19 Best Galapagos Beaches: Best Islands & Places To Swim
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Are you looking for the best Galapagos beaches when visiting the Islands?
The Galapagos Islands are the perfect destination for beach lovers looking to explore the wonders of the world.
This bucket-list-worthy destination is located 620 miles east of Ecuador. With its unique ecosystem and stunningly beautiful shorelines, the archipelago is home to some of the most unusual beaches, from green sand to black sand to red to black lava.
On Galapagos beaches, you’ll share your beach experience with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.
Our two favorite hotels in the Galapagos:
- Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel on Santa Cruz Island 4.5 out of 5. Rooms from $650 USD (approx.)
- Iguana Crossing on Isabela Island 4.5 out of 5. Rooms from $300 USD (approx.)
19 Best Galapagos Beaches & Islands
The Galapagos Islands have the best beaches because they are pristine, secluded, and home to unique wildlife that can be found nowhere else in the world.
So here we go. Here are our picks of the best beaches in the Galapagos.
1. Tortuga Bay Beach, Santa Cruz Island
Tortuga Bay on Santa Cruz Island is a favorite Galapagos beach for many because of its pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters. Tortuga Bay Beach is the perfect place to relax and take in stunningly beautiful surroundings, snorkel with Galapagos wildlife or explore the mangroves.
Highlight: Turtle nesting season (it’s in the name!), from January to May – is a fantastic time to visit, although beach access may be limited. Please check ahead before making plans.
During turtle nesting season, beach access may be limited.
How to get there: This pristine beach can be reached by water taxi from Puerto Ayora or a popular hiking trail, about a 30-minute walk from central Puerto Ayora, the most populous town in the Galapagos.
2. Playa de los Alemanes, Puerto Ayora
Offering the best of both worlds, Playa de los Alemanes is the perfect destination for beachgoers looking to explore the islands’ natural wonders. With its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife, it’s the ideal place to soak up the sun and take in the breathtaking beauty of the Galapagos.
What to expect: A small beach with soft golden sand, but the ocean is calm here. There are no facilities. You don’t need a guide and it isn’t very crowded.
3. El Garrapatero, Santa Cruz Island
El Garrapatero beach is located about 12 miles (20 km) northeast of Puerto Ayora, is almost two miles (3.1 km) long and is part of the National Park.
A great destination for active beachgoers looking for a lively atmosphere with golden sand beaches lined by Manzanillo trees and mangroves. With its calm waters and stunningly beautiful shorelines, the beach offers plenty of activities, such as swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling in the nearby coves.
How to get there: Take a car from Puerto Ayora or a water taxi. Car transport takes about 30 minutes. Some tours stop at El Garrapatero beach.
What to expect: Sunbathing, kayaking, snorkeling, and picnicking. The waters of this beach are calm.
There is only one toilet and a little park ranger hut only which isn’t always occupied. There is no development here. It’s a beautiful spot with a white sand beach.
Hidden gems: Behind the beach sits a large lagoon where sea birds, including pink flamingos, nest.
4. La Loberia, San Cristobal Island
A must-see for the adventurous traveler, La Loberia beach is the perfect spot to explore the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.
Here you can take a dip in the crystal-clear calm waters.
What to expect: Great for snorkeling next to a sea lion and watching many sea turtles and tropical fish swim by.
5. Playa Mann, San Cristobal Island
Located on the north coast of the Island, Playa Mann is one of our favorite Galapagos beaches on our list. The beach offers stunningly pristine shorelines with bright white sand and the opportunity to snorkel and kayak along the rugged coastline.
What to expect: This beach is one of the few beaches with restaurants and bathrooms nearby.
6. Cerro Brujo, San Cristobal Island
Located on the island’s western side, Cerro Brujo is the perfect spot for the intrepid traveler looking to explore the unique volcanic landscapes of the Galapagos. It’s considered one of the prettiest beaches.
The beach has bright white sand and crystal clear blue water.
Access: This beach is secluded. It is quiet, possibly because the only access to the beach is via boat. If you want to get away from crowds, this is a good spot.
What to expect: The water is so clear you can see fish swimming at the shoreline.
Here you can swim and snorkel the clear waters and observe the marine life such as rays, sea stars, and octopuses.
7. Cormorant Point, Floreana Island
Cormorant Point is on the northern tip of Floreana. The sand on this beach is an unusual olive-green color from the much higher-than-usual concentration of olivine crystals in the sand.
