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Tortuga Bay – Galapagos Islands
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April 8, 2021Tortuga Bay is a Galapagos Islands visitor site located on Santa Cruz Island, to the south side. This lovely beach is so named for its black sea turtles which nest here. The beach at Tortuga Bay Galapagos is a long, fabulous stretch of white sand. This is a stunning place to spend at least an afternoon, if not an entire day, or more during your Galapagos visit, ang Tortuga Bay Galapagos tours are highly recommended. Here we will look at everything you need to know about Tortuga Bay including what to do there, how to get there, the best time to visit, wildlife at Tortuga Bay and our Insider recommendations for your visit.
Things to Do in Tortuga Bay
Tortuga Bay is an excellent spot to kick back and enjoy the usual types of beach activities, but surrounded by the fascinating Galapagos wildlife. It is a good spot to relax and sun bathe, or alternatively to swim, snorkel or take a walk. It is important to note that you cannot swim directly from the main beach at Tortuga Bay – this is forbidden due to the strong currents, but you can do so at the nearby cove, which is more sheltered. You can also rent kayaks here.
Birdwatching is another popular pursuit at Tortuga Bay. This is because there are an interesting array of bird residing here. There are pelicans and finches, and in the salt lagoon that backs onto the mangroves there are sometimes flamingos too.
Tortuga Bay is accessed via a dry landing.
How to visit Tortuga Bay Beach
Getting to Tortuga Bay is possible by a variety of means. Some Galapagos Cruises include Tortuga Bay on their itineraries. Alternatively, you could walk to Tortuga Bay from Puerto Ayora, which takes about an hour. First you walk to the trail from the main water taxi dock. The whole walk will take about an hour. Once you get to the trail, this is approximately 1.5 miles (2.5 kilometers) long. The walk will take between 30 to 45 minutes depending on the pace you like to take. If you like walking, the trail itself may be very pleasant with opportunities to spot warblers, finches and mockingbirds along the way, or maybe a lava lizard scuttling across the path in front of you. If you do not fancy the walk, another option is to get a water taxi from Puerto Ayora, which costs around $10.
Best time to go to Tortuga Bay
When to go depends on the weather you like. Between December and May the weather is warmer, but you may expect some rain showers in the afternoon at times. From June to November, the temperatures are cooler, and it can be a bit cloudy, but temperatures may be more tolerable. However, any time of year can be good to go to Tortuga Bay, as it is usually warm.
The wildlife is much the same all year around.
In terms of timings, the beach is not open at all hours of the day or night. You have to sign in when you get there, and this visitor site is open from 6am to 6pm.
Wildlife in Tortuga Bay
Tortuga Bay is popular for a visit, not just because it is a stunning beach but also because it is home to a wide range of Galapagos Islands wildlife species. There are marine iguanas here, as well as the brightly colored Sally Lightfoot crab. Brown pelicans can also be found here, and sea turtles nest in the white sand on the beach. Flamingos can be seen at times in the lagoon which sits behind the beach. You may also spy a few blue footed boobies. The vegetation in the area is also interesting. You’ll see Palo Santo trees, cacti and salt bushes, among others.
If you snorkel you may get to see a variety of colorful tropical fish, as well as white tip reef sharks, and if you are very lucky, maybe a tiger shark.
Insider Recommendations for your tour at Tortuga Bay
Please be sure to note that not all Galapagos cruises visit Tortuga Bay, certain cruises that visit this important site are the Endemic Galapagos yacht, the Natural Paradise cruise among other luxurious yachts. Even if your cruise stops at Santa Cruz Island, you should not assume that you will be visiting this site. If you want to be sure that you will get to visit this place, please double check the cruise itinerary and also make sure that you confirm with us that your cruise will visit Tortuga Bay. One other useful hint is that it is possible to purchase water and some snacks at the building where you sign in to Tortuga Bay. Don’t forget your towel, sunscreen and a hat!
Contact us to find out more about Tortuga Bay or to find out if it will be included on a cruise you are considering. We can also help you find your ideal Galapagos Islands trip – get in touch to find out more!
