Salinas and Playas can be reached along the coastal highway from Guayaquil. On kilometer 62 at "El Progreso" (Gómez Rendón), the road divides. One branch goes to Salinas within the Península de Santa Elena and the other to Playas, which is 30km from El Progreso. Playas is a famous getaway beach resort for city dwellers, also known as General Villamil on local maps. It is also infamous as a major fishing village and as the fleets of fishing vessels returns it is plagued with pelicans and frigate birds who pray around the area for loose scraps and leftovers.
Many locals also have their own beach homes located here in addition to several hotels, restaurants and bars. Peak time in holiday season is from December to April. There are also several showers, toilets and rooms for changing into bathing costumes along the beach, with fresh water, at moderate costs for rental, you may also use the area for good surfing with several major points for embarking on your chosen surf although be careful at weekends as overcrowding in the water can be dangerous as surfers crisscross in front of more experienced surfers. The whole area is encompassed by a recently improved Malecón through additional tree lined roads and grassed areas.
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