Isla Salango - Isla de la Plata

Isla Salango often gets overshadowed by its larger neighbour, Isla de la Plata, but we think that’s a mistake. This little island packs a surprising punch, especially for those of us who appreciate the smaller, more unusual stuff. We’ve had some truly fantastic dives here, the kind where you spend an hour in one spot just watching the rock crevices. Our favourite part is the sheer density of fish life in the nooks and crannies. You’ll spot Cortez Angelfish zipping around the rocks, and if you’re patient, a Beaubrummel or two peeking out. We’ve found the Pacific Mutton Hamlet here more often than anywhere else, and the Cominate Sea Catfish are always a curious sight. The reef isn’t about huge dramatic drop-offs; it’s more about intricate rock formations and swim-throughs, perfect for macro enthusiasts and photographers. Look for the Hourglass Morays tucked away, and keep an eye out for a Flat Tivela on the sandy patches. We’ve even been lucky enough to spot a Leatherback Sea Turtle cruising past the shallows. Currents here can be mild to moderate, making it a good spot for divers comfortable with a bit of a drift. The visibility can vary, but on a good day, it’s a vibrant, buzzing environment. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something a bit quieter, away from the bigger boats, and you enjoy really taking your time to explore the details.

Location: Isla de la Plata, Ecuador, South America
Coordinates: -1.596815, -80.865540

Marine Protected Area: Zona Marina Parque Nacional Machalilla

Best Time to Dive in Isla de la Plata

The warmest water temperatures in Isla de la Plata occur in February, averaging 27.3°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 24.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

January: 26.4°C
February: 27.3°C
March: 27.2°C
April: 26.4°C
May: 26.7°C
June: 26.4°C
July: 25.3°C
August: 24.8°C
September: 24.8°C
October: 25.3°C
November: 25.1°C
December: 25.3°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Isla de la Plata

Nearest Dive Centres to Isla Salango

Marine Life in Isla de la Plata

Home to 148 recorded species including 124 reef fish, 8 whales & dolphins, 5 other, 5 sharks & rays, 2 hard corals, 1 sea cucumbers.

Notable Species

Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea)
Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
Cowfish (Tursiops truncatus) - Whales & Dolphins
Mexican hogfish (Bodianus diplotaenia) - Reef Fish
Brown Sea Cucumber (Isostichopus fuscus) - Sea Cucumbers
Barberfish (Johnrandallia nigrirostris) - Reef Fish
Chameleon wrasse (Halichoeres dispilus) - Reef Fish
Sea Bass (Epinephelus labriformis) - Reef Fish
Cortez Rainbow Wrasse (Thalassoma lucasanum) - Reef Fish
Threeband Butterflyfish (Chaetodon humeralis) - Reef Fish
Acapulco damselfish (Stegastes acapulcoensis) - Reef Fish
Short-beaked Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis) - Whales & Dolphins
Bumphead Parrotfish (Scarus perrico) - Reef Fish
Spinster wrasse (Halichoeres nicholsi) - Reef Fish
King Angelfish (Holacanthus passer) - Reef Fish
Razor Surgeonfish (Prionurus laticlavius) - Reef Fish
Large-banded Blenny (Ophioblennius steindachneri) - Reef Fish
Black coral (Antipathes galapagensis) - Hard Corals
Sabertooth Blenny (Plagiotremus azaleus) - Reef Fish

Recommended Packing List for Isla Salango

Based on average water temperature of 25.9°C, currents 4 cm/s.

Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°C water needs minimal exposure protection
Mask - essential for every dive
Fins
BCD - buoyancy compensator
Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories