It is the newest canton in the Manabí Province, having been founded on November 16, 1999, when it was separated from Sucre Canton as a result of citizen procedures.

Its capital is the urban parish of San Vicente, while Canoa is the only officially recognized rural parish.

Canoa is well known by tourists and foreigners for its good conditions for surfing and paragliding.

Another oceanside community, Boca de Briceño, also lies within the canton.

The canton's economy relies on agriculture, livestock, shrimp farming, and tourism.