Description
Santa Cruz in the Galapagos Islands is the second largest island in the archipelago and the main tourist center. It's home to the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Galapagos National Park, making it the ideal starting point to explore the islands. Its beaches, like Tortuga Bay, are famous for their beauty and their population of marine iguanas.
Gallery
Images coming soon
Features
Water temp.
23°C
Climate
Seco
Updated
6/19/2026
Nearby attractions
Tortuga Bay
A landscape of fine white sand, Tortuga Bay creates a bond between visitors and its special animals. It's a protected beach, ideal for walking, observing marine iguanas, and enjoying nature in its purest state.
Galapagos National Park
The country's first National Park founded in 1959, considered the best-preserved volcanic archipelago in the world. It protects the unique biodiversity of the islands and is a World Natural Heritage Site.
Los Gemelos Craters
Inactive craters located near the Intabaca channel, impressive for their size and depth. They are geological formations that offer spectacular views and are habitat for endemic birds.
Las Grietas
Formed by volcanic lava fissures that shape 2 giant walls, creating a channel for water entertainment. It's an ideal place for swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear waters.
Charles Darwin Research Station
For decades, the Charles Darwin Foundation has been responsible for the conservation, protection, and sustainability of the Galapagos archipelago. It's the most important research center on the islands.
Cerro Crocker Viewpoint
It's one of the highest hills on Santa Cruz Island. When you reach the top via the trail, if you're lucky, you'll be able to admire the Petrel, an imposing endemic bird of the Galapagos.
Puerto Ayora Boardwalk
Upon arriving on the island, most tourists look for accommodation near the boardwalk of Puerto Ayora, located at the southern end of Santa Cruz. It's the tourist and commercial heart of the island.
Lava Tunnels
In rural areas you can find several lava tunnel formations, definitely not for the faint-hearted, live an experience at the center of the earth. They are unique geological formations that transport you inside a volcano.
Location
-0.6333, -90.35
Interactive map coming soon
