10 Cultural and Coastal Adventures to Experience Year-Round in Esmeraldas Ecuador

Key takeaways:

• Esmeraldas offers a vibrant mix of Afro-Ecuadorian culture, beach life, and jungle exploration that can be enjoyed any time of year.

• From music festivals to hidden waterfalls, the region is perfect for travelers who want both nature and rhythm in one trip.

• This guide highlights authentic, year-round things to do that go beyond the tourist brochure and into local life.

Located on Ecuador’s northwestern Pacific coast, Esmeraldas is a tropical province and city that pulses with Afro-Ecuadorian heritage, music, and energy. Known for its marimba rhythms, lush rainforests, and golden-sand beaches, Esmeraldas blends nature and culture in a way few destinations do. The region has deep African roots, dating back to communities formed by shipwrecked enslaved people who established thriving coastal societies. Today, that legacy lives on in the music, food, dance, and warmth of its people. Whether you’re looking for a beach escape, jungle hike, or cultural immersion, Esmeraldas offers experiences that are both dynamic and grounded—all year long.

Table of Contents

1. Visit Las Peñas Beach and the Esmeraldas Malecon

2. Take a Jungle Hike in the Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve

3. Experience Afro-Ecuadorian Music and Dance in Borbón

4. Relax in the Thermal Waters of Atacames

5. Explore the Museo Regional de Esmeraldas

6. Discover Hidden Waterfalls in Muisne

7. Attend the Festival de la Marimba in August

8. Try Coastal Cuisine Like Encocado de Camarón

9. Birdwatch Along the Río Santiago

10. Take a Boat Tour Through the Mangroves

1. Visit Las Peñas Beach and the Esmeraldas Malecon

Start your Esmeraldas journey with a visit to Las Peñas Beach, located just north of the city and known for its scenic beauty and relaxed atmosphere. The wide shoreline is perfect for sunbathing, playing soccer with locals, or enjoying fresh seafood from beachside stalls. Just a short drive away is the Malecón de Esmeraldas, a revitalized waterfront boardwalk that offers ocean views, public art, and vibrant nightlife.

The Malecón comes alive in the evenings, with food vendors, street performers, and families enjoying the breeze. It’s the perfect spot to stroll after dinner or grab a drink and watch the sunset over the Pacific. This area blends natural beauty with city energy and is accessible year-round thanks to Esmeraldas’ warm tropical climate. Whether you’re into beach vibes or city strolls, this combo delivers both.

2. Take a Jungle Hike in the Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve

For nature lovers and adventure seekers, a visit to the Cayapas-Mataje Ecological Reserve is a must. This expansive protected area contains dense rainforests, winding rivers, and abundant wildlife—including monkeys, toucans, and rare orchids. The reserve is home to several Afro-Ecuadorian and Indigenous communities, many of whom offer eco-guided tours that combine environmental education with cultural exchange.

You can hike through trails that lead to hidden waterfalls, paddle through mangrove forests, or simply soak in the untouched beauty of the jungle. Tours are available year-round, but it’s best to go early in the day when the humidity is lower and animals are more active. Don’t forget insect repellent, a good pair of shoes, and your camera—you’ll want to remember this adventure.

3. Experience Afro-Ecuadorian Music and Dance in Borbón

Borbón, located along the Río Santiago, is a cultural hotspot where Afro-Ecuadorian traditions come alive through music, dance, and community celebrations. Here, you can witness or even participate in marimba music sessions, where the rhythm is fast, joyful, and contagious. Many local cultural centers offer workshops or host impromptu performances that welcome visitors with open arms.

What makes Borbón unique is how deeply music is tied to everyday life—it’s not a show, it’s an expression. Whether it’s a family gathering or a larger festival, the sense of connection through rhythm is powerful. Don’t be shy—clap along, learn a few dance steps, and let yourself be moved. It’s an experience you won’t find in guidebooks but one that stays in your heart.

4. Relax in the Thermal Waters of Atacames

While Atacames is known for its party beach scene, it also offers natural wellness experiences like thermal baths and hot springs, perfect for a low-key day of relaxation. Several small resorts and eco-lodges in the area have access to mineral-rich waters said to relieve stress and improve circulation. The lush surroundings and bird calls make it a peaceful escape, especially in the early mornings.

These thermal waters are open year-round and are especially soothing during or after the rainy season. After soaking, grab a fresh fruit smoothie or a plate of ceviche from a nearby stand and continue your chill day by the sea. Atacames gives you the best of both worlds—fun when you want it, serenity when you need it.

5. Explore the Museo Regional de Esmeraldas

For a deeper understanding of the region’s past and present, spend time at the Museo Regional de Esmeraldas, located in the city center. The museum offers exhibits on Afro-Ecuadorian heritage, colonial history, pre-Columbian artifacts, and local art. It’s a small space but thoughtfully curated, and many of the displays highlight cultural resilience and identity.

