Americas · Ecuador

Things to do in Santo Domingo de los Colorados

Santo Domingo de los Colorados is one of Americas's best places for beach trips. Turquoise water, lazy lunches and a coastline made for swimming. Here's how we'd actually spend the time — what to book, what to skip, and the small choices that make the difference.

  1. 01

    Spend a full morning on the best-rated beach — get there before 10

  2. 02

    Book one boat trip or snorkel tour, even if you don't normally

  3. 03

    Find the beach club locals actually go to (not the one in the brochure)

  4. 04

    Eat seafood at a place with paper tablecloths and no English menu

  5. 05

    Stay out for sunset at least once with a drink in hand

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Best time to visit Santo Domingo de los Colorados

Plan

A 5-day Santo Domingo de los Colorados itinerary

Hotels from$80 / night
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Santo Domingo de los Colorados FAQs

What are the must-do things in Santo Domingo de los Colorados?
In Santo Domingo de los Colorados, lean into what the place is famous for — beach experiences first, then a slower day to find the neighbourhoods most visitors miss. Build the trip around one big day and one easy day.
How many days do you need in Santo Domingo de los Colorados?
Three days is enough to see the headlines, five days is the sweet spot, and seven lets you add a day trip or a slow morning without rushing. See our 3-, 5- and 7-day itineraries for Santo Domingo de los Colorados.
Is Santo Domingo de los Colorados expensive?
Hotels in Santo Domingo de los Colorados start from around $80/night on Booking.com. Eating and getting around is reasonable if you avoid the most touristy streets — locals' favourites are usually a third the price and twice the food.
What's the best area to stay in Santo Domingo de los Colorados?
Stay close to where you'll actually spend time — a central neighbourhood saves an hour a day. We pick the area based on what kind of beach trip you're after; the full Santo Domingo de los Colorados guide breaks it down.
Is Santo Domingo de los Colorados worth visiting?
Yes — Santo Domingo de los Colorados is one of Americas's best places for beach trips. Turquoise water, lazy lunches and a coastline made for swimming.