I have been living in Salinas for over 2 years now. The weather is really warm Dec-April and quite comfortable year-round. Actually, I find it a little chilly right now, we are experiencing a little "cold spell" and everyone has their sweatshirts on. Salinas is/was the resort town for all the wealthy Guayaquil folks who own second homes (vacation homes) here. Some people when they come down find that Salinas is "not as cheap" as they have researched.... Bargains can always be found, though! For example, instead of buying your food in the supermarkets, go to the fresh outdoor markets in Salinas or neighboring town of La Libertad. I just purchased 25 oranges for $1 (yes, you read correctly: one dollar for twenty-five oranges!!)
As for the "southern" coast, Salinas is one of the most developed towns, or should I call it a city. We have fire, police, hospitals/clinics, and even an american-style Mall with movie theater and food court. There is a Casino in the 5-star Barceló hotel and there are plenty of restaurants along the boardwalk. There is a Yacht Club and Salinas has an airport which they will hopefully open up soon to the public for national and international flights. The Chipipe beach is by far the better one in Salinas, although located in a more residential area.
High season (dec-april) is packed as the weather is warm - hot, actually, and full days of sun. Off season can be a little "slow" and alot of places close down. Public transportation is plentiful: buses, taxis, and private drivers. Plenty of places to stay when you come down, hotels/hostals/bed-breakfasts, something for everyone at different price ranges. Same thing goes for apartment rentals and real estate in general. Salinas is a little over 2 hours by bus from Guayaquil and buses there are safe and cost $3.50. Private transportation from GYE to Salinas can be made with a private driver for aprox $40.
I am a single female living here, and I feel safe. Of course, I use any precaution as I would in any other areas. There are places here that I would not walk alone in at night, for example. There has been incidents of crime, but the police have increased their presence dramatically as well as the rounds that they do; huge difference that made. Only a couple of drawbacks: one, the internet service out this way is not as good/reliable as it is in larger cities. (it exists, but, be patient!). Also, if you do not know Spanish, you might get a little frustrated as most ecuaodorians here in Salinas do not speak any English, as they do in the larger cities. However, they are a lovely people and are very patient with you!!
Hope this synopsis helps ~ feel free to email me if you have more specific details on Salinas (or anything else for that matter!!)
Good luck!!!
