Things To Do
in Ventanas
Ventanas, Ecuador is a small coastal town in Manabí Province perched along the Pacific with warm, forgiving beaches. It preserves a relaxed fishing-town atmosphere, where daily life revolves around the harbor, markets, and seaside eateries. Visitors can savor fresh seafood, stroll sunset-lit shores, and explore nearby natural and cultural sights with ease.
Ventanas serves as a calm gateway to the broader Ecuadorian coast, offering authentic coastal life and scenic viewpoints without the crowds of bigger resorts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stunning sunrise over the Pacific Ocean as you enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian breakfast at a beachfront café. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the pristine shoreline, collecting seashells and enjoying the gentle ocean breeze. The morning is perfect for spotting local wildlife, with pelicans diving for fish just off the coast.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided boat tour to explore the nearby mangroves, where you can observe diverse flora and fauna including herons and iguanas. Enjoy a packed lunch on board while taking in the breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding landscape. As the tour concludes, you’ll have the opportunity to swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life.
As the sun sets, savor a delightful dinner at a local seafood restaurant, sampling the catch of the day paired with refreshing ceviche. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, where the sound of the waves creates a serene atmosphere. End your evening with a nightcap at a beach bar, enjoying the sounds of live music under the stars.
Begin your day by visiting the local artisan market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere while browsing handmade crafts. Engage with local artisans to learn about their techniques and the cultural significance of their work. Don’t forget to try a traditional breakfast dish, such as bolón de verde, at a nearby food stall.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Museum of Ventanas to delve deeper into the region's history and cultural heritage. The museum features fascinating exhibits about indigenous cultures, colonial history, and contemporary life in the area. Following your visit, take a stroll through the town’s charming streets, stopping by small cafés for a refreshing drink.
As the sun sets, join a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare classic Ecuadorian dishes using fresh, local ingredients. This hands-on experience will not only enhance your culinary skills but also deepen your appreciation for Ecuadorian cuisine. Wrap up your evening by enjoying the meal you’ve prepared with fellow participants, sharing stories and laughter.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $2-4 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi short ride | $3-7 |
| 🛒Groceries for a day | $8-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic coastal culture with fresh seafood
- Relaxed, friendly atmosphere and easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife infrastructure and amenities in some areas
- Weather can be seasonal, with rain and humidity affecting plans
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Ventanas
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft light over calm seas, with silhouettes of fishing boats and palm-fringed shore—perfect for long exposure and portrait shots.
Colorful boats, active morning fishing, and local vendors provide dynamic, authentic coastal scenes.
Pastel houses lining the shore offer charming, photogenic street scenes and vibrant contrasts against the sea.
Cliffside viewpoints provide sweeping panoramas of the Pacific and the endless horizon, ideal for sunset photography.
Food in Ventanas
Ventanas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty fish soup with cassava, onions, cilantro, and lime. A staple breakfast or brunch dish found at many beachfront stalls.
Must-Try!
Fresh mixed seafood cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and a spicy kick, usually served with popcorn or fried plantains on the side.
Fish cooked in a rich coconut sauce with peppers and onions, typically served with white rice and plantains.
Seafood fried rice tossed with peppers, herbs, and a touch of saffron or annatto for color.
Fried plantain slices topped with melted cheese, a popular accompaniment or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample tropical fruits, fresh fish, and inexpensive prepared foods; a good place to observe daily life and bargain for produce.
Beachfront vendors offer fritters, empanadas, yucca fries, and freshly pressed juices with ocean views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake or light hug with close acquaintances is common; greet people with eye contact and a warm tone.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in more private settings; it’s polite to offer a small tip when portraiture is requested.
Modest clothing is appropriate in churches and sacred sites; informal, relaxed attire is typical for the beach; avoid loud behavior in quiet neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Ventanas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In sit-down restaurants, 5-10% is common if service is good and not already included. Small tips to taxi drivers or street vendors are a kind gesture.
Cash in US dollars is widely accepted; many shops and restaurants also take cards, especially in tourist-friendly spots. ATMs are available in town and nearby towns for bank card withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June through September tends to be sunnier with less rain, making beach days and outdoor exploring reliably pleasant. Sea conditions are generally calmer, though mornings can be breezy.
October through May can bring frequent showers and higher humidity. Short, refreshing rain showers often pass quickly, but plan for occasional heavier rain and lush, green landscapes.
Ventanas at Night
Hiking in Ventanas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal park offers wildlife viewing and scenic hikes; boat trips to Isla de la Plata include on-island hiking options.
Lowland dry forest near the coast featuring a volcanic crater and easy hiking with opportunities to spot birds.
Airports
How to reach Ventanas by plane.
Closest major airport serving the coast; about an hour to 1.5 hours by car from Ventanas with connections to Quito, Guayaquil, and other cities.
Regional airport serving the Portoviejo area with domestic flights and limited international connections.
Major international gateways; typically require a domestic connection to reach the Ventanas area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Mestizo with smaller Afro-Ecuadorian communities; a mix of long-established families and newer residents drawn by fishing and tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favored activity on nearby beaches, with beginner-friendly spots and local instructors available.
A common pastime in parks and beaches; local pickup games and community leagues happen regularly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ventanas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy bean and rice dishes, yucca, plantains, fresh salads, and vegetable-based soups. Ask for dishes prepared with oil instead of meat stocks, and request seafood-free options when necessary.