Name and Location

The Salinas Lighthouse, also known as "El Faro" among locals and visitors, is located in Salinas, Santa Elena Province, Ecuador. Its address is R272+3VP (plus code), Vía Sin Nombre, Salinas, with coordinates latitude -2.1869283 and longitude -80.9975438.

2. Construction and History

The lighthouse was built in the early- to mid-20th century, although the exact year of construction is not documented. Its original purpose was to aid navigation for vessels approaching Salinas Bay and the Santa Elena Peninsula. The lighthouse has likely been automated, with manual keepers phased out decades ago.

3. Architecture and Materials

The tower is cylindrical in form, tapered, with a gallery and lantern. It is believed to be constructed from reinforced concrete, common for coastal lighthouses in Ecuador during 1920-1960. The exterior finish is painted white with a contrasting stripe or band, currently featuring a solid white scheme.

4. Light and Navigation

The light characteristic is unknown, although it is speculated to be either fixed or flashing white. The range is also uncertain, but likely under 10 nautical miles (for harbor entrance lights).

5. Accessibility and Visiting

The grounds are open to the public at all hours, with no entrance fee. However, the tower interior is closed to visitors. The lighthouse can be accessed via a short walk from the Malecón boardwalk or Vía Sin Nombre off Avenida Primera.

6. Notable Views and Landscape

Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific shoreline, Salinas Bay, and downtown Salinas. Photography is popular at sunrise and sunset, with no restrictions posted. Nearby facilities include a seaside promenade with cafés and benches, as well as public restrooms within 200 meters.

7. Anecdotes and Folklore

Local fishermen claim that the lamp still "guides" small skiffs on foggy mornings, while wedding photo and quinceañera gatherings are occasionally staged on the base platform.

8. Technical and Operational Details

The lighthouse is presumed to be automated, with a height of approximately 8-10 meters above its base. The Dirección de Hidrografía de la Armada del Ecuador is likely responsible for its management.

9. Further Information

For further information, please visit the OpenStreetMap entry (https://www.openstreetmap.org/way/104070865), the Salinas municipal tourism office, or consult Ecuadorian Hydrographic Service publications.