Salinas is a city nestled on the Santa Elena Peninsula, the westernmost point of continental Équateur. Welcoming over one million visitors annually, particularly from Guayaquil, it is the country's largest beach resort. The locality boasts numerous beaches. Ideal for sailing, jet-skiing, surfing, diving, snorkeling, and parasailing, it is a true paradise for water sports enthusiasts.

History

In its early days, this city in Santa Elena province was merely a modest fishing hamlet. However, its destiny shifted decisively in 1929, when it was declared a rural parish in the Salinas canton. Furthermore, in 1937, it was elevated to the status of the canton's administrative seat.

Salinas thrived through fishing and salt extraction during the first half of the 20th century, playing a crucial role in local maritime commerce. Another key factor in its development was its rail connection to Guayaquil (operational between 1936 and 1949), which strengthened its economic ties to neighboring regions.

Today, in addition to its renowned status as a beach resort, Salinas is also home to Ecuador's major naval base, as well as the Équateur Air Force University. It also serves as a selection and training center for Air Force pilots. All of this illustrates its remarkable evolution from its modest beginnings as a coastal village.

Discovering Salinas

The Beaches

Several beaches await you in Salinas and the surrounding region. Notable examples include San Lorenzo and Chipipe.

San Lorenzo beach is arguably Salinas' most beautiful shore. Lined with bars and restaurants, it is equally suited for relaxation and surfing.

Chipipe beach sits near Salinas Yacht Club. With its white sand and calmer waters than San Lorenzo, it is ideal for swimming. Restaurants and bars are also well-established here.

La Lobería and La Chocolatera

La Lobería is another stretch of the Santa Elena Peninsula's coastline not to be missed when exploring Salinas. Here you will observe a sea lion colony, as the area serves as a breeding ground for coastal marine wildlife.

La Chocolatera is equally worthwhile. It marks the peninsula's tip and captivates visitors with its powerful currents, which evoke swirling chocolate patterns.

The Salinas Malecón

The Salinas Malecón is a waterfront promenade that borders San Lorenzo beach and extends to Salinas Yacht Club. A stroll here is essential during any visit to Salinas, offering varied perspectives of the city throughout your walk.

The Whale Museum

The Whale Museum (Museum de Ballenas) is one of the finest museums in Santa Elena province. It will deepen your understanding of these magnificent marine mammals. The museum's centerpiece is a humpback whale skeleton measuring over 10 meters in length.

Museo Megatario

Museo Megatario, Équateur's first paleontological museum, presents visitors with a remarkable exhibition of megafauna remains from the Late Pleistocene era (between 50,000 and 8,000 years ago). These precious discoveries originate from Tanque Loma, a site in La Libertad canton and recognized as one of South America's largest and most significant fossil deposits.

Santa Elena

Visiting Salinas is also an opportunity to explore Santa Elena, the provincial capital. Just 12 kilometers separate the two cities.

A Selection of Salinas Hotels and Restaurants

For a stay marked by comfort, several establishments are available in the city. Hotel Marvento Suites offers a luxury experience complete with an outdoor pool and à la carte restaurant. Located just a two-minute walk from the beach, it is the perfect choice for beach lovers.

If you prefer more modest accommodations, Hotel Palmira Inn is an excellent option. Ranked 3rd among 18 hotels in Salinas, this establishment has received a 5 out of 5 rating on Tripadvisor.

Salinas also offers a variety of restaurants for food enthusiasts, featuring establishments serving both local specialties and international cuisine.

When to Visit Salinas

The best time to visit Salinas is during the dry season, from June to September, when sunny weather and pleasant temperatures make it ideal for enjoying the beaches and water activities.

Reaching Salinas varies depending on your starting point.

From Guayaquil:

By private car, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. If you opt for the bus, expect between 2 and 2.5 hours of travel. We recommend bus companies such as Cooperativa Libertad Peninsular (CLP), Liberpesa, or Costa Azul, available at Guayaquil's Terminal Terrestre. Ticket prices typically range from 4 to 8 dollars. The bus will drop you at the regional Sumpa bus terminal, from where you can take a taxi or another bus to reach Salinas.

From Quito:

You have the option to fly to Guayaquil, then drive or take a bus to Salinas. If you choose to make the entire journey by car, keep in mind it may take between 9 and 11 hours.