Things To Do
in San Vicente
San Vicente is a picturesque coastal town located in Manabi Province, Ecuador. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant local culture, and diverse marine life. The town offers opportunities for fishing, surfing, and snorkeling, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor activities.
The warm climate and friendly locals make San Vicente a welcoming place to visit for a relaxing beach getaway.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the lush hills surrounding San Vicente. Enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific coastline as you breathe in the fresh morning air.
Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture and delicious Ecuadorian cuisine. Sample fresh seafood and local fruits while interacting with friendly vendors.
Unwind at a beachside café and catch a beautiful sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a relaxing dinner of ceviche while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
Rent a bicycle and explore the coastal paths that wind through San Vicente. Enjoy the gentle breeze as you ride alongside the ocean, taking in the scenic beauty.
Stop at a nearby beach to take a dip in the warm waters and relax under the sun. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch while lounging on the sand.
Join a local cycling group for an evening ride and enjoy the cooler temperatures. Finish up with dinner at a local eatery serving traditional dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and scenic coastal views
- Warm climate year-round
- Vibrant local culture and community
- Affordable cost of living
- Access to fresh seafood and local cuisine
- Proximity to larger cities like Quito and Manta
- Opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities
- Limited healthcare facilities compared to larger cities
- Inadequate infrastructure in some areas
- Seasonal weather variations, including heavy rains
- Potential for tropical storms or hurricanes
- Limited job opportunities for expatriates
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
- Public transportation may be less reliable
Best Activities in San Vicente
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna while hiking through the trails at Chuylluma, a beautiful area near San Vicente.
Relax on the sandy shores of San Vicente Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy local seafood from beachfront vendors.
Embark on a boat tour during whale season (June to September) to witness the majestic humpback whales as they migrate along the coast.
Catch some waves at the nearby Canoa Beach, which is famous for its surf breaks and vibrant surf culture.
Take a boat trip to Cayo Culebra, a small island known for its pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Immerse yourself in the local culture with a guided tour of San Vicente, visiting artisan markets and learning about traditional crafts.
Paddle through the lush mangrove forests around San Vicente and witness the unique ecosystem and wildlife it supports.
Join a local fishing tour to experience sport fishing in the Pacific Ocean, targeting various species under the guidance of experienced fishermen.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Vicente with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Vicente
Visit one of these nice places.
A popular lookout point offering panoramic views of San Vicente and the coastline. It's an ideal spot for sunrise and sunset photography.
This beach provides a stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and picturesque palm trees, perfect for capturing beautiful beach scenes and sunsets.
A designated viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and the town below, making it an excellent spot for landscape photography.
The waterfront promenade is great for capturing the lively atmosphere of the town and stunning ocean views, particularly at dusk.
Located a short distance from San Vicente, this beach is renowned for its natural beauty, featuring cliffs and crystal-clear waters, making it a fantastic photo opportunity.
A secluded beach with dramatic rock formations and soft sand, it offers unique photography opportunities away from the crowds.
Food in San Vicente
San Vicente Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish, typically prepared with fresh fish, shrimp, or conch marinated in citrus juices, served with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Visit Marisquería El Cangrejo for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
A hearty fish stew flavored with onions, tomatoes, and yuca. For a delicious bowl, head to Mercado Municipal San Vicente or look for street vendors along the Malecón.
Mashed green plantains mixed with cheese, chicharrón (fried pork belly), and sometimes served with a side of ceviche. You can savor this dish at La Fonda de Dona Carmen.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Vicente better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks. You can find vendors offering a variety of empanadas, tamales, and freshly squeezed juices.
Take a stroll along the Malecón, where numerous street food stalls offer delectable treats like chifles (fried plantain chips), bollos (corn and peanut patties), and various types of ceviche.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San Vicente, it is customary to greet people with a friendly 'hola' and a handshake or a kiss on the cheek when interacting with friends and family. This shows respect and friendliness.
Dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Local customs lean toward conservative attire, which reflects respect for the culture.
Being punctual is appreciated, but there can be a relaxed approach to time within social situations. However, for formal events, it’s best to arrive on time to show respect for the host.
Safety
Tipping in San Vicente
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Vicente, Ecuador, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a tip of around 10% for good service in restaurants. However, in smaller establishments or local eateries, tipping may be less common. For taxi drivers and hotel staff, rounding up the fare or leaving small change is often sufficient.
Payment methods in San Vicente vary widely. While cash is the most commonly used form of payment, especially in markets and small shops, credit and debit cards are accepted in more upscale establishments and larger businesses. It is advisable to carry cash, particularly in rural areas, as electronic payment options may not be available. Additionally, the local currency is the US dollar, which makes transactions straightforward for visitors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season in San Vicente is characterized by less rainfall and pleasant temperatures. This is the best time for outdoor activities such as hiking, visiting beaches, and enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. Expect sunny days and cooler evenings, making it ideal for exploring the area.
During the wet season, San Vicente experiences higher humidity and frequent rain showers. While this may deter some visitors, the landscape becomes lush and vibrant. Travelers can expect warmer temperatures and opportunities for eco-tourism, such as exploring waterfalls and wildlife. The rain typically falls in short bursts, leaving plenty of time for activities between showers.
The shoulder seasons feature transitional weather, where visitors can experience a mix of dry and wet conditions. This is also a great time to visit, as tourist crowds are smaller and accommodations may be more affordable. Expect mild temperatures and a variety of activities, including cultural festivals and local events.
San Vicente at Night
Hiking in San Vicente
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A protected forest reserve located near Guayaquil, offering various hiking trails with stunning views and diverse wildlife.
A national park that encompasses a variety of landscapes, including mountains and forests, ideal for hiking enthusiasts looking for adventure and biodiversity.
Known for its high-altitude lakes and unique flora and fauna, Cajas boasts numerous trails that offer breathtaking views and challenging terrains.
A popular hiking destination that provides panoramic views of the surrounding area and is easily accessible from nearby towns.
Offers a range of hiking trails through beautiful paramo landscapes, showcasing unique ecosystems and wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach San Vicente by plane.
Located in Guayaquil, about 150 km from San Vicente, this is one of the largest international airports in Ecuador.
Situated in Quito, approximately 300 km from San Vicente, it is the main airport serving the capital city.
Located in Manta, this airport is about 40 km from San Vicente and serves domestic and limited international flights.
Found in Esmeraldas, about 170 km from San Vicente, it caters primarily to domestic flights with some international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in San Vicente, primarily of mixed Indigenous and European descent.
Includes various Indigenous groups native to the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of San Vicente.
A significant population with African ancestry, mainly found in coastal areas including San Vicente.
Composed of descendants from European immigrants, contributing to the multiethnic composition of the area.
Includes expatriates and individuals from other regions or countries living in San Vicente.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in San Vicente, Ecuador, with a strong community following and numerous local teams.
Volleyball is widely played, especially on the beaches, attracting both locals and tourists.
Surfing is popular due to the coastal location of San Vicente, with various spots suitable for surfers of all levels.
Basketball has a growing fan base, with many courts available for recreational play and local tournaments.
Track and field events are common, with local schools and clubs promoting athletics among youth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Vicente.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes heavily feature seafood and meats, many restaurants and cafes in San Vicente offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives like fresh salads, vegetable tamales, and plantain-based dishes.
Some establishments in San Vicente cater to gluten-free needs, with options such as grilled fish, ceviche, and fruit-based desserts. However, it's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly when dining out.