The Machalilla National Park is a protected area along the Ecuadorian coast in the Manabi province. It is located South of the Mirador San Jose near Puerto Lopez and the small parish Machalilla. The Machalilla National Park has many beaches, forests and islands.

Between June to October visitors to the Machalilla Park can observe humpback whales that find their way in the Ecuadorian waters off the coast. These whales travel to the area to reproduce and many tour operators offer boat excursions to witness these amazing creatures swimming in the open waters.

These tours are normally half a day and generally include a guide (English or Spanish) and a boat with the safety equipment. It is recommended that if you have experience seasickness before, to take a dizziness tablet 30 minutes before boarding the boat. Please bring a water bottle, sunscreen, a windbreaker (June to October) and some snacks.

Machalilla Tours is one of the operators offering this type of excursion.