Tortuga Bay
Tortuga Bay combines a long white-sand beach, coastal wildlife, spectacular cactus habitat and a sheltered mangrove-fringed bay within walking distance of Puerto Ayora.
The walk from Puerto Ayora
The visit begins with a paved trail through the dry coastal zone. The walk is an important part of the experience, providing an opportunity to observe the vegetation and changing landscape before reaching the coast.
Visitors should allow enough time for both the outward and return walks, as well as any time they want to spend at the beaches.
Tall Opuntia cactus forest
The trail and the small peninsula between Playa Brava and Playa Mansa contain superb examples of the tall, tree-form Opuntia cacti characteristic of this part of Santa Cruz. Together with the cactus habitat around the Charles Darwin Research Station, this is one of the best accessible places to appreciate these endemic plants. Cactus finches and other dry-zone birds may also be seen here.
Playa Brava
The first beach, Playa Brava, is a long and spectacular stretch of white sand exposed to the open ocean. Strong currents generally make it unsuitable for swimming, although it is popular with experienced surfers.
Marine iguanas and coastal birds can often be seen along the beach.
Playa Mansa
At the far end of Playa Brava, a short path leads to Playa Mansa, a much more sheltered bay surrounded by mangroves. Its calmer water normally makes it the better area for swimming, relaxing and kayaking.
Marine iguanas, sea turtles, rays, small sharks and a variety of coastal birds may be seen around the beach, mangroves and shallow water.
Planning the visit
Tortuga Bay can occupy much of a morning or afternoon, depending on walking pace and the amount of time spent at the beaches. Visitors should carry drinking water and sun protection, and take account of the site’s opening hours and the return walk to Puerto Ayora.
Interested in visiting Tortuga Bay?
Tell us your approximate travel dates, group size and interests. We’ll help you fit this experience into a sensible Galápagos itinerary.
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