Access: You’ll land on a beach between two volcanic cones when you arrive by boat, then you’ll hike to both beaches. The hike is only about a mile.
The other beach here is made up of coral sand, making it a brilliant white.
What to expect: The large lagoon is favored by flamingos. Their pink color makes a beautiful contrast with the green sand. This site is great for snorkeling, and you’ll spot rays in the shallow water.
A one-mile hike on the island takes you to higher ground and provides great views over the lagoon and takes you to both beaches on either side of the Point.
8. Punta Pitt, San Cristobal Island
This Galapagos beach is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches and is located on the far eastern edge of San Cristobal Island. The Punta Pitt beach is the perfect spot to relax and take in the stunningly beautiful surroundings.
Here you can observe the unique wildlife such as the red-footed boobies, frigate birds, and shorebirds as they soar over the tranquil waters.
What to expect: This is a great spot to snorkel. There is hiking on this beach as well with a climb up a hill where the view is worth expending the energy.
Punta Pitt or Pitt Beach is the only place where you can observe the three species of boobies and the two species of frigates nesting in the same area.
9. Las Bachas Beach, Santa Cruz Island
Las Bachas Beach on Santa Cruz Island is one of the most stunning beaches in the Galapagos, located on the north shore of Santa Crux Island.
It’s a small beach, only about a half mile long. But the sands are white, and the water is turquoise blue. Puerto Ayora is located about 1.5 miles (2.5 km) from Las Bachas Beach.
Best for snorkeling and surfing, and other water sports, and for enjoying the fantastic marine life and white sand beach. This beach has endemic vegetation and red and black mangroves. Great beach for wildlife spottings.
Access: You have to access this beach by tour boat or cruise ship.
For a calmer swim, take the short walk down the beach towards the tranquil lagoon at Playa Mansa.
10. Puerto Villamil Beach or Playa Isabela, Isabela island
Playa Puerto Villamil, the most stunning Galapagos beach, is located on the eastern side of the remote and wild Isabela Island in the tiny port town of Puerto Villmil.
Puerto Villamil beach, or Playa Isabela, is a gorgeous 2.5 miles (4 km) stretch that runs alongside the entire seaside of this cute little town. It’s one of the longest stretches of beach in the Galapagos.
Isabel is home to about 2,000 residents, not including the pink flamingos and the marine iguanas.
Once at the beach, visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the turquoise waters and the unique wildlife. With the abundance of sea turtles and marine iguanas, the beach is perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
Visitors should also explore the nearby mangrove lagoons, which offer a great opportunity to observe the diverse birdlife.
Why it stands out: Playa Puerto is one of the most secluded beaches of the Galapagos Islands. It boasts a wide white sand beach shaded by a dry tropical forest and coconut palms.
If you want to get away from people, this beach has a remote location, making it less popular.
What to expect: This beach is within close proximity to hotels and restaurants. Great for swimming, sunbathing, and just relaxing with wildlife. You’ll be sharing the beach with locals, like marine iguanas and many species of birds, including lava herons.
Good to know: In the southeast part of the island is a lava channel where you can view and swim with whitetip sharks if you dare.
This beach is one of our favorites and would make it onto a top five list.
11. Playa de Los Perros, Santa Cruz Island
The Playa de los Perros beach is the perfect spot for the traveler looking to explore the unique wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.
Located in the heart of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, the picturesque beach located on the south coast of San Cristobal Island, Playa de los Perros is the perfect spot for beachgoers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the nearby towns and enjoy the tranquility of the island.
Access: To reach the site, it’s necessary to travel about 8 minutes by boat from Puerto Ayora. When you arrive, take the path that leads to Playa de Los Perros. A slight slope at the start of the trail, where a small ladder will facilitate entry; the entire route consists of rock and dirt and is easily accessible. A park ranger watches over the site daily.
What to expect: Upon entering the canal, you will see blue-footed boobies, pelicans, frigatebirds, and Brown Noddies.
On the path along the beach and leading to the pool of reef sharks (no swimming permitter here), you’ll see many sally lightfoot crabs. On the path to Playa de los Perros, finches will accompany you, and finally, at the beach, you will find marine iguanas, sea lions, sally lightfoot, and hermit crabs.
12. Puerto Chino, San Cristobal Island
Puerto Chino, located on the island of San Cristobal in the Galapagos Islands, is one of the best beaches in the area. With its crystal-clear waters and stunning landscape, it’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to explore the unique nature of the islands.
