Ecuador & the Galapagos
Finch Bay, Galapagos
A base for both wild explorations and beachside rejuvenation, Finch Bay offers an all-encompassing Galapagos experience. Discovery extends in all directions with the option to strike out both on land and on sea. Expert naturalist guides accompany you whichever way to craft tailored experiences that make the most of this environment. Back at Finch Bay, relax by the pool, unwind in the spa or step straight out onto the beach. Come evening, the restaurant serves up a menu representative of the archipelago’s rich bounty in a setting framed by star-filled skies.
Location
On the centrally located island of Santa Cruz, Finch Bay is perfect as part of both a longer island hopping adventure or for day trips out to other islands. The eco-led hotel sits on the island’s south coast, just outside the town of Puerto Ayora, with its own private dock and direct beach access. To get here, there are a few options. If arriving post-cruise, we can arrange for you to disembark directly at the hotel. Or, if traveling from the mainland, you’ll fly into neighboring Baltra before a quick boat across the channel and a leisurely drive through Santa Cruz’s highlands. The whole journey should take no more than 45 minutes.
Your Room
The 27 rooms at Finch Bay fan out across the beachfront and are connected by meandering walkways through tropical gardens. Inside, the decor is led by natural materials and island-inspired details whilst private balconies are strung up with hammocks and the promise of relaxation. We loved the suites, with their elevated position opening up onto uninterrupted ocean views.
Why we like it
There is never a dull moment in the Galapagos, nor at Finch Bay. Surrounded by a protected natural park, wild encounters are guaranteed – whether feathered, scaled or otherwise. Day break is heralded by the darting of yellow warblers through the mangroves, whilst the afternoon may see you travel up into the highlands to the giant tortoise reserve. Bring it all into context at the Charles Darwin Research Center, just a 15-minute walk away. Elsewhere, there’s hiking, biking and kayaking to keep you busy as well as snorkelling onboard the hotel’s private yacht.