its modern amenities and ocean views.

Where to Eat: For a unique dining experience, visit the nearby town of Montecristi and enjoy traditional dishes at Tia Martha Restaurant.

Pacoche Wildlife Refuge

The Pacoche Wildlife Refuge is an ecological gem that offers a chance to explore one of the few remnants of coastal cloud forest in Ecuador. It's home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the howler monkey and the olinguito. Hiking trails wind through the lush vegetation, leading to waterfalls and offering spectacular views.

How to Get There: The refuge is located about 45 minutes south of Manta by car. It's best to drive or take a guided tour to this secluded area.

Travel Tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a rain jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable in the cloud forest.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations within the refuge, but the nearby town of Santa Marianita offers beachfront stays like the Kite Beach Hotel, catering to the kitesurfing crowd.

Where to Eat: After a day of hiking, enjoy a meal at the Donde Marianita restaurant in Santa Marianita, where the seafood is fresh and the views are stunning.

Whether you're looking for a cultural experience, a beach getaway, or an adventure in nature, these destinations around Manta, Ecuador, offer the perfect weekend escape for digital nomads and travelers alike.