Garrapatero Cove and beach, located on the eastern side of Santa Cruz Island, are considered to have the finest sand in all Galapagos! Enjoy activities like birdwatching, swimming, and kayaking. Or take a short trip on a tandem; relax on the beach; or walk to a brackish lagoon—home to stilts, plovers, pintails, and flamingos.
Las Grietas are a fascinating rock formation of two cliffs separated by an ocean water chasm. They are found along a walkway from the hotel through a mangrove and opuntia cactus-filled landscape, passing by old salt mines. The Grietas is a lovely place for swimming and snorkeling since the water here is stunningly clear and calm. That attracts numerous marine species and offers a great place to cool off on a hot day.
Explore the otherworldly landscapes formed by volcanic activity, some as recent as 100 years ago. Hikes in Galapagos vary from island to island and give visitors a chance to learn first-hand about geology. And, of course, to get selfie distance away from fearless iconic island wildlife.
Our innovative island-hopping concept allows you to discover the best of the two most beautiful islands in the Galapagos: Santa Cruz and Isabela. By staying at the Finch Bay Galapagos hotel and our partner, Scalesia Lodge. On each island, stay at the best hotels with the most comfortable accommodations, including a stunning inter-island flight and waking up ready for new inspiring views and adventures. This trip perfectly illustrates the archipelago’s incredible diversity of flora and fauna.
Our kayaking program takes place in Divine Bay, a beautiful location with protected waters that make for a pleasant trip. We leave when the tide is high from Playa de Los Alemanes (German Beach), located by Finch Bay – one of the advantages of staying at the only beach-front hotel in Santa Cruz! Paddling around the waters of the Marine Reserve is a great way to get some exercise and spot unique endemic wildlife. Birds rest on the cliffs that form the edges of the islands. Sea lions and their pups lie meters away on the beaches.
Giant tortoise reserve located in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. The area is teeming with life: woodpeckers, mockingbirds, flycatchers, ducks, and gallinules make this an exciting morning visit. The Galapagos giant tortoise is the largest living tortoise species, weighing up to 250 kg (550 lb). These gentle giants can be seen grazing on the surrounding vegetation, wallowing in muddy banks, or in a small red-colored pond (impressively colored by surface red pondweeds).
Wildlife observation is the main reason why so many people choose to visit the archipelago. Nowhere else can we observe animals so closely and calmly. Galapagos’ iconic wildlife provides a fantastic opportunity to see their daily lives. As we journey through the islands’ haunting volcanic landscapes, we find inspiration in the unique endemic species that have evolved in unexpected ways. And, from your base at the hotel, you can encounter many of the Galapagos’ BIG15.
Pristine waters, lush flora and fauna, and unique wild and marine life make the Galapagos Islands one of the best snorkeling spots in the world. Beginners and experienced snorkelers will quickly fall in love with snorkeling in Galapagos. The Marine Reserve showcases numerous unusual colored fish species, enormous sea turtles, and harmless sharks. And sharing the water with playful sea lions is, of course, an unforgettable experience.
This stunning white sand beach is considered by many to be the most beautiful in the Galapagos archipelago. The beach is reached via a marked and cobblestoned two-kilometer path, open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM. There is excellent birdwatching along the way, with plenty of Darwin’s finches and other sea birds. And for active visitors, it is an ideal place to kayak and snorkel! Beyond the immediate stretch of the beach, there is a calmer spot, perfect for swimming, splashing around, tanning, and relaxing in the shade of the surrounding mangrove trees.
The Galapagos Islands are ranked among the world’s top 5 best SCUBA diving experiences. We offer our guests the best when it comes to discovering the Galapagos. Additionally, we provide numerous diving packages that depart right here from the one-and-only beachfront property on the island! In terms of the aquatic life that divers can see and swim around them, includes sea turtles, Galapagos sharks, hammerheads, rays, and much more!
Visit one of the island’s lava tunnels, significant geological formations that take us back in time and remind us of the island’s volcanic origins!
To deepen and broaden your knowledge, make your way to the Galapagos National Park Service headquarters and the recently renovated Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora. You’ll find a fascinating interpretation center and can wander through the tortoise-rearing program facilities. Here, we observe giant tortoises and learn how they vary from island to island. We also explore some volcanic terrain that hugs the coastline and forms the foundation for many unique wildlife habitats while learning about many endemic and native species in the Galapagos.
Relax
Take it easy, rest on a pool lounger or a hammock, and dig your bare toes into the sand steps away from your room. Sip a cocktail at the bar, savor fine dining at our renowned restaurant, end the day with a massage and then watch as the stars illuminate the night sky with its Equatorial constellations.
STROLL THE STREETS
Explore the town of Puerto Ayora. There is something to entertain everyone with its small cafes, boutiques, and nightclubs. Check out everyday life for locals at the farmer’s market on Saturdays or visit the fisherman’s wharf any day of the week.
Bond through Family Travel
The Galapagos Islands and Finch Bay present an enviable stage for a family to travel, have fun, and learn together. There’s something for everyone, regardless of age, unique experiences to be shared: from swimming with sea lions to understanding geology, from an afternoon by the pool to encounters with giant tortoises.
Transportation from the Puerto Ayora dock
Excursions with certified Naturalist Guide
Guided snorkeling activities
Lunch onboard
Use of towels
Taxes
