The Galapagos Islands are a world-class destination for underwater wildlife lovers. And the best part? You don’t need to be a diver to experience it.
Snorkeling in the Galapagos lets you jump straight into nature’s front row—no oxygen tanks or deep dives required. You’ll swim in crystalline volcanic bays, explore surreal landscapes, and encounter some of the most curious marine creatures on Earth, up close and unafraid.
Expect playful sea lions, majestic turtles, graceful rays, tame reef sharks, and even penguins darting past like torpedoes.
So grab your snorkel, mask, and fins—it’s time to discover everything you need to know about Galapagos snorkeling: the best sites, the amazing animals, and expert tips to make your trip unforgettable.
The Galapagos Archipelago is packed with incredible snorkeling sites. Some are free and easy to access from town, others require a day tour or cruise. Here’s our breakdown:
These are easy-to-reach sites right from town, ideal for a spontaneous swim. Highlights: Large sea lion populations often lounge on the beach and glide playfully around you. Look closely and you might spot Galapagos penguins on the nearby rocks or darting through the water.
Tip: Keep an eye out for small boats coming and going from the pier.
A calm bay with clear waters and frequent visits from green sea turtles and sea lions. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Expect sea lions to get close they’re known to follow snorkelers around like curious puppies.
One of the most iconic snorkeling sites in Galapagos. Swim through a narrow channel between towering volcanic rocks.
Wildlife: White-tipped reef sharks, Galapagos sharks, eagle rays, sea turtles, schools of fish, and sea lions.
Note: Currents can be strong—best for confident snorkelers.
A series of lava tunnels and natural bridges submerged in shallow water. A top highlight of many travelers’ trips.
Marine life: Sea horses, reef sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and countless tropical fish. Calm waters make it perfect for beginners and families.
A picture-perfect beach for gentle snorkeling. You might spot penguins, turtles, and sea lions relaxing nearby. The beach is sheltered, with smooth entry for beginners.
This tour blends land and sea adventures. Underwater, you’ll likely spot sleeping reef sharks, stingrays, angelfish, parrotfish, and more.
The best place to snorkel with marine iguanas. Watch them dive for algae, propelled by long tails. You’ll also see flightless cormorants, sea turtles, and occasionally penguins.
An eroded volcanic crater teeming with life. Expect moray eels, scorpionfish, snapper, rays, and wrasse. Note: The currents are strong—recommended for experienced snorkelers only.
A protected cove where juvenile sea lions love to play. You might also see penguins, reef sharks, and green sea turtles feeding on algae.
Shallow waters carpeted with algae, attracting marine iguanas, penguins, and cormorants.
A remote northern site inside a submerged crater. You may see hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and a rich variety of tropical reef fish.
Green Sea Turtles
Common and easy to follow, they glide gracefully through the water and surface often for air.
Sea Lions
Charming and playful. They often approach snorkelers, spinning and blowing bubbles. You’ll likely see them in groups.
Marine Iguanas
Only found in Galapagos, these swimming reptiles dive for algae. Watching one cruise past underwater is unforgettable.
Galapagos Penguins
Small and fast they dart around like underwater missiles. Most often seen at Bartholome, Isabela, and Santiago.
Reef Sharks & Galapagos Sharks
Non aggressive and typically disinterested in humans. Glide silently below you in deeper water.
Sea Horses
Small but magical—best found at Los Tuneles. They grow up to 30 cm and are often spotted clinging to coral.
Tropical Fish
Over 450 species inhabit the Galapagos, including rays, eels, groupers, and vibrant reef fish—many found nowhere else on Earth.
Before You Go
Understand Water Conditions
Snorkeling Safety Tips
What to Wear
Sites like Las Tijeretas, Santa Fe, and Los Tuneles are ideal for first-timers. Let kids adjust at their own pace.
Make sure fins are snug, wetsuits are warm enough, and masks seal properly. Do a trial run before the activity starts.
Bright, inflatable floaties or kid-sized life jackets increase safety and confidence—ask your tour operator in advance.
Children cool down faster than adults, and the excitement of snorkeling burns lots of energy.
Invent underwater hand signals. Keep a journal of fish sightings. Take photos with a waterproof camera and relive the adventure later.
Dive into a Wild, Underwater World
Snorkeling in the Galapagos is not just an activity it’s a life changing experience. Where else can you drift with sea lions, glide over reef sharks, or watch a marine iguana feed in the depths? Whether you’re snorkeling off a white sand beach, floating above a crater, or chasing penguins through lava tunnels, Galapagos offers something truly extraordinary beneath the surface.
Ready to plan your snorkeling adventure?
Get in touch for a free quote or personalized tour advice—we’ll help you make your Galapagos dream a reality.
Thomas de Berlanga sector s/n in front of Santa Cruz Garden, Puerto Ayora
Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
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