Cities, beach, exploring, beach — we know the choice between kickin’ it on the shore and seeing all those sites can be a tough one, so we got rid of the struggle. Exploring highlights along Ecuador’s scenic coast will give you that laid-back vibe with a little extra sweetness when you get to stop at a cacao-farming hacienda. With time to see the colonial cities of Quito and Cuenca, you can then chill out in surfer’s paradise, Montañita. See? Debates aren’t so hard to win after all.

Day 1 Cuenca
Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Cuenca
Enjoy a free day to explore. Opt for a city tour or go hiking in Cajas National Park.

Day 3 Cuenca/Montañita
Head to the coastal laid-back surf town of Montañita. En route, stop at a traditional cacao hacienda.

Day 4 Montañita/Puerto López
Head to the beach town of Puerto Lopez and the beautiful Machalilla National Park that surrounds it. There are tons of activities in the area to take part in over the next few days.

Day 5 Puerto López
Enjoy free time to explore. Optional activities include hiking in Machalilla National Park, relaxing on white-sand beaches, or whale- watching (when in season). Or, opt for the popular day-trip to Isla del Plata, home to a variety of seabirds including blue-footed boobies and fantastic snorkelling that rivals the Galápagos.

Day 6 Puerto López/Quito
Fly Back to Quito and enjoy free time. Opt to take a city tour, ride the cable car up the nearby volcano, or relax in one of the city's many cafés and restaurants.

Day 7 Quito
Depart at any time.