Hotels near Eloy Alfaro International Airport (MEC), Manta

Manta feels like a low-value-for-money vacation city and I don’t mean that in a negative way, just as a straightforward observation. I can imagine it may have had its charm at some point, but today it comes across as a run-down coastal town, similar to some of the poorer cities in northern France that just happen to be by the beach. If you’re coming from Europe, it might remind you of a low-budget party town in Spain not particularly beautiful, and with very little to do. The beach is average at best. The one true highlight is the fish, which is absolutely excellent. That said, I wouldn’t consider Manta a must-visit if you’re traveling to Ecuador.

I can completely say that I speak from experience and knowledge about this city. I'd lived in Manta, Manabi, Ecuador from December 1, 2003, until late June 2013. I felt that Manta was the lost jewel that I'd always been looking for. The city was bustling with commerce during the day and at night it came alive with fiestas and parties. The club scene was outstanding and little to no violence. Of course, they had the criminal element, but they knew to stay on their turf and not venture outward. The beaches were always alive and restaurants outstanding. I love the city and I go back often to visit my Godson and his family. Now, let's fast forward to 20 years later and the here and now. Since the uprising in Venezuela that led to the migration of their criminals to Ecuador and the corruption of the government of Ecuador since the presidency of President Correa ended, it has been a free for all of crime and violence. They have allowed illegals to enter and ravish the City of Manta, bringing their prostitution, drugs, and violent crime to a once peaceful and bustling city. No one, not even the police are doing something about it. Hence, la policia acostada, the term means the police laying down. I would visit Cuenca if I wanted to vacation in Ecuador or Guayaquil, but Guayaquil is much more down the drain than Manta. It is shameful what corruption and evil can do to a place. Now, you have it, the truth unfolded. My last time in Manta was May 19 thru June 1, 2023. The good people of Manta are still the best people on the planet. I feel so sorry for the situation that they are in.

Manta is a regional hub - hard to avoid but not really a tourist destination. We traveled by bus and the bus station is far from the city center. As experienced travelers, we made an intermediate hotel work for us but most tourists would probably prefer accommodations on the far side of the city above Murcielogo Beach. Downtown the restaurant Casa Rosada was great. If you want the beach and fishing village ambiance, pass by Manta and pick a coastal town further south.