Here you can go swimming or snorkeling and observe diverse marine life like sea turtles, rays, sea horses, and octopuses. The beach also has a beautiful red sand shoreline with volcanic rocks that create an amazing backdrop for photography.
Access: You must go by boat or a 10-minute walking trail from the parking lot.
What to expect: One of the most secluded and beautiful beaches on San Cristobal Island. It’s located out of town on the east coast of San Cristobal. Good for surfing and for its beautiful mangroves. Sea lions and finches play here.
The water here tends to have more waves, so not ideal for snorkeling.
This small beach doesn’t get very crowded, so if you want some privacy away from crowds, this is a good one to add to your list.
13. Gardner Bay Beach, Espanola Island
Gardner Bay is located on the western side of Espanola Island. Gardner Bay is the perfect spot if you are looking to explore the unique volcanic landscapes of the Galapagos.
Here you can dip in the crystal-clear waters and observe the marine life such as rays, sea stars, and octopuses. CNN named Gardner Bay beach one of the best beaches in the world.
Access: Gardner Bay is only accessible via boat.
What to expect: Interaction with sea lions and spectacular views. Good for sunbathing and water activities like snorkeling, where you’ll see albatrosses, fish, and manta rays. Sea lions play on the shore.
Also a great place for viewing white-tipped reef sharks and tropical fish.
14. Las Grietas, Santa Cruz Island
Las Grietas, the iconic natural swimming pool located on the western coast of Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos, is an absolute must-visit destination for the traveler seeking to experience the unique landscapes of the islands.
In a remote location, it’s one of the most popular spots for snorkeling and swimming; Las Grietas features two canyons of crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush vegetation and iconic volcanic rocks. From the Grietas, visitors can observe abundant marine life, such as sea turtles, manta rays, and reef sharks.
Access: Take a water taxi from the main pier in Puerto Ayora to Angermayer Point. From there you go by foot to the top of the water hole, where a staircase takes you down. It’s easy to find. If the route isn’t obvious, ask someone!
What to expect: Popular here are snorkeling and swimming in the swimming hole surrounded by fractured lava rock. A highlight. No guide is required to visit this spot. Great photo opportunities. Not a typical beach but rather a swimming hole surrounded by high lava cliffs. Stunning to see in person.
Las Grietas means The Cracks, an earth fracture that formed the lava tower surrounding the swimming hole on each side.
15. Playa del Amor, Isabela Island
Playa del Amor is a beautiful beach located on Isabela Island. It’s one of the nicest beaches in the area, and you can go swimming or snorkeling in the clear waters and see marine life like rays, sea stars, and octopuses.
You can also observe the local wildlife, like the blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and sea lions, as they fly overhead.
Love Beach, or Lovers’ Beach, is unique because it’s made of pure coral.
What to expect: To the back of the beach is a non-access area that protects marine iguanas where they lay their eggs.
16. Playa Negra, Floreana Island
Playa Negra is on the island of Floreana, which is part of the Galapagos Islands. As the name implies, this beach is unique for its black sand beach. You can get there by taking a boat from the main island, which is close to the town of Puerto Velasco Ibarra.
It’s one of the best in the Galapagos, and you can go swimming or snorkeling in the clear waters and see lots of different marine life, like rays, sea stars, and octopuses. There are also lots of birds and sea lions that fly over the beach.
What to expect: Good for snorkeling with sea lions and penguins. Soft black sand beach with calm waters.
17. Playa El Manglecito, San Crisobal Island
Playa El Manglecito is located on the island of San Cristobal.
It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, and you can go swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. You can also explore the nearby mangrove lagoon and the diverse landscape of the island.
Access: The only way to arrive is via boat. Often on the Galapagos, fewer people tend to come when beach access is only via boat.
What to expect: It’s a secluded beach where you’ll find peace and quiet with white sand and crystal-clear water. Observe the local wildlife like blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, sea lions, and red-footed boobies as they soar over the beach.
18. Bartolomé Island Beach, Bartolomé Island
Bartolome Island beach is located in the eastern part of the Galapagos Islands, east of the Santiago Islands. The beach here is the perfect spot for experiencing the volcanic landscapes of the islands and to see a red sand beach.
Access: This is a popular spot. Most cruises and land tours offer to stop at Bartolome beach. Diving here is also a popular activity here.
