Begin with a half day Bahia Tour ($40-75):
A synopsis of the tour:
We start with some flora and fauna observation on the rock formation on the right side of the pier.
There the guide shows us the endemic flora of the island like the opuntia cactus on the top, explains to us how this place was formed, and shows us some orange beautiful crabsm some greyish birds and blue-footed boobies. After we go to the middle of the Academy Bay to try and see some Galápagos sharks.
Then we have the option of snorkeling to see many starfish and colorful fish. When on the boat the guide gives us fruits to eat. After that, we go to a beautiful beach and after 20 meters you can see the gorgeous Love Channel on your right. Unfortunately swimming here is not allowed on the tour.
We continue on an earthy path onto the Playa de Los Perros beach. On the way you see some Opuntias cacti and perhaps some lava lizards. It’s a short 5-minute walk to the beach.
Once at the “beach”, you can take some photos and try to spot some marine iguanas on the rocks, but that’s about it. There is almost no sand next to the water. Perhaps it’s better at high tide. Try to come here by yourself and check the tides first.
Then we move on to see the Las Tintoreras pools. In theory we can see baby black tip reef sharks that in the Galapagos are called Tintoreras. The water may be too muddy, however, as is reported in reviews.
After Las Tintoreras we head back to the boat to go to the area where Las Grietas canyon is located.
Once at the “beach”, you can take some photos and try to spot some marine iguanas on the rocks, but that’s about it. There is almost no sand next to the water. Perhaps it’s better at high tide. Try to come here by yourself and check the tides first.
Then we move on to see the Las Tintoreras pools. In theory we can see baby black tip reef sharks that in the Galapagos are called Tintoreras. The water may be too muddy, however, as is reported in reviews.
After Las Tintoreras we head back to the boat to go to the area where Las Grietas canyon is located.
You can’t beat the idea of swimming through a lava tunnel and seeing the few fish in the water. Well worth the $10 entry fee. DO NOT pay for a guided experience that is advertised in the town for $35-$40. You can do this for $12 per person on your own. Take the water taxi and just follow the path. It’s about a 15 minute walk. Do yourself a favor and stop at German beach when you’re done as there is excellent snorkeling at the beach to include sea turtles.
Spend the afternoon at Tortuga Bay beach:
Tortuga Bay beach is hands down a tourist's favorite beach in the Galapagos. The beach got its name because it’s a favorite spot for sea turtles to come and lay their eggs. This stunning beach with white sand and crystal-clear water is a haven for marine iguanas and baby reef sharks. It’s the perfect place to sunbathe, kayak, or relax and unwind. It’s located about 3 km southwest of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz island and is comprised of two beaches: Playa Brava, with its waves, and Playa Mansa, a smaller and calmer beach. We don't want to miss out on visiting this paradise.
Tortuga Bay beach is hands down a tourist's favorite beach in the Galapagos. The beach got its name because it’s a favorite spot for sea turtles to come and lay their eggs. This stunning beach with white sand and crystal-clear water is a haven for marine iguanas and baby reef sharks. It’s the perfect place to sunbathe, kayak, or relax and unwind. It’s located about 3 km southwest of Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz island and is comprised of two beaches: Playa Brava, with its waves, and Playa Mansa, a smaller and calmer beach. We don't want to miss out on visiting this paradise.
Go back to the Airbnb and clean up. Spend the evening in Puerto Ayora.