The five beaches in Manabí that you must visit this Carnival holiday: natural spaces, gastronomy, and sports
Ecuador's Manabí province is gearing up for the Carnival holiday with unique beaches offering natural scenery, gastronomy, and various sports activities for tourists.
As Carnival approaches, the province of Manabí in Ecuador is preparing to receive thousands of tourists with an enticing array of offerings that include stunning landscapes and gastronomic delights. Each of the highlighted beaches—Los Frailes, El Murciélago, Canoa, Crucita, and Cojimíes—boasts distinct characteristics, appealing to different preferences, from environmental conservation to vibrant festivals and extreme sports. Local authorities are also coordinating security measures to ensure safety during the influx of visitors.
Los Frailes is particularly noteworthy, having been internationally recognized as the best beach on the Pacific coast in 2025, according to CIF Playas and the Ibero-American Proplayas Network. Located within Machalilla National Park, it is just 105 kilometers from Manta, making it an accessible destination for travelers seeking a pristine natural environment complemented by environmental protection efforts. The beach is renowned for its turquoise waters, white sands, and natural pools, making it a prime choice for those looking to connect with nature.
The combination of beautiful scenery, local cuisine, and various recreational activities makes Manabí's beaches a must-visit this Carnival. Whether visitors are looking to enjoy a serene day by the sea at environmentally conscious beaches or taking part in lively festival activities in areas like Manta, Manabí offers something for everyone, with the added assurance of safety measures being implemented by local authorities to enhance the tourist experience.