Santa Cruz Island Hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz Island

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Santa Cruz Island boasts breathtaking landscapes, from pristine beaches to captivating caves, perfect for nature lovers.
• Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling outdoor pursuits like snorkelling, diving, and hiking amidst the island's diverse marine life.
• Vibrant Bella Vista Neighbourhood: Explore this charming area, where convenience meets picturesque surroundings, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
• Ecological Experiences: Visit nature reserves and eco-friendly sites that showcase the unique wildlife of the Galápagos.
• Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a range of comfortable hotels and lodges tailored to various travellers' needs.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz Island

Discover the diverse accommodation options on Santa Cruz Island, where a range of hotels and lodges await to suit every traveler's needs. Whether you're seeking adventure, a family getaway, or a business trip, you'll find the perfect base for your exploration of the Galápagos. With numerous hotels offering excellent amenities and services, you're sure to enjoy a memorable stay while indulging in the stunning natural beauty of this unique destination.

• Hotel el descanso del Guia: Nestled 11.3km from Santa Cruz Island, Hotel el descanso del Guia is a charming 3.5-star family-friendly accommodation. This hotel is perfect for travellers seeking a family vacation experience, offering a variety of amenities tailored for children, including a playground, a children's pool, and onsite babysitting services for a small fee. The hotel also features an arcade game room, ensuring the little ones remain entertained while adults can unwind in comfort. The family-oriented atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for those travelling with kids.
• Enchanted Galapagos Lodge: Situated 6.4km from Santa Cruz Island, Enchanted Galapagos Lodge is a delightful 3-star lodge that invites adventure seekers to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Galápagos. With a focus on outdoor activities, guests can indulge in hiking and biking directly on-site, or venture nearby for cave exploring, snorkelling, kayaking, and swimming. The lodge's adventurous spirit makes it a great option for those eager to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and thrilling experiences the islands have to offer.
• Royal Palm Galapagos, Curio Collection Hotel by Hilton: Located 6.4km from Santa Cruz Island, the Royal Palm Galapagos is a luxurious 4-star hotel that caters to both business travellers and adventure enthusiasts. This elegant accommodation offers a range of recreational activities, including onsite hiking and biking, as well as nearby options for snorkelling and fishing. With its sophisticated amenities and stunning surroundings, guests can enjoy a refined experience while still engaging in the thrill of outdoor adventures.

Where to stay near Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island offers an unforgettable travel experience for adventure enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. With its stunning beachfront locations and clear waters, you can indulge in various outdoor activities, from snorkelling to hiking. Explore the vibrant Bella Vista neighbourhood, where convenience meets natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or thrilling escapades, Santa Cruz Island is the perfect destination to immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery and exhilarating adventures.

• Puerto Ayora: Nestled 11.3km from Santa Cruz Island, Puerto Ayora is the bustling heart of the Galápagos Islands. Known for its vibrant outdoor and adventure scene, this city attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel times from March to May. Here, you can explore the stunning national and marine parks, revel in the picturesque scenery, and engage in various recreational activities. Don't miss the local market, where you can immerse yourself in the culture and flavours of the islands, or take a stroll along the waterfront to soak in the breathtaking views.
• Santa Rosa: Located 8.0km from Santa Cruz Island, Santa Rosa is an idyllic city that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes. With travel peaks in July and during the holiday season, this area is a favourite for those seeking a scenic getaway. Visitors can enjoy the tranquillity of the nearby marine and national parks, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. The recreational areas provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities, ensuring a refreshing experience amidst the island's natural beauty.
• Bellavista: Just 6.4km from Santa Cruz Island, Bellavista is a charming village that invites visitors to experience the serene beauty of the Galápagos. With an emphasis on outdoor activities, beach experiences, and snorkelling, it’s a hidden gem for adventure seekers. The village is home to educational venues and recreational areas, making it a perfect spot for families. Explore the local water features, research facilities, and fascinating museums, all while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere that Bellavista has to offer.

