7 Best Beaches in the Galapagos Islands

The turquoise water and long stretch of white sand make Playa Brava a postcard-worthy beach destination, but strong waves and a consistent current have resulted in a prohibition on swimming at the beach. Surfers enjoy catching the breaks and visitors relax on the powdery sands overlooking the clear lagoon.

The calm and protected lagoon makes swimming and snorkeling accessible, while protecting tropical fish, marine iguanas, and even baby sharks. Whether looking for an active way to enjoy the beach or interested in a quieter escape to the island coastline, Playa Brava is a great getaway on Santa Cruz Island.

Best for: Long stretches of soft sands and clear water for surfing

Connected to Playa Brava on the same stretch of Tortuga Bay stands Playa Mansa, where the calmer, colorful waters offer a great place for swimming. The pleasant temperatures give way to great snorkeling, where active marine life reveals blacktip reef sharks, rays, and sea turtles often grazing on the seagrass.

Above the water, blue-footed boobies waddle around the sands and pelicans swoop down to catch their next meal. While part of the same area on Santa Cruz, Playa Mansa can feel like a completely different Galapagos beach.

Best for: A more relaxed experience with a view of wildlife and snorkeling in calm waters

An underrated coastal haven, Puerto Chino is a doorway into the unexpected. Found on San Cristóbal, the pristine white sands may glint in the sunlight against the sporadic black volcanic rocks.

With the colors of the landscape set against the Pacific, the turquoise water practically glows. The small cliff off the beach can give you a breathtaking panorama of the greater bay and the opportunity to see marine iguanas warming in the light or sea lions resting on the hot sand.

Best for: Enjoying immersive nature and surprising sands

Volcanic rock and a high concentration of iron are not often the way to describe a pristine beach but the elements when exposed to oxygen have turned the cliffs and soil of Rabida Island a striking rusty color along the famous Red Sand Beach.

More than just colorful, the sands give way to crystalline water for enticing snorkeling excursions during which you can view sea turtles, rays, and white-tip reef sharks. On land, you may find lingering blue-footed gannets or speedy finches demonstrating the allure of natural diversity around the island and greater Galapagos.

Best for: Amazing snorkeling expeditions to views of surprising marine life

Playa el Manglecito is completely unspoiled. Serene and captivating, the clear azure water offers great visibility when snorkeling, and active marine birds around the edges of the white sand offer a thrilling view of untouched nature.

As one of the few Galapagos beaches that allow camping, it is easy to explore at your pace as you enjoy the calm water, explore the mangroves, or learn about local ecology from a licensed guide.

Best for: Remote ambiance with colorful water and white sands

Tidal pools and a naturally remote location make El Garrapatero an exciting beach to visit. Small sharks and rays linger off the coast and are often viewed during a snorkeling excursion, while flamingos perch in the lagoon, their pink plumage reflected in the quiet water.

The white-sand beach shines in the sunlight and kayak rentals give you access to fantastic scenery when looking back at the shoreline over the turquoise water. El Garrapatero is a thrilling but accessible adventure on Santa Cruz Island.

Best for: Ecological diversity and exploring the natural treasures of Galapagos mangroves and beach

Unlike many tropical beaches around the Galapagos where the remote ambiance can make the island feel uninhabited, Gardner Bay on Espanola is a deserted-island experience. Lush palm trees and white sands resemble an oasis away from modern life, with the beauty of the area focused on the sand, water, and sun.

Snorkeling reveals manta rays and parrotfish, sea lions and sea turtles. Find circling albatrosses and curious blue-footed boobies, or witness marine iguana perched on a rock, basking in the sunlight.

Best for: Wildlife and snorkeling for a thrilling look at the desert wilderness of the Galapagos beaches

The Galapagos Islands are famous for their untouched wilderness and unique wildlife. When visiting, it is easy to explore the gorgeous landscapes that result in unimaginable beaches supporting fearless animals, from marine iguanas to swift finches.

Whether visiting for the natural landscapes or stunning marine life, you can explore with more information found in our Galapagos Islands and Ecuador travel guide or discover inspiration for how you wish to experience the beaches and wildlife with our Galapagos Islands vacations and tours.