Salinas Ecuador

Located in the Province of Santa Elena, Ecuador, Salinas used to be a small fishing village before the 1930s. Today, it is the country’s largest coastal resort and one of Ecuador’s most popular attractions. Sometimes called “Little Miami Beach” because of the many hotels and condominiums overlooking the ocean, many locals head to Salinas during the weekend. The place offers plenty of opportunities for water sports and recreational activities. Some of Ecuador’s most affluent citizens are also known to frequent the area, visiting spots such as the Salinas Yacht Club. The resort town is also known as a popular honeymoon destination, with newlyweds enjoying the great climate and the sandy beaches along the coastline.

Quick Facts

• Salinas is a perfect location for water sports. Some of the most popular water sports in the area are surfing, jet skiing, wakeboarding, waterskiing, and fishing.
• Restaurants at Salinas offer a superb variety of seafood. Some of the world’s finest ceviche can be tasted in restaurants such as Mar y Tierra. Besides seafood, there are other great popular dishes as well, such as “carne en palito” and “arroz con menestra”
• La Chocolatera, named because of the chocolate brown appearance of the water created by its sands, is a nearby attraction popular for diving, water sports, and marine life sighting.
• Plenty of handcrafted art can be purchased at Salinas. Many locals and even tourists who come from countries such as Chile and Argentina head to Salinas to sell some of their art.
• Salinas has a vibrant nightlife and there are plenty of things to do after the sun goes down. Take a relaxing stroll down Malecon Street and hit the many clubs and bars for an exciting evening.
• Spend an afternoon of shopping at nearby El Paseo Shopping Mall, a sprawling commercial complex filled with great shops, restaurants, and cinemas.