Machalilla National Park is one of the largest protected areas along the Ecuadorian coast. It is a 60,000-hectare coastal park located in the Manabí province. The park has many islands and beautiful beaches to enjoy. Machalilla National Park top destinations are Isla de la Plata (Silver Island), Isla Salango and Los Frailes beach. In addition, there are many species that live in Isla de la Plata such as sea turtles, fishes, dolphins, stingrays, and sea lions. Certainly, one of the main attractions takes place from June to September, when humpback whales that arrive on the coast of the park to mate, especially near Puerto López.

To get to the park from Quito, take the road Quito to Santo Domingo 94 mi. (151 km) towards Chone 87 mi. (140 km.) Then go southwest towards Manta (91 km). From Manta, take the Troncal del Pacífico road south to Jipijapa – Puerto Cayo – Puerto López 89 km (55 mi) road. If traveling from Guayaquil, take the road to Daule towards Nobol 25 mi (41 km.) Take the Nobol to Jipijapa road. From there, go west towards Puerto Cayo 17 mi (28 km) Then, take the Troncal del Pacífico (Pacific ocean main road) to Puerto López 20 mi (33 km).