Concha de Perla
A free, natural lagoon in a mangrove forest perfect for snorkeling with playful sea lions and diverse marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calmer waters & wildlife
Concha de Perla
Best Time
Calmer waters & wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, natural lagoon in a mangrove forest perfect for snorkeling with playful sea lions and diverse marine life.
"Had better snorkelling here than some of the tours we did!"
Bring your own gear
Rent snorkel gear in town for a lower cost than at the entrance.
Swim left for safety
Avoid strong currents on the right; swim left and around buoys for a safer experience.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 1,300 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Playful Sea Lions
Mangrove lagoon
Young sea lions often swim and play with snorkelers, creating unforgettable, interactive wildlife moments.
Diverse Marine Life
Snorkeling area
Encounter sea turtles, various fish species, pufferfish, and even blacktip reef sharks in this vibrant underwater ecosystem.
Mangrove Snorkeling
Entrance to the lagoon
Experience unique snorkeling within a protected mangrove forest, offering a different perspective on marine habitats.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Wildlife Encounters
Navigate the Currents Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring your own gear
Rent snorkel gear in town for a lower cost than at the entrance.
Swim left for safety
Avoid strong currents on the right; swim left and around buoys for a safer experience.
Early bird gets wildlife
Visit early for a chance to see swimming sea lions and turtles.
Embrace the murkiness
Water can be chilly and murky, but still offers great sightings.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring your own gear
Rent snorkel gear in town for a lower cost than at the entrance.
Swim left for safety
Avoid strong currents on the right; swim left and around buoys for a safer experience.
Early bird gets wildlife
Visit early for a chance to see swimming sea lions and turtles.
Embrace the murkiness
Water can be chilly and murky, but still offers great sightings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Concha de Perla is a highly recommended, free snorkeling spot offering incredible wildlife encounters, especially with playful sea lions. While water visibility can vary and currents can be strong on one side, most visitors find the experience rewarding and often better than paid tours.
"Had better snorkelling here than some of the tours we did! :) went twice - once was awful visibility but still lots of fish
If you have ur own snorkel u may as well. Current can be quite strong on the right side but you get in by the steps and swim left, around the buoys at the front and then back again and it’s quite good. To the right I would only go if you’re a strong swimmer (that’s where I saw a HUGE ray!🫶) as the current can be quite strong and some other people were struggling to swim back"
Ames B
"The water was murky and chilly, but I still had a great time! Snorkel gear rental right at entrance, $8 for set. Sea lions competing with tourists for the bench seat. Saw lots of fish and a very large ray!"
d fairch
"We hired snorkelling masks for next to nothing in town and then walked to the lagoon. The water was crystal clear which allowed us to see lots of aquatic life, but the highlight was the young sea lions playing with us in the water!"
Benjamin Moye
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Concha de Perla is a short walk from Puerto Ayora on Isabela Island. Head towards the pier and follow the path along the coast. It's a free spot to access.
There is no dedicated parking as it's a natural lagoon accessible by foot. You'll likely walk from your accommodation in Puerto Ayora.
While taxis are available in Puerto Ayora, it's a very short and pleasant walk, so most visitors opt to walk.
You enter the water via steps. For the best experience, swim left and around the buoys, rather than directly to the right where currents can be stronger.
The path to Concha de Perla is generally flat and suitable for walking. Cycling is also an option for part of the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Concha de Perla is a free natural attraction. You don't need to purchase an entrance ticket.
As a natural lagoon, Concha de Perla doesn't have official opening hours. It's accessible during daylight hours. Visiting early morning is recommended for wildlife.
The entry to Concha de Perla is free. However, you can rent snorkel gear for around $8 USD if you don't bring your own.
Yes, snorkel gear rental is available right at the entrance to Concha de Perla for approximately $8.
No guided tours are required. You can explore and snorkel independently. Some visitors find it better than paid tours.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can see sea turtles, various fish species, pufferfish, blacktip reef sharks, and marine iguanas. Sea lions are also very common and playful.
Yes, it's a popular spot for snorkeling, offering a chance to see diverse marine life in a mangrove setting. Visibility can vary.
Currents can be strong, especially on the right side. It's advised to swim left and around buoys for a safer experience.
Wear a swimsuit and consider a rash guard for sun protection. Water shoes can be helpful for entering and exiting.
Yes, sea lions are often present and may swim and play with snorkelers. It's a highlight for many visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture playful sea lions, colorful fish, sea turtles, and the unique mangrove environment. Early morning light is ideal.
Use a waterproof camera or a waterproof case for your phone if you plan to take photos while snorkeling.
Expect shots of marine life like pufferfish, sharks, and turtles, as well as interactions with sea lions.
There are no specific restrictions on photography, but always be respectful of wildlife and other visitors.
Early morning offers softer light and potentially more active wildlife, making it ideal for photography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit