

Best for beginner divers, shore entry, mild current.
El Garrapatero Beach is a remote white-sand location on the eastern coast of Santa Cruz Island. The site features rocky outcrops and tidal pools, providing a shore-entry snorkelling experience suitable for beginners. Conditions are generally mild, with visibility ranging from 12 to 33 metres and water temperatures between 22 and 27 degrees Celsius. Facilities at the beach include parking, toilets, and changing rooms. Species recorded around this area include California sea lions, spotted eagle rays, whitetip reef sharks, and various reef fish such as wrasses, pufferfish, and blue-barred parrotfish. Be aware that sharks are present in these waters.
-0.68550, -90.22480
Visit during the week to avoid crowds, as weekends are busier with locals.
Accessible by land only. Take a taxi van from Puerto Ayora to the parking lot, then walk 10-15 minutes along an 870-meter trail to the registration hut and beach.
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Visibility
12-33m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
22-27°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
60 min
Yes, this site is suitable for snorkelling and is rated 3 out of 5 for the activity.
Yes, the site is accessible from the shore and features mild currents, making it appropriate for beginner snorkellers.
Species recorded around this area include California sea lions, spotted eagle rays, whitetip reef sharks, jewel morays, blue-barred parrotfish, wrasses, pufferfish, and spiny lobsters.
Visibility typically ranges from 12 to 33 metres, with water temperatures between 22 and 27 degrees Celsius and mild currents.
Sharks are present in the waters at this location.
El Garrapatero Beach in Puerto Ayora is a shore dive. Accessible by land only. Take a taxi van from Puerto Ayora to the parking lot, then walk 10-15 minutes along an 870-meter trail to the registration hut and beach.
Yes, parking is available near El Garrapatero Beach. Arrive early during peak seasons as spaces can fill up quickly.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at El Garrapatero Beach in Puerto Ayora. Water temperatures range from 22°C to 27°C.