Malecón del Salado is a waterfront promenade along the Estero Salado, an estuary on the western side of Guayaquil, Ecuador. It is a quieter alternative to the larger Malecón 2000. The walk passes shaded paths, small plazas, benches and art installations, with pedestrian bridges over the water. Families use the playgrounds, and many people come for an evening stroll and the sunset over the estuary. Seafood restaurants, bars and music venues line the route, so you can end the walk with a meal.
From a former resort to a public promenade
The Malecón del Salado runs along the Estero Salado, an arm of the sea on the western side of downtown Guayaquil. The promenade was built in 2009 as part of the city's urban regeneration, on the site of a former seaside resort. It takes its name from the estuary it straddles, which is a tributary of the Guayas river.
The project turned an old waterfront into a planned public walkway. The result is a space designed for walking, sitting and spending time outdoors rather than a stretch of leftover riverbank.
Along the promenade
The walkway is a little under 400 meters long. It rises and dips over pedestrian bridges, so the route feels more like a stroll than a flat path. Small plazas, benches and green patches break it up at regular intervals.
Art installations appear along the boardwalk, and the shaded stretches keep the path cool even on hot afternoons. Cycling lanes run through the area, and the site has a basketball court, a volleyball court and a tennis court.
Wildlife and views from the viewpoint
A viewpoint over the estuary is the spot for watching birds. Herons, curlews and cormorants are among the species you can see from it.
Because the promenade faces west, it is well placed for watching the sun go down over the water. Many visitors time their walk for this.
Food and evenings
The far end of the walkway has a cluster of seafood restaurants. Along the rest of the route you will find eateries, bars and music venues, along with food stalls and vendors selling local goods.
A path leads on to Guayarte, a spot that combines gastronomy and urban art. Dance and music performances sometimes take place on the promenade on weekends. Evening is the time to come if you want to combine the walk, the view and a meal.
Nearby on foot
The boardwalk is the gateway to Urdesa, a popular restaurant and bar district reached on foot from 9 de Octubre Avenue. Other places in the area include La Bota Theater, Rodolfo Baquerizo Plaza and Paseo de los Escritores.
Malecón 2000, the larger riverside promenade, sits at the opposite end of 9 de Octubre Avenue. Malecón del Salado is the quieter of the two.
Facilities and getting there
The site has swings, playgrounds, a public restroom and a barbecue grill. It is listed as good for children, and dogs are allowed. The entrance and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
Parking costs $1.50 per hour. Paid, guarded lots are available. Trash cans are placed along the walk, though some are full at times, and some resting areas need upkeep.
FAQ
How much is parking at Malecón del Salado?
Parking costs $1.50 per hour. Paid, guarded parking is also available.
Is Malecón del Salado good for children?
Yes. The promenade has swings and playgrounds, and it is listed as good for kids.
Is the promenade wheelchair accessible?
The entrance and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are allowed on the promenade.
