Top 7 Bay Tour Highlights in Santa Cruz

Enjoy unspoiled beaches, secluded coves, and romantic islets on a tour of the coastal highlights of Santa Cruz Island, in the Galápagos.

Rebecca Braak | Updated: August 3, 2026 | Time to read: 7 min

Venture deep into the Galápagos on a bay tour Santa Cruz to some highlights and less-visited gems on this enchanted Galápagos island. This is one of the most popular of the Galápagos 13 main islands and includes highlights like Los Gemelos (Twin Craters) and the Charles Darwin Research Center, a conservation center focusing on species like the iconic giant tortoise. 

However, there are many less-visited and even hidden gems on this island that most travelers never get to experience. This guide focuses on the “secret” highlights along Santa Cruz’s stunning coast.

1. Playa de los Perros (Dog beach)

Any bay tour of Santa Cruz in the Galápagos should include a stop at this remote and ruggedly beautiful stretch of coast. Located on the island’s south, near the main town of Puerto Ayora, it’s only accessible by boat or water taxi. Playa de Los Perros (which translates to “Beach of the Dogs”) earned its name due to the numerous dog crabs that live around its volcanic terrain.

This is a small, uncrowded beach ideal for wildlife lovers, as you can spot plenty of sunbathing iguanas and Sally Lightfoot crabs scurrying about. On the way back to the boat, tours typically pass through Canal del Amor (Canal of Love), a romantic inlet of turquoise waters hemmed in by towering volcanic cliffs.

TIP: Wear durable sandals or hiking shoes as a trip here requires walking on lava rocks.

2. Punta Caamaño Islet

Just offshore of Puerto Ayora lies Punta Caamaño. This islet is a prime snorkeling destination, as its offshore reefs abound with colorful marine life. Not only can you see a wide variety of tropical fish, but you’ll also likely find yourself swimming alongside rays, sea turtles, and friendly sea lions. If you opt for a Galápagos food tour, you can expect snacks and freshly prepared seafood to complement your water and land-based activities.

Tip: Most snorkeling cruises in the Galápagos are full-day excursions that involve stops at multiple snorkeling sites (for around 30-45 minutes at each).

3. Las Grietas

Though not exactly a secret, no trip to Isla Santa Cruz is complete without a stop at Las Grietas. Located south of Puerto Ayora, this geological wonder is a collection of natural pools formed between volcanic cliffs. It’s a great spot for a dip in crystalline waters and to do some snorkeling. You might even get lucky and spot daring locals doing a bit of cliff diving(though this isn’t recommended for tourists). Las Grietas is accessible via a scenic walk across lava, alongside beaches, and among cacti, which is a highlight unto itself.

TIP: If you can choose the time to go to this place, go early, around 6 AM, to have the whole cove to yourself!

4. Rancho Primicias

The Charles Darwin Research Center, a breeding/conservation program for giant tortoises, is one of the major highlights of the Galápagos Islands. However, this isn’t the only place to witness the iconic tortoises in their natural habitat. Located in the highlands, Rancho Primicias is a privately owned ranch, where you can see dozens of giant tortoises wandering in the grass. 

Tip: Arrive at the research center early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.

5. Tortuga Bay

Back at the island’s south coast, you’ll find another star of Santa Cruz: Tortuga Bay. This long, white-sand beach is the postcard image you see of the Galápagos. Easily accessible via a 1.5-mile (2.5 km) trail from Puerto Ayora, the beach runs up against turquoise waters and is a haven for various iconic wildlife, including sea lions, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and more.

Tip: Other coastal highlights in and around Puerto Ayora include Lagunas Las Ninfas and Playa de la Estacion. 

6. Canal de los Tiburones (Shark Channel)

If the idea of swimming with sharks doesn’t appeal to you, the Canal de los Tiburones, or Shark Channel, provides a safe yet thrilling alternative. This natural viewpoint near Punta Estrada lets you observe whitetip reef sharks resting in a volcanic rock channel from dry land, just a few feet away. The channel is shallow and calm, making the sharks clearly visible; rays, marine iguanas, and sea lions also frequent the area.

A walk of about 20–25 minutes brings you here, either as part of a Galapagos Bay tour or from Punta Estrada on your own. Many tours include it as a stop on a bay tour in Santa Cruz, Galápagos, because it allows travelers to witness these graceful predators without getting wet. This makes it an ideal addition to your Santa Cruz, Galapagos itinerary if you want to experience a day trip in Galapagos safely from land.

Tip: Visit in the morning or early afternoon when sunlight penetrates the crystal‑clear water, and don’t forget your camera to capture the incredible marine life. 

7. Laguna de las Ninfas (Nymphs Lagoon)

Hidden within the urban area of Puerto Ayora, Laguna de las Ninfas is a tranquil saltwater lagoon accessible via a wooden boardwalk. Surrounded by white and red mangroves, it offers an unexpected haven of peace just minutes from town.

The walk around the lagoon is easy and takes about 30–45 minutes, making it ideal for families and travelers seeking a quiet escape. Although not always included on a typical bay tour Santa Cruz Galápagos itinerary, it’s a wonderful addition to your Galápagos bay tour plans—many travelers visit on their own before or after a cruise or day tour. This serene stop allows you to connect with nature, observe mangrove ecosystems, and enjoy birdwatching without straying far from the port.

Tip: Plan your visit during the day (night-time visits are not allowed) and bring water and sunscreen for a stroll among the mangroves.

Explore the Best Galápagos Tours from Santa Cruz

Explore more immersive Galápagos experiences like never before. From snorkeling in Punta Caamaño Islet to witnessing giant tortoises in Rancho Primicias, these handpicked island-hopping tours offer an unforgettable way to explore Santa Cruz’s highlights.

Bay Tour Santa Cruz: FAQs

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Rebecca Braak

Founder and CEO

I am an Adventurer who loves travel and intercultural exchange. With a background in International Management and experience working at KLM, I started my travel company in 2014. Today, I own Rebecca Adventure Travel, Reizen met Rebecca, and EcuaFina. Through these ventures, I bring the best of Latin America to travelers, with a deep commitment to local communities and the environment.