An expat talks about living in the small fishing village of San Jacinto in Ecuador's Manabi province. With its perfect climate and low cost of living, San Jacinto might be the perfect place for those looking for a quiet beach town.
The tranquil and economical lifestyle on the beach in San Jacinto, small fishing village community and easy access (45 minute drive South) to Manta airport.
The availability of fresh seafood, vegetables and fruits delivered to your door or purchased at the market are very reasonable, a household of two adults averages $200 per month for groceries. Rental properties range from $450 up based on location and size. You can purchase a beachfront home for under $200K. or off the beach from $50K. and up. Restaurants offer daily "almuerzo" specials for $3, dinner starts at $4 and up. Utilities are inexpensive, propane gas $1.75 refill, water for the cisterna $15, large jugs of bottled water $1.50, Wifi basic plan $25, electricity varies based on use of AC during the hot season (January - April), no AC. $45 - with AC, $100 and up. Transportation via bus starts at .50 cents and goes up based on destination. Taxi varies based on destination, fare starts at $2.
I'm not aware of any clubs, there are several social events held within the expat community and village fiestas open to all members of the community.
All levels of education are available in the area. A new Tech school is being inaugurated this year, offering several courses within numerous trades.
Local Tiendas sell almost everything that you need for your pantry. Additionally, there are markets and vegetable/fruit trucks soliciting door to door. The local fishermen sell their fresh catch daily and deliver upon request. There is a large market on Sunday in Charapoto, 10 minutes away via bus or taxi.
Bus and taxi plus private drivers, safe and reliable.
Just about perfect most of the year; May through November the average day time temperature is 78 degrees, low 60s. at night. The Pacific Ocean supplies a delightful breeze on most days and sunshine. January through April, hottest time of the year; temperature can reach upper 80s during the day and low 70s at night, rain normally occurs overnight and occasionally throughout the day.
Seafood is the main course here on the coast of Manabi, there are other restaurants serving grilled pork, chicken, steak with sides of rice, salad and plantains. Chinese cuisine is available as well. There is one pub located in San Jacinto and three in the next village located ten minutes away via bus/taxi or a 25 minute walk on the beach.
There is a local clinic with a doctor who is on call 24 X 7. The nearest hospital is located in Bahia, 30 minutes North. Additional hospitals are located in Manta or Portoviejo, 45 minutes via car.
Expats interested in expat health insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
The beaches are the main attraction in this area. You can participate in a friendly game of soccer, beach comb for shells, go fishing, paragliding or relax in a hammock on the beach.
You can stay for 90 days with a valid passport (minimum 6 month validity from the expiration date). I refer everyone to attorney Floridalva Zambrano, Portoviejo office, for Visa/Residency information and assistance. The immigration laws change frequently.
Empty vacation homes are targeted for petty theft, it's wise to have a security system installed or a house sitter if you will not be occupying your home for an extended period of time.
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