Bachas Beach
A pristine white-sand beach on Santa Cruz Island, famous for its flamingos, sea turtle nesting sites, and WWII history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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Bachas Beach
Best Time
Best wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine white-sand beach on Santa Cruz Island, famous for its flamingos, sea turtle nesting sites, and WWII history.
"Witness flamingos, marine iguanas, and sea turtles in a stunning Galapagos paradise with a touch of history."
🦩 Flamingo Spotting
Look for flamingos in the inland lagoon; they are most active during cooler parts of the day.
🐢 Turtle Nesting Info
Respect marked nesting areas and observe from a distance to protect vulnerable sea turtles.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Flamingo Lagoon
Inland lagoon
Spot vibrant flamingos gracefully feeding in the tranquil lagoon, a truly iconic Galapagos sight.
Sea Turtle Nesting Sites
Sandy shores
Witness the protected nesting grounds of sea turtles, a testament to the island's vital role in conservation.
Marine Iguana Gathering
Volcanic rocks and shore
Observe prehistoric-looking marine iguanas basking on the black volcanic rocks and foraging along the shore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Wildlife Sightings
Respect the Natural Habitat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦩 Flamingo Spotting
Look for flamingos in the inland lagoon; they are most active during cooler parts of the day.
🐢 Turtle Nesting Info
Respect marked nesting areas and observe from a distance to protect vulnerable sea turtles.
🦎 Iguana Views
Marine iguanas love to sunbathe on the black rocks – great photo ops!
🤿 Snorkeling Potential
Visibility can vary, but snorkeling can reveal sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish.
Itinerary help: anything major missing?
Tips
from all over the internet
🦩 Flamingo Spotting
Look for flamingos in the inland lagoon; they are most active during cooler parts of the day.
🐢 Turtle Nesting Info
Respect marked nesting areas and observe from a distance to protect vulnerable sea turtles.
🦎 Iguana Views
Marine iguanas love to sunbathe on the black rocks – great photo ops!
🤿 Snorkeling Potential
Visibility can vary, but snorkeling can reveal sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bachas Beach for its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife, particularly flamingos and marine iguanas. The historical significance of WWII barges adds a unique element. While snorkeling visibility can be inconsistent, the overall experience is highly rewarding for nature lovers and those on Galapagos cruises.
"This was our first stop on the 5D4N Galaxy Orion cruise. We had the beach to ourselves most of the time and got to learn about various wildlife on this beach. We also got to snorkel at the beach. Aside from the tropical fish, we also saw a sea turtle, a sting ray, and a sea lion. The visibility wasn’t the best as it was a bit sandy."
Cindy W
"Another beautiful spot to see more of the amazing Galapagos wildlife. On this beach is also the remains of a couple of ships/barges buried in the sand. Lots of crabs, iguanas, sea lions and if you are lucky you might even see a flamingo (so I'm told - did not see any the day we were there!)"
Paul Steele
"Came here in October 2017 as part of Guiding Galapagos tour. Our naturalist guide showed us the remains of the barges and explained that this beach was used by the US during WW2 to protect against Japanese attacks. We saw marine iguanas, flamingoes, blue footed boobies, herons, black necked stilts. We snorkeled here also, but unfortunately that day was very cloudy. However while I was swimming, a turtle was literally right next to me!"
Tracy Marotta
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bachas Beach is typically accessed as part of a guided tour or cruise itinerary in the Galapagos Islands. It's located on Santa Cruz Island and is a common stop for day trips and longer expeditions.
Independent visits to Bachas Beach are generally not possible as it's part of protected national park areas requiring guided tours. Most visitors arrive via cruise ships or organized day tours from Puerto Ayora.
The best way to experience Bachas Beach is through a guided tour that includes knowledgeable naturalists who can point out wildlife and explain the area's significance.
Yes, many boat tours and cruises operating in the Galapagos Islands include Bachas Beach as a destination. These tours often depart from Santa Cruz Island.
Pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. Reusable water bottles are also recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Bachas Beach is typically included in the cost of your Galapagos National Park entrance fee and any organized tour or cruise you book. There isn't a separate ticket for the beach itself.
As Bachas Beach is part of the Galapagos National Park, access is generally during daylight hours when tours are scheduled. There are no set 'opening hours' like a typical attraction.
The primary fee is the Galapagos National Park entrance fee, paid upon arrival in the Galapagos. Individual tours may have their own pricing.
It is highly recommended to book Galapagos tours, including those that visit Bachas Beach, well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Visitors must adhere to National Park regulations, which include not feeding wildlife, staying on designated paths, and not removing any natural elements.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of flamingos in the lagoon, marine iguanas on volcanic rocks, sea turtles (nesting or swimming), and the picturesque white sand beach.
Yes, wildlife is often quite accustomed to human presence, making it relatively easy to get close for photos, but always maintain a respectful distance.
A zoom lens is useful for wildlife, but a standard camera or smartphone can capture the beautiful landscapes and closer animal encounters. Waterproof protection is a good idea.
Drone usage is generally restricted within Galapagos National Park areas to protect wildlife and the environment. Check specific park regulations before flying.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography, and are also prime times for wildlife activity.
🎫 🤿 Onsite Experience
Expect to see flamingos, marine iguanas, sea lions, various shorebirds like black-necked stilts, and potentially sea turtles nesting or swimming.
Snorkeling is possible, and you might see tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. However, visibility can sometimes be affected by sand.
Facilities are minimal to preserve the natural environment. Most tours provide necessary amenities or advise visitors to use facilities before or after the visit.
The beach has remnants of World War II barges, which were used by the US military for protection against potential Japanese attacks.
Yes, swimming is generally permitted, but always be aware of currents and any wildlife in the water. Follow your guide's advice.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1It's important to emphasize the rules of the National Park to children: stay on paths, don't touch or feed animals, and take all trash with you. Guides are usually excellent at engaging children with interesting facts about the animals and the history of the beach, making it an educational and memorable experience for the whole family.
🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts
+1The snorkeling here, while sometimes having variable visibility, can still yield sightings of tropical fish, rays, and even sea turtles. The presence of various shorebirds adds another layer of interest for birdwatchers. The historical remnants also offer a unique context to the natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Wonders of Bachas Beach
Beyond the flamingos, the shores are a bustling hub for marine iguanas, the world's only sea-going lizards. They can be seen basking on the black volcanic rocks to regulate their body temperature or foraging for algae in the shallow waters. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, particularly during nesting season, as the beach is a crucial site for their reproduction. Observing these ancient creatures in their natural habitat is a profound experience.
Other notable inhabitants include various shorebirds, such as black-necked stilts and herons, which forage along the waterline. You might also encounter playful sea lions lounging on the sand or swimming offshore. The rich biodiversity makes Bachas Beach a must-visit for any nature enthusiast exploring the Galapagos.
Historical Echoes: WWII Remnants
While these historical artifacts might seem out of place in such a pristine natural setting, they add a unique layer to the visitor experience. Naturalist guides often share the stories behind these barges, explaining their role in the war effort and how they eventually came to rest on this remote beach. It's a fascinating intersection of natural beauty and human history, offering a different perspective on the islands' past.
Conservation and Responsible Tourism
Responsible tourism at Bachas Beach means being a mindful observer. Guides play a crucial role in educating visitors about the importance of conservation efforts and ensuring that interactions with wildlife are respectful and non-intrusive. By following these principles, visitors contribute to the ongoing preservation of this unique natural heritage for generations to come.
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