Find hotels in Santa Cruz Island from SAR 150

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz Island

• Stunning Scenery: Santa Cruz Island boasts breathtaking landscapes, from picturesque beaches to captivating caves.
• Diverse Wildlife: Engage in guided wildlife tours to discover the unique fauna of the Galápagos, including iconic species.
• Puerto Ayora: Explore the vibrant town, filled with local shops, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere.
• Charles Darwin Research Station: Visit this important scientific facility to learn about conservation efforts and species preservation.
• Adventure Activities: Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking in pristine waters.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz Island

Discover a variety of accommodations on Santa Cruz Island, perfect for adventurers, families, and business travelers alike. Choose from charming hotels, cozy lodges, and traditional guesthouses that cater to your vacation needs. Whether you prefer a main lodge experience, a hostal with ocean views, or a beachside rental, you'll find the perfect home base to explore the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife of the Galápagos.

• Hotel el descanso del Guia: This charming 3.5-star hotel offers a family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a cozy retreat. Located 11km from Santa Cruz Island, guests appreciate its inviting ambiance and spacious accommodations. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, the hotel features a variety of amenities for children, including an arcade game room, a shared playground, and a dedicated pool for kids. Business travelers will also find suitable facilities, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all visitors.
• Royal Palm Galapagos, Curio Collection Hotel by Hilton: A premium 4-star hotel, the Royal Palm Galapagos boasts a stunning guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. Situated 6km from Santa Cruz Island, this property is perfect for those seeking adventure and family-friendly experiences. Guests can enjoy various onsite activities such as hiking and biking, along with nearby snorkeling and fishing opportunities. The hotel also caters to younger travelers with amenities like highchairs and cribs, ensuring a comfortable stay for families.
• Twin Hotel Galapagos: This 3-star hotel, rated 8.4 out of 10, is a great option for adventurous families. Located 6km from Santa Cruz Island, Twin Hotel offers an array of thrilling activities, including hiking, snorkeling, and boat tours nearby. The property is designed with families in mind, featuring essential amenities such as babysitting services, window guards, and a first aid kit. With its focus on adventure and family experiences, Twin Hotel provides a welcoming environment for all guests.

Where to stay near Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos offers an unforgettable vacation experience filled with outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Explore the vibrant town of Puerto Ayora, visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, and relax on stunning beaches like Tortuga Bay. Nearby islands, such as Española and Floreana, provide additional opportunities for exploration and wildlife encounters. Discover the unique beauty of Santa Cruz Island, where every corner reveals the wonders of nature.

• Santa Fe Island: Located 37km from Santa Cruz Island, Santa Fe Island is a picturesque getaway known for its stunning outdoor scenery. This island attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel seasons occurring in January to February and April. Travelers flock here for its beautiful beaches, scenic cliffs, and tranquil rivers. Activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With its natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Santa Fe Island is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
• Bartolome Island: Situated 47km away from Santa Cruz Island, Bartolome Island is another stunning destination that features breathtaking landscapes. This island is particularly popular among tourists during January to February and September. Visitors come for the incredible outdoor experiences, pristine beaches, and stunning views of the archipelago and bay. Activities like hiking to the summit for panoramic views or lounging on the beach make Bartolome Island a fantastic spot for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike.
• Rabida Island: A bit further at 48km from Santa Cruz Island, Rabida Island is known for its dramatic landscapes and adventurous opportunities. Peak travel times include February, May, and July, drawing tourists eager to explore its marine parks and sandy beaches. Adventure activities such as kayaking and hiking are popular here, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty. The unique red sand beaches and diverse wildlife make Rabida Island an exciting and visually captivating destination.

Things to do in Santa Cruz Island

Shopping

Visit the bustling Mercado Municipal in Santa Cruz for local crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs. For a more modern shopping experience, check out the Mall El Dorado, which features a variety of shops, dining options, and entertainment, perfect for picking up gifts during your stay.

Recreation

Wellness retreat Galapagos Spa offers rejuvenating spa treatments amidst tranquil surroundings, allowing you to unwind fully. For recreational activities, visit Tortuga Bay, where you can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, and sunbathing on beautiful beaches, immersing yourself in the island’s stunning natural beauty.

Adventure

Explore the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you can learn about conservation efforts and see giant tortoises up close. For thrill-seekers, visit Tortuga Bay for kayaking and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by stunning landscapes and diverse marine life.

Nightlife

Santa Cruz Island offers a vibrant nightlife with venues like the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you can enjoy live music and local culture. The bustling town of Puerto Ayora features lively bars and restaurants, perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travelers under the stars.

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, February, or September. Booking your hotel about a month in advance can help you secure better rates, with Sundays being the least expensive days to stay. Utilize Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly options and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Look for last-minute deals, especially if you're booking close to your travel date, and sort prices from low to high for the best bargains.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Santa Cruz Island is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For the best prices and deals, make sure to sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay on Santa Cruz Island with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery, ideal for eco-conscious travelers. Explore captivating caves, diverse natural features, and picturesque nature reserves. Key attractions include the iconic Galápagos Islands and Isla Santa Cruz, where you can immerse yourself in the unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Don't miss the opportunity to engage with the island's rich natural beauty and thrilling outdoor activities.

• Los Gemelos Sinkholes: Located 6km from Santa Cruz Island, Los Gemelos Sinkholes offers a unique geological experience with deep craters surrounded by lush vegetation. These impressive sinkholes provide opportunities for birdwatching and a glimpse of the island's volcanic history.
• Rancho Primicias: Situated 11km away, Rancho Primicias features captivating caves that invite adventure seekers. Explore the trails and enjoy the thrill of discovering the natural beauty of the island while encountering diverse wildlife.
• Rancho El Manzanillo: This nature reserve, located 10km from Santa Cruz, emphasizes eco-friendly practices. Experience outdoor adventures amidst stunning landscapes, where you can marvel at the local flora and fauna while enjoying a sustainable environment.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz Island

The best time to visit Santa Cruz Island is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. September is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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 (24.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	73.8°F (23.2°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 (23.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz Island

Traveling to Santa Cruz Island is convenient via two main airports. Isla Baltra Airport (GPS) is approximately 23km away, with Hotel Galapagos White Stones located 13km from the airport, offering transportation services for a fee. Alternatively, San Cristobal Airport (SCY) is 85km away, with nearby hotels like Hotel Indigo Galapagos and La Zayapa Hotel, both 1km from the airport, providing nearby access. Additionally, José de Villamil Airport (IBB) is about 77km from Santa Cruz, with options such as Hotel Isamar Galapagos Beachfront and La Casa de Marita, both 2km away, offering various transportation services.