Things to do in Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island offers a thrilling blend of adventure and natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore recreational areas, enjoy stunning ocean views, and engage in educational activities. Key attractions include diving centres and reputable dive shops, ideal for those keen on underwater exploration. With its captivating scenery and vibrant marine life, Santa Cruz promises an unforgettable experience for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz Island, visit the bustling Mercado Municipal for local crafts and souvenirs. For a more modern experience, check out the Malecón shopping area, where you can find charming boutiques and artisanal shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs reflecting the island's natural beauty.

Recreation

On Santa Cruz Island, the Galapagos Wellness Retreat provides rejuvenating yoga sessions amidst breathtaking landscapes. Experience holistic therapies at the nearby La Mirage Garden Hotel & Spa, where you can indulge in soothing massages and wellness treatments designed to harmonise body and spirit in a tranquil environment.

Adventure

Explore the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts and see giant tortoises up close. For adventure, hike to Tortuga Bay, a stunning beach with pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for kayaking and snorkelling amidst vibrant marine life.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at the bustling Finado Bar, where you can enjoy cocktails and local brews. For a lively atmosphere, visit the Crazy Frog, renowned for its dancing and upbeat music. Don't miss the chance to mingle with fellow travellers at the charming La Panga.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz Island

To save money on your trip to Santa Cruz Island, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February and September. Book your accommodation about a month in advance, preferably on a Sunday for the best rates. Utilize Expedia’s search tools to filter options by budget and eco-friendly stays, and look for last-minute deals. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Public transport is affordable, and there are numerous free activities to enjoy the island's natural beauty without spending much.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Santa Cruz Island are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Santa Cruz Island about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Santa Cruz Island is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Santa Cruz Island is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will reveal sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation for Santa Cruz Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos, Ecuador, offers an exhilarating escape for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore captivating caves, stunning natural features, and pristine nature reserves, perfect for eco-friendly experiences. It's an ideal destination for outdoor activities, with a range of hotels available for comfortable stays. Whether you're hiking or simply soaking in the scenery, Santa Cruz Island promises unforgettable adventures in a breathtaking setting.

• Rancho El Manzanillo: A delightful nature reserve located 9.7km from Santa Cruz Island, offering eco-friendly adventures amidst lush landscapes. Enjoy close encounters with unique wildlife and explore hiking trails that showcase the island's natural beauty.
• Lava Tunnel: Situated 9.7km away, this fascinating cave formation invites you to embark on an exciting outdoor adventure. Walk through the impressive tunnels created by ancient lava flows, providing a surreal glimpse into the volcanic history of the Galápagos.
• Los Gemelos Sinkholes: Just 6.4km from Santa Cruz Island, these stunning sinkholes are a striking natural feature. Explore the surrounding area, with its lush vegetation and unique geological formations, perfect for photography and wildlife spotting.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz Island

The best time to visit Santa Cruz Island can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Santa Cruz Island falls in March, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Santa Cruz Island falls in September, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	76.8°F (24.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
February	79.0°F (26.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
March	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	79.0°F (26.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	77.7°F (25.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	75.6°F (24.200000000000003°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	73.8°F (23.200000000000003°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	72.1°F (22.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	71.4°F (21.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly Low
October	71.8°F (22.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	74.7°F (23.700000000000003°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz Island

Accessing Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos is possible through three major airports. José de Villamil Airport (IBB) is situated 77.2km away, with nearby options like the 3.5-star Hotel Isamar Galapagos Beachfront and Gran Hostal Tintorera, both 1.6km from the airport, offering various shuttle services. Isla Baltra (GPS-Seymour) is only 22.5km away, with Hotel Galapagos White Stones located 12.9km from the airport, providing transport for a fee. Lastly, San Cristobal Airport (SCY), 85.3km away, features La Zayapa Hotel and Galapagos Sunset Hotel, both within 1.6km and offering convenient shuttle options. Each airport provides essential access to this stunning destination.