Guayaquil's closest beach getaway: Officially named General Villamil, the town is almost universally known as "Playas." It is the nearest major beach resort to Guayaquil, making it the most popular and accessible seaside destination for the metropolis's residents.
A bustling weekend and holiday destination: On weekends, the town is a bustling resort as thousands of "Guayaquileños" begin arriving for the weekend, filling its boardwalk, restaurants, and beaches.
One of Ecuador's largest artisanal fishing ports: Beyond tourism, Playas has a massive artisanal fishing fleet. Its beachfront is a dynamic scene of fishermen launching their boats through the surf and selling fresh catches directly on the sand.
Famous for its fresh seafood: As a direct result of its fishing industry, Playas is renowned for its fresh and affordable seafood. The beachfront is lined with hundreds of small restaurants and cabanas serving classic coastal dishes.
A uniquely dry coastal climate: Unlike the more tropical and lush coast further north, the Santa Elena Peninsula where Playas is located has a drier, more desert-like climate with more consistent sunshine throughout the year.
Gateway to nearby surf spots: While the main beach has gentle waves, Playas is the hub for reaching nearby surf destinations like Engabao and El Pelado, which are just a short drive away.