Playa de la Estacion: A Tranquil Beach Escape
A conveniently located beach in Puerto Ayora, perfect for a quick swim and wildlife viewing, near the Darwin Research Station.
Playa de la Estación, or Station Beach, is a small, accessible beach near the Charles Darwin Research Station in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island. Known for its calm waters and proximity to town, it's a favorite among locals and offers a quick escape for a refreshing dip or snorkel.
A brief summary to Playa de la Estacion
- Puerto Ayora, EC
Local tips
- Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the calm bay and spot marine life.
- Visit early in the morning for the best snorkeling conditions and fewer crowds.
- Wear water shoes to protect your feet from the volcanic rocks.
- Bring your own water and snacks, as there are no vendors on the beach.
- Be mindful of the marine iguanas and maintain a safe distance.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the Puerto Ayora main dock, walk along Avenida Charles Darwin towards the Charles Darwin Research Station. Playa de la Estación is approximately a 15-minute walk, well-signposted along the way. There are no costs associated with walking to the beach.
-
Taxi
Taxis in Puerto Ayora are readily available, typically white pickup trucks. A short taxi ride within town has a fixed cost of $1.25. Ask the driver to take you to Playa de la Estación, near the Charles Darwin Research Station. The ride should be very short from most points in town.
Discover more about Playa de la Estacion
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scuba Iguana
0.4 km
Explore the Galapagos underwater world with Scuba Iguana, the most experienced dive center in Puerto Ayora. Daily diving tours available!
Lancha El Galapago I
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Galapagos Islands with expert tours from Lancha El Galapago I, your gateway to adventure and natural beauty.
Blu Galapagos
0.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort, culinary delights, and adventurous tours at Blu Galapagos in Puerto Ayora, the heart of the Galápagos Islands.
Almar
0.5 km
Experience fresh seafood and local flavors at Almar in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos, with stunning ocean views and a commitment to sustainability.
Samay Latin Art
0.5 km
Discover vibrant Latin American art in the Galapagos: contemporary paintings, traditional crafts, and unique cultural expressions.
El Pinzón
0.6 km
Discover comfort and charm at El Pinzón in Puerto Ayora, your perfect base for exploring the wonders of the Galápagos Islands.
Midori
0.6 km
Experience exquisite sushi at Midori in Puerto Ayora – where local flavors meet Japanese culinary artistry in the heart of the Galapagos.
La Fortaleza de Haro
0.6 km
Experience the enchanting La Fortaleza de Haro, your cozy retreat in Puerto Ayora, Ecuador, the gateway to the stunning Galápagos Islands.
La Casa de Judy
0.6 km
Experience comfort and convenience at La Casa de Judy in Puerto Ayora, your ideal base for exploring the Galapagos Islands' wonders.
Hostal Sueños Silvestres
0.6 km
A peaceful hostal in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos, offering comfortable accommodations and a convenient location for exploring the islands' wonders.
El Muelle de Darwin
0.6 km
Experience Ecuadorian flavors with waterfront views at El Muelle de Darwin, a top dining destination in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos.
Galapagos Morning Glory
0.7 km
Experience the unique charm of Galapagos Morning Glory Hostel, where adventure meets comfort in the heart of Puerto Ayora, Galapagos Islands.
Bahía Mar
0.7 km
Experience fresh Ecuadorian seafood with stunning ocean views at Bahía Mar in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos. A culinary delight!
Golden Prague Pub
0.7 km
Golden Prague Pub in Puerto Ayora: A lively spot for delicious food and drinks, offering a blend of local and international flavors in a vibrant atmosphere.
Maidith Galapagos Inn
0.7 km
Experience Galapagos hospitality at Maidith Inn: comfortable rooms, a refreshing pool, and personalized service in Puerto Ayora.
Unmissable attractions to see
Charles Darwin Research Station
0.2 km
Discover the Charles Darwin Research Station, a pivotal hub for conservation and research in the breathtaking Galapagos Islands.
Caamaño Islet
1.0 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Caamañó Islet, a hidden paradise in Ecuador perfect for relaxation and adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes.
San Francisco boardwalk
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant marine life, stunning ocean views, and local culture at the San Francisco Boardwalk in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos.
Academy Bay
1.1 km
Explore Academy Bay, a serene coastal paradise in Ecuador, where stunning beaches meet vibrant marine life and unforgettable adventures await.
Playa los alemanes
1.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Playa los Alemanes, a hidden beach gem in Puerto Ayora, Galapagos, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Nymphs Lagoon
1.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of Nymphs Lagoon in Puerto Ayora, a tranquil oasis perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers alike.
Galapagos Up las Grietas
1.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Las Grietas, a stunning natural wonder in the Galapagos, perfect for swimming and snorkeling amidst unique rock formations.
Castillo Galapagos
1.6 km
Experience the charm of Castillo Galapagos, a hotel that combines castle-like elegance with the adventure of the Galapagos Islands.
