Esmeraldas is a coastal city, capital of the Esmeraldas province, located on the Pacific coast of Ecuador. Esmeraldas has an international seaport and a small airport. Las Palmas is the closest beach to Esmeraldas, but Atacames and Sua beaches receive most tourists. It is also home to the majority of Afro-Ecuadorians, the base of their traditional music is made up of rhythmic drumming and the distinctive marimba, accompanied by singers and a typical dance. About the altitude, Esmeraldas has an elevation of 49 feet (15 meters) above sea level.
Climate is mostly hot and humid, sunny days, with some rains in the afternoon or at night. The best time to visit is January and February — in addition, to be the driest months.
Local holidays are the Independence of Esmeraldas on August 5 and the Provincialization of Esmeraldas on November 21.
