Manta, Ecuador

Manta is Ecuador’s fifth-largest city and is often ranked first among the world’s sun and sand set as it is home to some of South America’s most beautiful beaches: Barbasquillo, Santa Marianita and San Lorenzo among them. That said, it’s no surprise to find that nautical activities abound here, from waterskiing and deep-sea fishing to kite-boarding and wind surfing, a sport serious enough to draw the South American championships to the city recently.

Manta derives its name from the ancient Mantamanian Indians who long ago populated the region. Visitors needn’t travel far from Manta to explore local towns rich in culture and craftwork, from Montecristi to La Pila, just outside of Manta, where local art pottery is a favorite take-home among visitors.