Any suggestions for a clean and tranquil place to stay in Puerto Lopez. We are thinking 3 nights there with main focus on visiting Isla de La Plata.
My husband is a certified scuba diver and I snorkel. This will be an extension for a birding trip in the Mindo area. Thinking January 2026.
We will end our bird tour in Quito so will plan a flight from Quito to Manta and then I guess a bus. Appreciate any info on transportation too since I am
the early stages of planning.

Earlier this year, we spent a few nights in Puerto López and it was a great starting point for Isla de la Plata. Three nights would be an ideal amount of time—one day would be the island trip, one for relaxing, and maybe snorkeling or diving, and one for travel or exploring the beach.

If you are interested in a more tranquil place to stay, look just outside of the main town—places like Mantaraya Lodge, Azuluna Ecolodge, or Nautilus Lodge—would be relaxing and clean, while still being a short distance from the pier.

You can get there fairly easy by flying into Quito → Manta, and then take a bus or private transfer that takes about two hours. If you are hauling diving gear, then a more comfortable option would be a private transfer.

January is warm and a great time for snorkeling and birding, though it is past whale season. Just remember to pack sunscreen and maybe some insect repellent, because it can get humid once you are on the coast.