Ecuador Travel

Ferry port, Bahia to San Vicente

Overview

The tranquil beach city of San Vicente is yet another peaceful, serene stretch of shoreline along the Manabi province coast of Ecuador. Just across the water from Bahia de Caraquez, San Vicente offers sandy beaches, waterfront access, and plenty of opportunities for ocean activities. San Vicente is also flanked by the Chone River, with its waters flowing past the city and into the ocean. The city itself is also full of local charm, with plenty of good restaurants, markets, and a community atmosphere. The pace in San Vicente is slow and the people are friendly, making it a prime location for those hoping to relax and take in the delights of Ecuador’s northern coast.

History

Like much of the Northern Coast of Ecuador, the culture is marked by a strong Afro-Ecuadorian presence. These people trace their roots to the African slaves brought by the Spanish during their conquest of the Inca Empire in the 16th century. This heritage, mixed with the indigenous and Spanish cultures give the culture a distinct flair and has an influence on the gastronomy, music, and dance of San Vicente.

Although San Vicente has long been regarded as a less frequented coastal destination than towns like Salinas, Montanita, or Canoa, its popularity is sure to rise. In an effort to bolster the local economy through sustainable tourism, the Ecuadorian Government has made the renovation of San Vicente’s airport a top priority. Flights will soon connect directly to Quito and highways are being renovated as well in an effort to facilitate access to San Vicente. Soon, San Vicente and the surrounding towns will become the closest and most easily accessible stretch of beach for the residents of Ecuador’s capital. San Vicente may become the choice beach for Ecuadorians to establish their second home.

Attractions

San Vicente’s position along the Pacific shoreline and close to the Chone River gives it plenty of opportunities for activities like fishing. Visitors with their own equipment can cast their line right off the beach, while those without fishing rods can rent them from local agencies. For the best experience, hire a local fishing guide to charter you on a fishing trip. These trips set out into the water for deep-sea fishing, or linger in the River Chone for an inland adventure. Ask around to get the best price or ask your hotel for a recommendation. Local restaurants can cook your catch should you be so lucky.

San Vicente, like much of the Manabi province coast, is also great for sailing. Boats take off into the ocean from San Vicente beach or go on river rides down the Chone River toward the town of Chone. Either option gives travelers front row seats to experience some of the Northern Coast’s best flora and fauna. The sandy beaches meet the lush, green forests that house a large collection of birds and mammals. Tours can be arranged within the San Vicente city limits.

Although the waves don’t reach the heights of Montanita, Canoa, or Ayampe, San Vicente still offers ample opportunity for surfing. Board rentals and lessons are available with local agencies and can cater to any skill level. Unlike some of the aforementioned cities, you won’t have to wait in line to catch waves in San Vicente.

The small city of San Vicente also has its own attractions off the sand. The main Church of Santa Rosa is a popular visit, with ornate murals and windows of mosaic stained glass. The daily market is also a sight to behold, located up the road on the way to San Isidro. A walk up San Vicente’s hill is also recommended, as it affords great view of the city and the neighboring town of Bahia de Caraquez.

One of the biggest draws in San Vicente is the seafood itself. Local restaurants serve up the freshest of the day’s catch, preparing the meals with the unique flavors of coastal Ecuador’s diverse culture. At night, travelers feast on the fish they watched the fisherman haul in just that afternoon. An “almuerzo” or lunch usually costs between one and three dollars with a dinner costing around six dollars.

San Vicente is also attractive for its proximity to the popular Isla Corazon or “Heart Island.” This mangrove island is named for its naturally occurring heart shape. Isla Corazon is located on the Chone River estuary and is host to one of the biggest frigate bird colonies in the world. The brown pelican is also found on Isla Corazon. Local fishermen expanded the island through preservation efforts and now lead canoe trips around the ecosystem of mangroves. These tours leave from San Vicente’s neighboring town Puerto Portovelo.

Getting to and away

There are two options for transportation to and from San Vicente by boat. “Pangas” or passenger boats pass regularly from Bahia de Caraquez to San Vicente. This boat ride costs less than one dollar and takes about ten minutes. There is also a car ferry between the two towns that is free for foot passengers.

Bus is the most popular means of transportation to and from San Vicente. Travelers can find regular bus service through Reina del Camino to Guayaquil (six and a half hours, $4-6), Portoviejo ($1-3), Chone (50 minutes, $1-2), Esmeraldas ($5-7) and even Quito (eight hours, $6-7).

As agreements are reached, San Vicente’s airport will soon be easily connected to Quito. Flights will be direct and affordable.

When to go

December through May marks the Northern Coast’s rainy season. This season is marked by high heat and humidity. The months of June, July, and August are the most popular tourist months so be mindful of crowds and peak season prices in the summer. For more temperate weather and less crowded beaches, try the months of May or September on either end of the peak season.