Swap Guayaquil traffic for a salt-scented day on the Pacific: a guided boat ride from Ayangue to El Pelado lets you snorkel with sea lions and watch blue-footed boobies plunge. Expect an easy, wildlife-focused day with hotel pickup and lunch included.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the van onto coarse, warm sand and the sound of gulls and distant surf fills the air—Ayangue’s shoreline opens like a quiet gateway to the Pelado islet. The day begins with a coastal drive from Guayaquil, the highway unspooling through small fishing towns until the sea widens and the boat waits. Out past the surf, the El Pelado marine rocks rise like a low, wind-sculpted outcrop where sea lions sun themselves and blue-footed boobies dive with precise, comical intent.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Light fitness—suitable for most people; basic swimming ability recommended for snorkeling.
Wildlife
History
The Santa Elena coastline has been inhabited for millennia; nearby archaeological remains show long-standing coastal fishing cultures that continue to shape local livelihoods.
Conservation
El Pelado and surrounding reefs are sensitive marine habitats—avoid touching or feeding wildlife, use reef-safe products and follow guide instructions to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Day Trip Ayangue Beach & Snorkeling Activity in Pelado's Islote today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Strong equatorial sun and reflected light from the water make high-SPF, reef-friendly sunscreen essential to protect skin and marine life.
Wear water shoes
Rocky shore and boat decks make closed-toe water shoes useful for comfort and traction when entering and exiting the boat.
Basic swimming comfort required
While guides accompany snorkelers, being comfortable in open water and able to float or tread for short periods improves your experience.
Watch sea conditions
Visibility and wildlife interactions depend on calm seas—ask the guide about morning departures for the best snorkeling windows.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the nearby coral and marine life under strong equatorial sun.
Sturdy water shoes
Protects feet on rocky shores and provides grip boarding small boats.
Lightweight dry bag
Keeps phone, documents and a dry change of clothes safe from spray and sand.
Wetsuit rental (optional)
Helpful if you run cold or in cooler water months—operator does not include wetsuits by default.
winter