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Salinas, Ecuador - Things to Do in Salinas

Things to Do in Salinas

Salinas, Ecuador - Complete Travel Guide

Salinas is Ecuador's premier beach resort destination, located on the Pacific coast in the Santa Elena Province. Known as the 'Riviera of Ecuador,' this modern coastal city offers pristine beaches, upscale resorts, and excellent seafood dining. The city transforms from a quiet fishing village to a bustling resort town during peak season, attracting both international tourists and wealthy Ecuadorians seeking sun and relaxation. Beyond its beautiful beaches, Salinas serves as a gateway to the broader Santa Elena Peninsula, rich in archaeological sites and natural wonders. The city's malecón (waterfront promenade) buzzes with activity, lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. Salinas offers a more polished beach experience compared to other Ecuadorian coastal destinations, with modern amenities and infrastructure that cater to discerning travelers seeking comfort alongside natural beauty.

Top Things to Do in Salinas

Beach Activities at Playa de Salinas

Enjoy the main beach with its calm waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach offers jet ski rentals, parasailing, and banana boat rides. The wide sandy stretch is ideal for beach volleyball and long walks along the shore.

Booking Tip: Water sports equipment can be rented directly on the beach for $15-30 per hour. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best rates and fewer crowds. Look for operators with newer equipment and proper safety gear.

Deep Sea Sport Fishing

Salinas is renowned for world-class sport fishing, particularly for marlin, sailfish, tuna, and mahi-mahi. Charter boats depart from the marina offering half-day and full-day fishing excursions. The waters off Salinas provide some of the best big game fishing in South America.

Booking Tip: Full-day charters cost $800-1500 for up to 6 people, half-day trips $400-800. Book through established operators at the marina with modern boats and experienced captains. Peak fishing season is December through April.

La Chocolatera Lighthouse Visit

Visit Ecuador's westernmost point at La Chocolatera, featuring a historic lighthouse and dramatic coastal views. The area offers excellent whale watching opportunities during migration season and spectacular sunset views. The rocky coastline creates impressive waves that crash against the cliffs.

Booking Tip: Free to visit independently by taxi ($10-15 from city center) or rental car. Best visited in late afternoon for sunset views. During whale season (June-September), bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing.

Whale Watching Excursions

From June to September, humpback whales migrate through the waters off Salinas, offering incredible viewing opportunities. Boat tours depart from the marina for 3-4 hour excursions to observe these magnificent creatures breaching and playing in their natural habitat.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $40-60 per person and should be booked in advance during peak whale season. Choose operators with smaller boats for better viewing and less environmental impact. Morning tours often have calmer seas and better visibility.

Malecón Promenade and Nightlife

Stroll along Salinas' modern waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. The malecón comes alive at night with live music, dancing, and beachfront dining. Street vendors sell local crafts and snacks while families enjoy the ocean breeze and entertainment.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own. Restaurant reservations recommended for weekend dinners ($20-40 per person for quality seafood). The area is safest and most vibrant between 6 PM and midnight.

Getting There

Salinas is located 140 kilometers west of Guayaquil, Ecuador's largest city and main international gateway. The most convenient way to reach Salinas is by rental car or private transfer from Guayaquil's José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport, taking approximately 2.5 hours via the coastal highway. Regular bus service operates from Guayaquil's main terminal, with comfortable coaches making the journey in about 3 hours for $3-5. Some visitors also arrive via domestic flights to the small Salinas airport, though options are limited.

Getting Around

Salinas is a compact city that's easily walkable in the central beach and malecón areas. Taxis are abundant and inexpensive for longer distances, with rides within the city typically costing $2-5. Many hotels offer bicycle rentals for exploring the flat coastal roads. For visiting nearby attractions like La Chocolatera or archaeological sites, rental cars provide the most flexibility, though organized tours and taxi services are also available. The city's grid layout makes navigation straightforward for visitors.

Where to Stay

Malecón Waterfront
Playa de Salinas Beachfront
Chipipe Beach Area
Marina District
City Center
Punta Carnero

Food & Dining

Salinas boasts Ecuador's finest coastal cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and Pacific Rim influences. The malecón features upscale restaurants serving ceviche, grilled fish, and international cuisine, while beachfront palapas offer casual dining with ocean views. Local specialties include encebollado (fish soup), corvina (sea bass), and langostinos (prawns). High-end establishments charge $15-30 per entrée, while local comedores offer authentic meals for $5-10. The city's cosmopolitan nature means you'll also find Italian, Asian, and international options alongside traditional Ecuadorian fare.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Ecuador

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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La Briciola

4.7 /5
(3424 reviews) 3
meal_delivery

Carmine

4.6 /5
(1527 reviews) 4

Trattoria Piccolo Mondo

4.5 /5
(1337 reviews) 3

Riviera Restaurant in Guayaquil

4.6 /5
(1040 reviews)

Benvenuti Da Mauro

4.7 /5
(723 reviews) 2

La Caponata

4.6 /5
(641 reviews) 2
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When to Visit

The best time to visit Salinas is during the dry season from May to December, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are comfortable (70-80°F). This period offers the most reliable beach weather and calm seas. Whale watching season (June-September) is particularly special for wildlife enthusiasts. The wet season (January-April) brings higher temperatures and humidity but also the liveliest atmosphere as wealthy Ecuadorians vacation here. Holiday periods like Christmas, New Year, and Carnival see the highest prices and crowds but also the most vibrant nightlife and cultural events.

Insider Tips

Book accommodations well in advance for holidays and whale watching season, as the best hotels fill up quickly
Try the local breakfast specialty 'bolón de verde' (fried plantain balls) at beachfront cafes for an authentic start to your day
Visit the fish market early morning to see the daily catch and enjoy the freshest ceviche at nearby stalls for a fraction of restaurant prices

Explore Activities in Salinas