

Best for beginner divers, shore entry, mild current.
Tortuga Bay (Playa Mansa) is a sheltered, calm lagoon located at the end of the Tortuga Bay trail on Santa Cruz Island. Distinct from the rough surf of the adjacent Playa Brava, this site features shallow, mangrove-lined waters that serve as a nursery for juvenile marine life. Snorkellers can access the water directly from the shore, with the site situated 2500 metres from the main trail access point. Conditions are generally suitable for beginners, with mild currents and visibility ranging from 8 to 18 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate between 22C and 27C throughout the year. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of the presence of sharks in the area.
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Playa Mansa has calm and safe waters suitable for swimming, while Playa Brava has stronger waves and is more conducive to surfing.
Head to Baltra Island airport. From Puerto Ayora, walk approximately 2.5 kilometers to the entrance of Tortuga Bay, then follow the well-signposted trail for 40 minutes to 1 hour.
Recorded at this site
Visibility
8-18m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
22-27°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
60 min
Best Time
Year-round
Yes, the site is rated for beginners due to its sheltered, calm lagoon environment and mild currents.
Access is via the shore at the end of the Tortuga Bay trail.
Yes, this site is a designated snorkel location with a rating of 4 out of 5.
The primary hazard at this site is the presence of sharks.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Tortuga Bay (Playa Mansa) in Puerto Ayora. Water temperatures range from 22°C to 27°C.
The best months to visit Tortuga Bay (Playa Mansa) in Puerto Ayora are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Tortuga Bay (Playa Mansa) in Puerto Ayora typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Tortuga Bay (Playa Mansa) in Puerto Ayora typically ranges from 8 metres to 18 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.