Isla de la Plata, Ecuador
    Zona Marina Parque Nacional Machalilla

    Isla Salango

    Best months: Jan–May

    Protected Area

    Zona Marina Parque Nacional Machalilla

    Why dive here

    With 145+ marine species recorded in the area - including blue whales, dolphins, humpback whales, manta rays and mobula rays (devil rays) - Isla Salango offers some of Isla de la Plata's richest diving. Water ranges 25-28°C, warmest February, March, April.

    Best timeJan–May
    WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit
    Marine lifeBlue Whales, Dolphins, Humpback Whales, Manta Rays and Mobula Rays (Devil Rays) · 145+ species recorded
    Water25-28°C · warmest February, March, April
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    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.

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Isla Salango

    Isla Salango Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Isla Salango, sourced from Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: Open-Meteo marine grid (-1.94, -80.79) (26km away)

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    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    25°C

    76°F · Range: 23.5–25.9°C

    Current Speed

    2.24 cm/s

    Direction: NE (63.4°)

    Chlorophyll-a

    0.733 mg/m³

    Moderate productivity

    Salinity

    33.26 PSU

    Based on 4 years of monitoring data · Data sources: Open-Meteo marine data + Copernicus Marine (EU)

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