El Garrapatero Beach
A remote, unspoiled beach on Santa Cruz Island, El Garrapatero offers soft white sands, warm waters, and a tranquil lagoon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
El Garrapatero Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remote, unspoiled beach on Santa Cruz Island, El Garrapatero offers soft white sands, warm waters, and a tranquil lagoon.
"This beach was absolutely STUNNING! We had the entire place almost completely to ourselves!"
Pack Your Essentials
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as amenities are scarce. :sunwithface:
Scooter Ride Comfort
If arriving by scooter, a jacket is a lifesaver for the chilly, damp route through Bellavista. :motorcycle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pristine White Sands
Main beach area
Sink your toes into incredibly soft, fine white sand perfect for sunbathing and leisurely strolls.
Tranquil Lagoon
Near the beach
A peaceful pond where you might spot a lone flamingo feeding, adding a touch of wild beauty.
Secluded Swimming
Oceanfront
Enjoy warm, inviting waters ideal for swimming, especially when the swell isn't too high.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Getting There & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Your Essentials
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as amenities are scarce. :sunwithface:
Scooter Ride Comfort
If arriving by scooter, a jacket is a lifesaver for the chilly, damp route through Bellavista. :motorcycle:
Bathroom Preparedness
Restrooms are available, but it's wise to bring your own toilet paper just in case. :toilet:
Embrace the Quiet
This beach is known for its peaceful atmosphere, often with few visitors. Enjoy the solitude! :peace_symbol:
Garrapatero Beach - Bathrooms?
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Your Essentials
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as amenities are scarce. :sunwithface:
Scooter Ride Comfort
If arriving by scooter, a jacket is a lifesaver for the chilly, damp route through Bellavista. :motorcycle:
Bathroom Preparedness
Restrooms are available, but it's wise to bring your own toilet paper just in case. :toilet:
Embrace the Quiet
This beach is known for its peaceful atmosphere, often with few visitors. Enjoy the solitude! :peace_symbol:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about El Garrapatero Beach's stunning beauty, soft sands, and tranquil atmosphere, often finding themselves with the place almost to themselves. It's praised as one of the nicest beaches on the island, offering a peaceful escape. However, some note that snorkeling conditions can be affected by swell, and bathroom facilities may not always be fully operational.
"This beach was absolutely STUNNING! We had the entire place almost completely to ourselves! The sands were so soft and the water was so warm. It was worth the drive and visit! They h had two changing rooms, but unfortunately the bathrooms were closed. It was definitely the most beautiful beach I've ever been to!"
Cheyenne Luna
"A lovely, picturesque beach which is well worth a visit. There was a bit of a swell coming in that stirred up the sand, so the snorkeling wasn't very good, but in terms of a swimming beach, it was still great. The soft, fine sand feels good underfoot, and it's a lovely setting.
As a bonus, there was a lone flamingo in the lagoon having a bit of a feed."
Paul Barter
"Gorgeous and peaceful beach. Bring water & sunscreen. If you ride a scooter here a jacket is a lifesaver, the route is often chilly/damp through Bellavista."
juliette boyce
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Garrapatero Beach is located on the east coast of Santa Cruz Island. It's accessible by car or taxi, and the drive can be scenic, though sometimes chilly and damp if coming from areas like Bellavista. Some visitors opt for scooter rentals for the journey.
The drive from Puerto Ayora to El Garrapatero Beach takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and your mode of transport.
Yes, taxis are a common way to reach El Garrapatero Beach. Negotiate the fare beforehand, as some drivers offer round-trip packages including waiting time.
The road is generally paved for a good portion, but can become unpaved or rougher in sections. It winds through varied landscapes, offering a pleasant journey.
Public transport is limited. Taxis or private car rentals are the most reliable ways to reach the beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
El Garrapatero Beach is listed as part of the National Park, but typically there is no separate entrance fee charged directly at the beach itself.
As a natural beach within the Galapagos National Park, El Garrapatero Beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no strict opening or closing times posted.
No, advance booking is not required for El Garrapatero Beach as it's a public natural attraction.
As with all Galapagos National Park sites, visitors are expected to follow park rules, which include not disturbing wildlife and not leaving any trash behind.
Yes, there is a camping area mentioned at El Garrapatero Beach, offering an opportunity for an overnight stay in this beautiful location.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the expansive white sands, the tranquil lagoon with potential flamingo sightings, and the scenic coastal views. The soft light in the morning and late afternoon is ideal for photography.
While drone regulations can vary, the open spaces and stunning landscapes of El Garrapatero Beach offer great potential for aerial photography, provided you adhere to all local rules.
Early mornings offer soft, golden light and fewer people, making it ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoons also provide beautiful lighting.
For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to check with local authorities or park management for any specific permits or guidelines.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and landscape. A telephoto lens can be useful if you spot any distant wildlife. Don't forget a polarizing filter for the water. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't extensive playgrounds or facilities, the natural beauty and open space offer plenty of room for kids to explore. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection, as amenities are limited. The peaceful environment means you can enjoy quality family time without the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist spots.
💰 Budget Travelers
Once there, the main expense is what you bring with you. Packing your own food and drinks is essential, as there are no vendors on-site. This allows you to enjoy a beautiful day out without spending extra money on food and beverages, making it an ideal destination for a cost-effective adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing El Garrapatero Beach
Beyond the main beach area, a notable feature is the peaceful lagoon, which is a habitat for wildlife, including the occasional sighting of a lone flamingo. This adds a unique charm to the landscape. For those seeking a bit more activity, there are mentions of kayaks for rent and trails to explore. The overall experience is one of quiet enjoyment and appreciation for the natural environment.
When planning your visit, remember that amenities are minimal. It's crucial to bring your own water and sunscreen as there are limited facilities. While bathrooms are available, it's a good idea to be prepared with your own supplies. The journey to the beach can also be an adventure, with some routes being cooler and damper, making a jacket advisable if you're arriving by scooter.
Getting to El Garrapatero Beach
The drive itself is part of the experience, taking you through varied landscapes on Santa Cruz Island. If you're traveling by scooter, be prepared for potentially chilly and damp conditions on certain stretches of the route, especially if passing through areas like Bellavista. This makes a jacket a practical item to have.
While public transport options are scarce, the journey is generally manageable and well worth the effort for the reward of reaching this secluded beach. The drive offers a glimpse into the island's interior before opening up to the coastal beauty of El Garrapatero.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit