Salinas City Guide

Seafood is popular with dishes like ceviche and encebollado. Good international variety mainly in tourist spots. Some vegetarian and vegan options available. Food is often available late on weekends during peak season.

Nightlife is lively especially from December to April and on weekends. Bars and clubs are mostly around the boardwalk and city center.

Local cafes serve Ecuadorian coffee. Third-wave or specialty shops are limited but present.

Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory. Restaurants often include 10% service charge; otherwise 5-10% is customary. Taxi tipping is rare.

SIM cards are available from Claro and Movistar stores. Registration requires a passport. eSIMs are limited and depend on device and provider.

Tourist areas are mostly clean but less so in other parts. Regular waste pickup helps maintain sanitation.

Limited 24/7 services. Some minimarts open late but few 24-hour pharmacies or clinics.

Supermaxi and Mi Comisariato are main supermarkets with international products. Local markets offer fresh produce and seafood. Bargain only in markets, not supermarkets.

Credit and debit cards work in bigger stores and restaurants, but smaller shops and taxis usually need cash.

ATMs are easy to find near banks and commercial areas. Use them during the day and expect some fees from local and own banks.

Limited information on local or international schools. Most international schools are in bigger cities like Guayaquil.

The digital nomad scene is small with few coworking spots or meetups. Networking is informal.

Green spaces are mainly beaches and the Malecón, with no large parks.

Running is popular along the Malecón and beaches. Routes are safe and air quality is good.

Several gyms are available including a municipal option and private gyms.

Tennis courts are located in some private clubs and hotels; booking may be required.

No known public padel courts available.

Yoga classes sometimes offered by hotels or private instructors, with limited dedicated wellness centers.

Limited info on martial arts facilities. Some gyms may have basic boxing or fitness classes.

No skiing due to tropical climate and no snowy mountains.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are popular. Rentals and guided tours including whale watching are common during peak seasons.

Punta Carnero nearby offers waves for intermediate to advanced surfers. Olón and other spots 1+ hour away are softer for beginners. Water stays warm year-round.

Diving and snorkeling tours exist, often reaching Isla de la Plata. Marine life is diverse. Visibility varies seasonally.

There are public and private clinics. Private clinics have better care. English-speaking staff are rare. Pharmacies are widespread for common meds.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water.

Playgrounds along the boardwalk and beaches. Kid-friendly restaurants and baby supplies available. Whale watching tours and natural reserves nearby.

Ecuador offers legal protection but Salinas is more conservative. Public tourist spots are generally safe with low discrimination risks.

Pet accommodations vary. Veterinary services and supplies are available. Dogs are commonly walked on beaches with some restrictions.