Tortuga Bay: A Slice of Paradise in Ecuador
Explore the stunning beauty of Tortuga Bay in the Galápagos Islands, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Tortuga Bay is a breathtaking bay located in the Galápagos Islands, renowned for its pristine beaches, rich biodiversity, and vibrant marine life. A visit here is a must for any traveler seeking natural beauty and adventure.
A brief summary to Tortuga Bay
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Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and better chances of spotting wildlife.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities at the beach.
- Wear sunscreen and a hat, as there is minimal shade along the beach.
- Consider taking a kayak tour to explore the bay and its marine life from a different perspective.
- Respect local wildlife; do not approach or feed animals you encounter.
Getting There
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Taxi
If you are staying in Puerto Ayora, the main town on Santa Cruz Island, the quickest way to reach Tortuga Bay is by taking a taxi. Taxis are available throughout Puerto Ayora. Simply tell the driver you want to go to Tortuga Bay. The fare is approximately $5-10, depending on the exact location of your accommodation. The ride takes about 10 minutes. The taxi will drop you off at the entrance to Tortuga Bay, where you will have to walk about 2.5 km (1.5 miles) along a scenic trail to reach the beach.
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Public Bus
For a more economical option, you can take a public bus from Puerto Ayora to the Tortuga Bay entrance. Buses leave regularly from the main street near the fish market. The fare is around $0.50, and the journey takes about 15-20 minutes. After getting off at the Tortuga Bay stop, you will need to walk approximately 2.5 km (1.5 miles) along a well-marked trail to reach the beach.
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Walking from Puerto Ayora
If you prefer to walk, you can start from the center of Puerto Ayora and follow the signs to Tortuga Bay. It is a scenic walk of approximately 2.5 km (1.5 miles) along a well-maintained path. This option allows you to enjoy the local flora and fauna along the way. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for the walk.
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Bicycle Rental
Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the area at your own pace. Many shops in Puerto Ayora offer bicycle rentals for about $5-10 per day. From Puerto Ayora, you can ride to the entrance of Tortuga Bay, which is about 2.5 km (1.5 miles) away. After parking your bike at the entrance, you will need to walk the remaining distance to the beach.
Discover more about Tortuga Bay
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finch Bay Restaurante
2.8 km
Experience the exquisite flavors of Ecuador at Finch Bay Restaurante, a culinary haven in the heart of the Galapagos Islands.
Agave Studio
2.9 km
Discover the culinary delights of Agave Studio in Puerto Ayora, where local flavors meet a vibrant dining atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
CASA DEL LAGO LODGING HOUSE
2.9 km
Escape to Casa del Lago Lodging House in Puerto Ayora, the perfect blend of comfort and nature in the heart of the Galapagos Islands.
Villa Laguna
2.9 km
Experience the essence of the Galápagos Islands at Villa Laguna, where comfort meets adventure in the heart of Puerto Ayora.
Galapagos a la Carte
2.9 km
Discover the Galapagos Islands with personalized tours and excursions from Galapagos a la Carte, your trusted travel agency in Puerto Ayora.
Restaurante Red Tuna
2.9 km
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Laguna Beach
2.9 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Ecuador at Laguna Beach, a must-visit restaurant in Puerto Ayora with breathtaking coastal views.
Captain Max B & B
3.0 km
Experience the charm of Puerto Ayora at Captain Max B & B, where comfort meets local culture in the heart of the Galapagos Islands.
Restaurante El Descanso del Guía - Muelle
3.0 km
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Galápagos Best Option
3.0 km
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La Casa del Bolón
3.1 km
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Galapagos Ecuadoors
3.1 km
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Travellers
3.1 km
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Galapagos Deli
3.1 km
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Angermeyer Waterfront Inn
3.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Tortuga Bay Beach
0.5 km
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Playa Peninsula
1.4 km
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Las Grietas
2.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Las Grietas, a stunning swimming basin in the Galápagos, perfect for relaxation and exploration among nature's wonders.
Galapagos Up las Grietas
2.6 km
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Laguna las Ninfas
2.7 km
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Nymphs Lagoon
2.8 km
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Playa los alemanes
2.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Playa los Alemanes, a stunning beach in Puerto Ayora known for its white sands and vibrant marine life.
Castillo Galapagos
2.9 km
Experience the charm of Castillo Galapagos, a hotel that combines castle-like elegance with the adventure of the Galapagos Islands.
San Francisco boardwalk
3.0 km
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Saint Francis Park
3.0 km
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Gus Angermeyer Pier and Ferry Terminal
3.1 km
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Puerto Ayora Jetty
3.1 km
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Mercado Artesanal
3.4 km
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Fishing piers
3.4 km
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El Muelle de Darwin
3.5 km
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Essential places to dine
La Pausa
3.0 km
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Rosy Mar
3.0 km
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Lo & Lo
3.1 km
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Playa Sol Y Mar
3.1 km
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Finca Grill Restaurante
3.1 km
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Trattoria de Pippo
3.1 km
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TJ
3.1 km
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Galapagos Steak & Wine
3.2 km
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Nazca Restaurant
3.3 km
Experience exquisite fusion cuisine at Nazca Restaurant - where Ecuadorian, Peruvian & Spanish flavors come together in Puerto Ayora.
Lemon & Coffee
3.3 km
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La Sazón de las Kiños
3.3 km
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Isla Grill
3.4 km
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PLAZA EL JARDÍN GALÁPAGOS
3.4 km
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La Paz
3.4 km
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Burger House
3.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tienda Albatros.
2.9 km
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Puerto Ayora
3.0 km
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Proinsular Market
3.0 km
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GREEN COLONY
3.0 km
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D' Willy Santa Cruz
3.1 km
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Mega Primavera Galápagos S.A
3.1 km
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El Dulzon
3.2 km
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MILCOLORES
3.2 km
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Mini Shop Paolita
3.2 km
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City Market
3.2 km
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Galamaxy El Gato
3.2 km
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Élite Su Almacén
3.2 km
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Caribe Boutique
3.2 km
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Inka Market y algo más
3.3 km
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Santeria Tattoo Shop Galapagos
3.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bohemian.Bar Galapagos
2.8 km
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Gelato Bar
3.0 km
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REPTILIA GALAPAGOS BEER STATION
3.1 km
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Alessandro
3.1 km
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Galapagos Beer Company - Boobies Craft Beer
3.1 km
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Rincón del Alma
3.1 km
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Al Paso
3.1 km
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booths and cyber
3.1 km
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Cervecería Artesanal Cactácea Drink
3.2 km
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La discoteca de Wilfrido
3.3 km
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bongo bar
3.3 km
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REPTILIA GALAPAGOS BREWERY
3.4 km
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Bowl Acai Bar
3.6 km
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AYORA Resto Wine
3.6 km
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Bugan Villa
3.7 km
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