Things To Do
in Salinas
Salinas, Ecuador is a sun-kissed coastal resort on the Pacific, known for its wide beaches and lively boardwalk. The town beams with seafood restaurants, palm-lined promenades, and a relaxed, vacation-friendly vibe. It serves as a convenient base for exploring the Santa Elena peninsula and nearby surf towns.
Expect warm hospitality, fresh seafood, and easy access to water activities year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Salinas Beach, where the soft golden sands stretch along the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront café, savoring fresh seafood and local fruits. Take a stroll along the promenade, soaking in the salty air and the vibrant atmosphere.
After basking in the sun, spend your afternoon at the Santa Elena Peninsula, where you can explore the beautiful coastline and perhaps try your hand at water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing. Don't forget to indulge in a refreshing coconut drink from one of the local vendors. As the sun begins to lower, capture the breathtaking views of the ocean from the cliffs.
In the evening, unwind at one of the lively beachfront restaurants, where you can feast on locally caught fish and classic Ecuadorian dishes. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife as you listen to live music, or take a peaceful moonlit walk along the beach. End your day with a cocktail while watching the sunset paint the sky in brilliant hues.
Dive into Salinas' rich culture by visiting the local markets, where vibrant textiles and artisan crafts are displayed. Sample traditional breakfast items, such as empanadas and hot chocolate, while interacting with friendly vendors. Embrace the colorful atmosphere and begin to understand the local way of life.
Head towards the nearby town of La Libertad to join a cooking class that showcases Ecuadorian cuisine, learning how to prepare local dishes with fresh ingredients. Experience the joy of cooking while getting to know your fellow participants. In the late afternoon, visit the Museo de Arqueología, where you can learn about the region's pre-Columbian history.
Return to Salinas for a relaxed evening stroll along the waterfront promenade, where street performers and local artists contribute to the lively ambiance. Choose a cozy café or bar to enjoy a leisurely dinner, trying out more regional specialties. Conclude your night by mingling with locals and travelers alike, sharing stories over drinks.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay (budget) | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and a relaxed, friendly vibe
- Excellent seafood and fresh coastal cuisine
- Convenient base for exploring the Santa Elena peninsula
- Moderate, walkable town center with sunset views
- Seasonal crowds can peak at weekends and holidays
- Some services and attractions operate on seasonal schedules
- Public transport outside the town area is limited
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
Places to Visit in Salinas
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic headland with rugged coastlines and powerful waves; best for dramatic sunrise or sunset shots and ocean textures.
Long seaside promenade with palm trees, colorful boats, and vibrant sunsets; great for street and landscape photography.
Coastal cliffs and lighthouse with sweeping sea views; offers great vantage points for wide-angle coastal scenes.
Early morning hustle of boats and fishermen; ideal for candid photography and maritime atmosphere.
Food in Salinas
Salinas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh corvina marinated in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and peppers, typically served with plantain or fried yuca.
Must-Try!
A hearty tuna soup with yuca, onions, and cilantro; a popular hangover cure and breakfast favorite on the coast.
Fish simmered in a rich coconut sauce with peppers and spices, usually served with rice.
A mixed seafood ceviche featuring shrimp or squid in citrusy sauce with herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market offering fresh seafood, produce, and local snacks; great for a quick, authentic bite.
Seafood stalls along the promenade serving ceviche, fried fish, empanadas, and other coastal specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake or a cheek kiss among friends; greet shopkeepers politely with 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes.'
Ask before photographing people or private spaces; respect local customs and private property, especially near religious sites.
Dress modestly in public spaces and churches; swimwear is appropriate on the beach but not in town streets; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Ecuadorians are friendly and hospitable; politeness and small courtesies go a long way when engaging with locals.
Safety
Tipping in Salinas
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10% service charge is common if not included in the bill; otherwise, a 5–10% tip is appreciated. For guides or drivers, small tips are customary depending on service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels and higher-end restaurants; cash is preferred in markets and small vendors. Carry some small bills for tips and street purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Approximately June–September. Hot, sunny days with refreshing sea breezes; lower humidity and less rainfall; ideal for long beach days and outdoor activities.
Approximately October–May. Higher humidity with intermittent showers or short tropical rains; afternoons can be humid, but evenings remain warm and pleasant for sunsets.
Salinas at Night
Hiking in Salinas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Light coastal trails between Montañita and Olón with viewpoints along the cliffs; best during dry season for easier footing.
Cliffside paths and scenic overlooks offering ocean panorama and sunset photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Salinas by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; drive time to Salinas is typically 2–3 hours depending on traffic.
Farther option for travelers connecting from the highlands; longer drive or domestic flight connection needed.
Another alternative for regional connections, typically a longer trip to reach Salinas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly mix of mestizo and local coastal communities with strong hospitality traditions.
Domestic travelers and international visitors, especially during holidays and summer months.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Coastal surf spots attract beginners to intermediate surfers with rental shops and lessons available along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Salinas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer veggie plates and salads. Look for arroz con vegetales or veggie ceviche alternatives; vegetarian options may be limited in markets, so ask clearly and consider plant-based sides like plantains, yuca, and salads.