El Mirador de Los Tuneles
2.8 km
Experience the stunning geological formations and rich biodiversity at El Mirador de Los Tuneles in Puerto Ayora, Galápagos Islands.
Tortuga Bay Beach
3.6 km
Explore Tortuga Bay Beach in the Galápagos for stunning vistas, rich wildlife, and unforgettable experiences on this pristine paradise.
Tortuga Bay
4.0 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Tortuga Bay in the Galápagos Islands, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Playa Peninsula
5.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Playa Peninsula, a pristine beach in Ecuador, perfect for relaxation, swimming, and stunning sunsets.
Galapagos frontier
6.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife of Galapagos Frontier, a premier nature preserve in Santa Cruz, Ecuador, for unforgettable adventures.
El Trapiche Ecológico Galápagos
7.4 km
Immerse yourself in the sustainable beauty of Galápagos at El Trapiche Ecológico, where eco-farming meets delicious local cuisine.
Highland View Galapagos
8.8 km
Explore the beauty of Highland View Galapagos on Isla Santa Cruz, a unique organic farm and animal park in the heart of the Galapagos Islands.
Essential places to dine
Anca Restaurante Galapagos
0.5 km
Experience the essence of Ecuadorian cuisine at Anca Restaurante Galapagos - where every dish tells a story.
Fraileana Food Park
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Ecuador at Fraileana Food Park, where culinary delights await in the heart of Puerto Ayora.
La Cevicheria by Isla Grill
0.7 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian ceviche at La Cevicheria by Isla Grill in Puerto Ayora—where fresh seafood meets local flavor.
Isla Grill
0.7 km
Experience authentic Galapagos flavors at Isla Grill in Puerto Ayora - where fresh ingredients meet vibrant atmosphere.
Burger House
0.8 km
Savor gourmet burgers in the heart of Puerto Ayora at Burger House – where flavor meets fun in the Galapagos Islands.
PLAZA EL JARDÍN GALÁPAGOS
0.8 km
Experience vibrant dining at Plaza El Jardín Galápagos with fresh local flavors and tropical ambiance in Puerto Ayora.
Lemon & Coffee
0.8 km
Discover delicious local flavors at Lemon & Coffee in Puerto Ayora - where every meal is a taste of paradise.
Nazca Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience exquisite fusion cuisine at Nazca Restaurant - where Ecuadorian, Peruvian & Spanish flavors come together in Puerto Ayora.
TJ
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Puerto Ayora at TJ - where culinary excellence meets tropical charm.
Galapagos Steak & Wine
0.9 km
Experience culinary excellence at Galapagos Steak & Wine, where every dish tells a story of freshness and flavor.
Trattoria de Pippo
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria de Pippo in Puerto Ayora, where delicious flavors meet the breathtaking beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
Lo & Lo
1.0 km
Discover authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Lo & Lo in Puerto Ayora – where every dish tells a story of local tradition and flavor.
Los Moros
1.0 km
Experience the authentic taste of Ecuador at Los Moros in Isla Santiago - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Rosy Mar
1.0 km
Experience the authentic taste of Ecuador at Rosy Mar in Puerto Ayora - where tradition meets flavor.
Playa Sol Y Mar
1.1 km
Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at Playa Sol Y Mar in Puerto Ayora - where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Coffee Galápagos
0.4 km
Discover Art Coffee Galápagos, where exquisite local coffee meets the vibrant culture of Puerto Ayora in the breathtaking Galápagos Islands.
Chocolápagos
0.5 km
Discover the exquisite world of handcrafted chocolates at Chocolápagos, Puerto Ayora's premier chocolate shop, where flavors and aromas come to life.
Iguanas Bananas
0.5 km
Discover unique Galapagos crafts and souvenirs at Iguanas Bananas, a boutique treasure in Puerto Ayora, perfect for travelers seeking local artistry.
Galapagos Jewelry Official
0.6 km
Discover handcrafted jewelry inspired by the natural beauty and culture of the Galapagos Islands at Galapagos Jewelry in Puerto Ayora.
1835 Restaurant & Coffee
0.6 km
Discover the flavors of the Galápagos at 1835 Restaurant & Coffee, where fresh ingredients meet delightful culinary creations.
Aymara Art & Jewelry
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant handmade crafts at Aymara Art & Jewelry in Puerto Ayora, showcasing authentic Galapagos artistry and craftsmanship.
Tatoo Adventure Gear Galápagos
0.6 km
Explore the Galápagos Islands with top-notch outdoor gear from Tatoo Adventure Gear, your go-to for biking and camping essentials.
Ferreteria Bodega Blanca S. A.
0.6 km
Explore the best of hardware and marine supplies at Ferreteria Bodega Blanca S. A. in Puerto Ayora, your gateway to Galápagos adventures.
I Go Gringo
0.7 km
Experience the flavors of the Galápagos Islands at I Go Gringo, your local grocery store in Puerto Ayora, offering unique local and international products.
