Salinas, perched on Ecuador's Pacific coast in the La Libertad province, blends relaxed beach vibes with fresh seafood, surf culture and striking sunsets; it’s famed for its long boardwalk, vibrant marina and nearby wildlife. The best time to visit is from June to September when the sea is calm and the weather is sunny.
Top Things to Do in Salinas/La Libertad
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Getting Around Salinas/La Libertad
From the Airport
Bus. The Guayaquil‑Salinas intercity bus departs from Terminal Terrestre Guayaquil; journey takes about 2.5 hours and costs around $5‑$7 Rideshare. Uber and Cabify operate in Guayaquil; a ride to Salinas costs roughly $30‑$40 and takes 2 hours Taxi. Official airport taxis are available at José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport; fixed fare to Salinas is about $35
Once You're There
Walking. The central Malecón, boardwalk and nearby beaches are flat and easily explored on foot Rideshare. Uber and Cabify are the most common apps for short trips within Salinas Car Rental. Several agencies (Avis, Localiza, Hertz) have desks at Guayaquil airport; a compact car is ideal for exploring surrounding beaches
Where to Stay in Salinas/La Libertad
Hotel picks for Salinas/La Libertad are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Salinas/La Libertad
Pizzeria La Perla★ 4.9 (54)Wood‑fired pizzas topped with local goat cheese and a house‑made ají sauce
La Brasa Grill★ 4.8 (275)Steakhouse famed for the churrasco a la plancha served with chimichurri and plantain chips
El Corral de la Costa★ 4.8 (15)Popular for its traditional encebollado breakfast, perfect for early surf sessions
Cevichería La Playa★ 4.5 (191)Renowned for its classic ceviche with freshly caught shrimp and a secret citrus‑marinade that locals rave about
Sushi House Salinas★ 4.5 (71)Combines Japanese technique with Ecuadorian fish; the sushi roll with mango and tuna is a hit
Mariscos El Bodegón★ 4.5 (37)Family‑run eatery celebrated for its arroz con mariscos packed with succulent crab and mussels
El Faro★ 4.4 (227)A beachfront spot famous for its grilled corvina served with a tropical fruit salsa
Restaurante La Casa del Mar★ 4.1 (22)Offers a panoramic ocean view and an award‑winning lobster thermidor
3 Days in Salinas/La Libertad
Coastal Walk & Sunsets
Morning. Stroll the Malecón de Salinas, stopping at the iconic Love Island (Isla del Amor) viewpoint and snap photos of the pier; then relax on Playa del Cristo for a quick dip.
Afternoon. Climb San Lorenzo Hill for panoramic city views, then visit La Chocolatera to see the dramatic sea‑blown rock formation.
Evening. Enjoy sunset from Mirador de la Pila while sipping a local drink, then dine at Cevichería La Playa for its signature ceviche.
Culture & History
Morning. Explore the Museo de la Ciudad Salinas to learn about the town’s maritime heritage, followed by a walk through the historic Casa del Mar.
Afternoon. Visit Parque Histórico Guayaquil to see restored colonial buildings and native wildlife exhibits.
Evening. Dine at El Faro for its celebrated grilled corvina and enjoy a night walk along the illuminated boardwalk.
Nature & Adventure
Morning. Book a whale‑watching tour (June‑September) departing from the Salinas Marina for a chance to see humpbacks up close.
Afternoon. After the tour, head to the nearby beach of La Libertad for surfing at La Pared, or relax on the quieter sands of Playa de la Loma.
Evening. Savor a hearty dinner at La Brasa Grill, known for its succulent churrasco, before a leisurely stroll on the Malecón under the stars.