Guided tours are sometimes available, and signage is in Spanish with helpful visuals. It’s a great stop to make on a hot afternoon or before heading out to explore more of the city. Museums like this one add depth to your trip, helping you connect with the stories behind the people, music, and landscapes you’ll encounter. And best of all—it’s free or very low-cost.

6. Discover Hidden Waterfalls in Muisne

Located on a nearby coastal island, Muisne is one of the most laid-back areas of Esmeraldas—and it’s home to hidden waterfalls that many travelers never hear about. These serene cascades are tucked into the green hills behind the beach and require short but rewarding hikes through tropical forest. You’ll often have them all to yourself, making them perfect for a refreshing swim or picnic.

Local guides can lead you safely through these trails, sharing stories about the plants and animals that live in the area. The waterfalls flow best during and right after the rainy season but remain beautiful all year. After your hike, relax on the quiet shores of Muisne with a coconut in hand. This is slow coastal living at its finest.

7. Attend the Festival de la Marimba in August

Every August, Esmeraldas hosts the Festival de la Marimba, a joyful celebration of Afro-Ecuadorian music, dance, and heritage. This festival honors the marimba, a wooden percussion instrument that’s central to local identity. Expect energetic performances, colorful parades, storytelling, and open-air concerts that last late into the night.

The event usually takes place in the city but spills over into nearby communities with satellite events. It’s a great chance to meet locals, taste traditional food, and feel the rhythm that defines the region. You don’t need to be an expert in dance or music—just come with an open heart and be ready to celebrate. The energy is contagious and unforgettable.

8. Try Coastal Cuisine Like Encocado de Camarón

No trip to Esmeraldas is complete without trying its iconic coastal dishes, especially encocado de camarón—a creamy coconut-based shrimp stew. This dish is rich, comforting, and full of local flavors like coriander, lime, and garlic. You’ll find it at beach shacks, city cafés, and home-style restaurants all across the region.

Other must-try foods include patacones (fried green plantains), tigrillo (a mashed plantain and cheese dish), and freshly caught grilled fish served with rice and avocado. Many dishes are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making them accessible to most diets. Every bite connects you to the land and sea that shape daily life here. Come hungry—you won’t be disappointed.

9. Birdwatch Along the Río Santiago

The Río Santiago is one of Esmeraldas’ most biodiverse river systems and a paradise for birdwatchers. As you move along the riverbanks—whether by foot or small boat—you’ll spot dozens of species, including kingfishers, herons, toucans, and perhaps even the elusive Ecuadorian ground dove. Early mornings offer the best opportunities for sightings and the most magical light.

Many local eco-guides specialize in birding and can help you identify rare species or explore off-the-beaten-path spots. Bring binoculars, bug spray, and a quiet spirit—it’s not just about spotting birds, but soaking in the silence and beauty of the river. If you’re a nature lover, this is one of the most peaceful and rewarding things you can do in Esmeraldas.

10. Take a Boat Tour Through the Mangroves

Wrap up your Esmeraldas adventure with a boat tour through the mangrove estuaries, which stretch along much of the province’s coastline. These mangrove forests are crucial ecosystems teeming with crabs, fish, birds, and more. Gliding through their winding waterways is like entering a hidden world of tangled roots, calm waters, and rich biodiversity.

Tours are available year-round and are often led by community-based cooperatives that prioritize sustainability and education. Some include fishing demonstrations or visits to local villages built on stilts. It’s relaxing, scenic, and deeply connected to the rhythms of coastal life. Don’t skip this—it’s a quiet but powerful highlight of the region.

What to do if you have kids?

Esmeraldas is an excellent destination for kids, especially those who enjoy the outdoors and hands-on learning. The beaches are wide and gentle, making them great for swimming, playing soccer, or building sandcastles. Cultural events like the marimba festival are vibrant and kid-friendly, with plenty of music and dancing. Jungle hikes and boat tours can be tailored to families, and many guides love teaching kids about plants, birds, and local legends. Just bring sun protection, snacks, and maybe a small travel notebook—there’s plenty here to inspire young minds.

Where can I find free events in Esmeraldas Ecuador taking place this weekend?

To find free concerts, food markets, beach cleanups, or live marimba performances happening this weekend in Esmeraldas, head to PlanMyWeekend.ai. This smart event-finding tool curates local, free, and alcohol-free experiences based on your location and interests. Whether you’re looking for cultural events, outdoor adventures, or family-friendly fun, it’ll help you uncover real experiences that locals love. Skip the guesswork and explore what’s happening now with just a few clicks—it’s your shortcut to living like a local.

Final thoughts on planning your trip to Esmeraldas

Esmeraldas is more than a beach destination—it’s a place where music pulses through the streets, nature wraps around every corner, and heritage is alive in every smile. From waterfall hikes and seafood feasts to river tours and rhythm-filled festivals, this coastal region offers something fresh every month of the year. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want more than just pretty views—they want connection. If you’re looking for a trip that’s rich in culture, flavor, and heart, Esmeraldas is waiting for you.

Author: Dejon Brooks

Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai