In the Province of Contralmirante Villar, you can explore the coast according to specific interests: Playa Bonanza combines marine life observation with snorkeling, while Playa Acapulco is suitable for swimming thanks to its moderate waves. There is also a memorial site in Zorritos and the distinct sections of Playa Punta Sal. When planning your trip, it may be helpful to first choose the places and activities that you want to shape your stay.

Beaches with different highlights

At Playa Bonanza, you can observe various marine species in small rocky pools at low tide. Snorkeling is also possible directly from the beach without special equipment. From the main road, a short walk takes you to Playa Bonanza. As access conditions may change, check access before your visit.

Playa Acapulco offers a different point of reference: its waves are moderate and suitable for swimming. The information about Bonanza and Acapulco emphasizes different things — observing the pools and snorkeling at low tide in one place, and waves suitable for swimming in the other. Playa Punta Sal in Canoas de Punta Sal, meanwhile, comprises three coastal areas: Punta Sal Chica, Playa Punta Azul, and the resort town of Punta Sal Grande. If you are looking for accommodation, you can use these place names as a starting point for your own research.

Culture and history in Zorritos

In Plazuela Faustino Piaggio in Zorritos, a wooden tower commemorates the drilling of South America’s first oil well on November 2, 1863. This memorial site adds a specific historical dimension to the beach-related attractions. The province thus brings coastal experiences and a memorial site together, without requiring them to be combined into a single excursion.

A distinct theme within the wider destination of Tumbes

At the level of the wider destination of Tumbes, mangroves are central to both cultural and culinary themes. In 2022, the knowledge, expertise, and practices involved in harvesting black mangrove cockles and red mangrove crabs from the mangroves of Tumbes were declared National Cultural Heritage. Cebiche de conchas negras, prepared with black mangrove cockles from the mangroves of Tumbes, is one of the coastal region’s well-known specialties.

At Santuario Nacional Los Manglares de Tumbes, the Ruta Tradicional offers opportunities for birdwatching. The Ruta Especializada runs from Embarcadero de Puerto 25 or Puesto de Control El Algarrobo via Isla Matapalo to Punta Capones. This route also includes a demonstration of the harvesting of hydrobiological resources. The two routes therefore offer different highlights: birdwatching on the Ruta Tradicional, and a longer series of named stops, along with a demonstration, on the Ruta Especializada.

The road journey from Zarumilla to the Puerto 25 checkpoint is listed as 5 kilometers and 10 minutes. The Rica Playa sector is the main access point to Parque Nacional Cerros de Amotape; there are tours here that combine nature, adventure, and relaxation. At Bocana Carrillo, visitors can travel along the Río Tumbes, fish for recreation, and go canoeing. Rica Playa also has areas suitable for camping. Reserva Nacional de Tumbes is part of Reserva de Biosfera del Noroeste.

Discover more destinations: Plateritos, Zorritos, Tumbes, Province of Tumbes.

Go to the wider travel overview: Tumbes.