593 Origins
0.7 km
Explore the essence of Ecuadorian craftsmanship at 593 Origins, a charming boutique in Puerto Ayora offering unique fashion and handcrafted souvenirs.
Galería Exótico Ecuador - Fair Trade
0.7 km
Explore Galería Exótico Ecuador for exquisite handicrafts and artistic treasures that celebrate the rich culture of Ecuador.
DARWIN+WOLF
0.7 km
Explore the best of Galapagos fashion at DARWIN+WOLF, where quality meets unique island-inspired designs.
Opuntia Ceramics
0.7 km
Explore Opuntia Ceramics in Puerto Ayora for unique handmade pottery inspired by the Galapagos' natural beauty.
Patas Azules Socks
0.7 km
Shop at Patas Azules Socks in Puerto Ayora for unique, vibrant, and comfortable socks inspired by the beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
Santeria Tattoo Shop Galapagos
0.8 km
Discover unique body art at Santeria Tattoo Shop in Puerto Ayora, where creativity meets the breathtaking beauty of the Galapagos.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bugan Villa
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and tropical charm of Bugan Villa, a bar in Puerto Ayora that blends good music with an inviting outdoor space.
Darwin's Lounge
0.5 km
Experience the best cocktails at Darwin's Lounge in Puerto Ayora, where creativity meets the laid-back island vibe of the Galapagos.
AYORA Resto Wine
0.5 km
Experience the essence of Samay at AYORA Resto Wine, where exquisite tapas and fine wines create unforgettable moments.
Bowl Acai Bar
0.6 km
Discover Bowl Acai Bar in Puerto Ayora: Your go-to spot for vibrant acai bowls and healthful delights in the heart of the Galapagos.
Fernandina Lounge & Bar
0.7 km
Experience the flavors of the Galapagos at Fernandina Lounge & Bar, where grilled delights and refreshing cocktails await in Puerto Ayora.
bongo bar
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bongo Bar in Puerto Ayora, where refreshing cocktails and lively music bring the Galapagos spirit to life.
La discoteca de Wilfrido
0.8 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at La discoteca de Wilfrido, Puerto Ayora's premier karaoke bar, where unforgettable memories await every night.
Cervecería Artesanal Cactácea Drink
0.9 km
Experience the best of local craft beers in a vibrant setting at Cervecería Artesanal Cactácea Drink, Puerto Ayora's hidden gem.
Rincón del Alma
0.9 km
Discover Rincón del Alma in Puerto Ayora, where delicious grilled cuisine meets the vibrant culture of the Galápagos Islands.
Alessandro
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Galapagos at Alessandro Grill in Puerto Ayora, where local ingredients meet culinary excellence.
Al Paso
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Al Paso, a premier grill restaurant in Puerto Ayora, serving authentic Ecuadorian cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
Gelato Bar
1.0 km
Experience the delightful flavors of Gelato Bar in Puerto Ayora, where creamy gelato and rich espresso await amidst the beauty of the Galápagos Islands.
REPTILIA GALAPAGOS BEER STATION
1.0 km
Experience the unique flavors of Galapagos at Reptilia Beer Station, where craft beers and local culture meet in a cozy brewpub atmosphere.
booths and cyber
1.1 km
Discover Booths and Cyber, a vibrant bar in Puerto Ayora, offering a unique blend of local drinks and a lively atmosphere for travelers.
Galapagos Beer Company - Boobies Craft Beer
1.1 km
Discover the flavors of the Galapagos at Galapagos Beer Company, a brewpub offering unique craft beers and a vibrant atmosphere in Puerto Ayora.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
NEPTUNUS BLUE CLUB
0.7 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Neptunus Blue Club in Puerto Ayora, where dance and celebration await in a tropical paradise.
Discoteca George
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Puerto Ayora at Discoteca George, where music, dancing, and fun come together in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Aeropuerto VIP Club
33.3 km
Experience the ultimate pre-flight relaxation at Aeropuerto VIP Club on Baltra Island, where comfort meets convenience.
San pither
77.1 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Puerto Villamil at San Pither, the go-to night club for music and dance lovers.
Iguana Rock
79.4 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of the Galápagos at Iguana Rock, a vibrant grill in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno offering unforgettable dining experiences.
rocas y tacos
79.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Rocas y Tacos in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, a must-visit grill restaurant in the Galapagos Islands.
The Island Discoteca
79.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno at The Island Discoteca, where music, dancing, and cultural celebrations come alive every night.
NEPTUNUS CLUB
79.5 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Neptunus Club in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, where electrifying music and a lively atmosphere await your arrival.
Karaoke the night
79.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Cristobal at Karaoke the Night, a must-visit karaoke bar for tourists seeking fun and entertainment.
MarByg
79.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at MarByg in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, where karaoke meets unforgettable memories and island charm.
Karaoke Discotec Stephano's
80.3 km
Unleash your inner star at Karaoke Discotec Stephano's, the ultimate dance club experience in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno's vibrant nightlife.