What to expect: There are two crescent-moon-shaped beaches on Bartolome Island. Great Galapagos beaches for swimming or snorkeling.
Known for: Pinnacle Rocks and reddish sand beach. This red sand beach is like no other beach in the world. The striking scenery of the island also makes it worth visiting. Known for the natural beauty formed by volcanic eruptions. You’ll see formations caused by lava flow and spatter cones. Penguins and sea lions lounge on this beach, making it even more beautiful and special.
Wildlife is abundant here, with sea turtles, penguins, and sea lions. The calm waters make it a great place for snorkeling and swimming.
19. Red Sand Beach, Rábida Island, Galapagos National Park
Located south of Santiago Island, Rabida Island is part of the Galapagos National Park. It is made up of spatter-cone volcanic lava, making the sand maroon and the hills shades brown and red.
Access: The only way to access the island is to buy a cruise. You have to take a cruise to get to Rabida Island.
What to expect: It’s a small beach with a large sea lion colony. The rare geology of Rabida Island’s red sand beaches is special to see in person. You won’t see anything like this red beach anywhere. The red sand is stunning to walk on and makes for a great backdrop for photography.
Masked and blue-footed boobies nest on the cliffs above the red-sand beach while sea lions and iguanas lay around in nearby caves. Brown pelicans nest in vegetation just inland from the beach.
Not good for: Sunbathing, but great for hiking and discovering the Galapagos wildlife and rare volcanic landscapes.
Visiting Galapagos Islands: FAQs
Below are the most-asked-questions-answered section about the Galapagos Islands.
Which Galapagos Island has the best beaches?
San Cristobal Island is the most popular destination for beachgoers, offering the unique experience of snorkeling and exploring turquoise-colored coves.
Santa Cruz Island is the second most popular beach destination, offering the opportunity to explore the mangroves and take in the stunningly beautiful shorelines.
Tortuga Bay, on Santa Cruz Island, is the most popular beach to visit of the Galapagos beaches.
Can you swim in the Galapagos beaches?
Yes, you can swim in the Galapagos beaches, but some beaches may have restrictions due to the presence of protected wildlife, such as sea lions or marine iguanas. It’s important to follow the guidelines set by the Galapagos National Park to protect the fragile ecosystem of the islands.
The waters in the Galapagos Islands are incredibly clear and the temperature is just the right for a pleasant swimming experience.
Where should I stay on the Galapagos Islands?
Santa Cruz Island is the best island to stay on in the Galapagos. It is the most populated island with the largest selection of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions, making it the ideal destination for travelers exploring the islands.
Santa Cruz Island
Luxury Option: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel offers luxury and attention because of its 21-room size. Located right on the beach. Rooms from $650 USD per night (approx.)
Low Cost Option: Maytenus Galapagos. Rooms are clean and cozy. Some rooms offer a kitchenette which is great for families. Rooms from $198 USD per night (approx.)
lsabela Island
Luxury Option: Hotel Albemarle is a luxury hotel. It sits right on the beach and offers a restaurant and bar on-site. Rooms from $450 USD per night (approx.)
Lower Cost Option: Iguana Crossing offers great facilities including swimming pool and jacuzzi with consistently excellent customer service. Rooms from $300 USD per night (approx.)
When you go to the Galapagos Islands, you’ll most likely be out and about, taking advantage of activities like snorkeling and cruises, so keep that in mind when choosing a hotel. I covered this in-depth in the article below.
11 Best Galapagos Islands Resort and Lodges.
What Is the Best Month to Go to the Galapagos?
The months between December and May are considered the best time of year to visit the Galapagos Islands as the temperature is warmer.
This is the peak season for the islands, so you’ll be able to enjoy the best of what they have to offer. However, it will be more crowded at this time.
If snorkeling is your main priority when visiting the Galapagos beaches, we recommend the months of July through December when chances to see more marine life are higher.
Wrap-Up: Best Galapagos Beaches
The Galapagos Islands are the perfect destination for beach lovers looking to explore the unique and stunning nature of the islands.
From the red sand beaches at Rábida Island and Puerto Chino to the crystal-clear waters at Playa de los Perros or Bartolomé Island Beach, there’s something special about each one that makes it stand out from other beaches around the world.
Whether you’re a fan of snorkeling, surfing, wildlife spotting or just relaxing on the shoreline with your toes in the water – these 19 best Galapagos Beaches have something for everyone! So pack your bags and get ready to experience some of the most beautiful beaches in all of South America.
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