Making the most of Sua Atacames
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
As cruise ships are not able to dock here you will be tendered ashore.
Nice small quiet beach resort set in a beautiful bay, located just 10 minutes southwest from Atacames. Súa is also an important fishing village with several seabirds flying after fishing boats.
Getting around
Cabs are a very popular way to move around in big cities. In a general way, the service is good, cars are new and drivers are pleased to help tourists. The cost depends on the taximeter, but an average ride will be between USD 1.50 to USD 2. At night will be hard to find a taxi driver using the taximeter, even though it's illegal, but they would not charge more than USD 2 to USD 3. If you come from or go to the airport, they will charge some extra money. (Between USD 3 to USD 5).
Nearby places
Atacames is a party town, a place to let your hair down. At busy times of year, particularly for the rainy season holidays, the town heaves with revelers going to the early hours.
Money
Ecuador has its own coins. These are exactly the same size and weight as American coins, and both are accepted. U.S. dollar coins are widely used, and preferred to $1 bills. American bills are used for higher values, Ecuador does not print any itself.
Staying connected
Spanish spoken.
There are hundreds of "coffee-nets" in the commercial and touristic areas that offer net2phone, email, internet at very reasonable prices.
Opening Hours and
Most shops are open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm. Many occupy the family home and, outside the biggest cities, open every day for as long as there is someone to staff it.