Hotels in Santa Cruz Island

Explore the Untamed Beauty of Santa Cruz Island: A Coastal Paradise Awaits

Santa Cruz Island, a gem of the Galápagos, beckons nature lovers and adventure seekers alike with its stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife. Explore the lush highlands, where giant tortoises roam freely, or relax on pristine beaches with breathtaking ocean views. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to learn about conservation efforts, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. With its unique blend of natural beauty and rich biodiversity, Santa Cruz Island offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of the Galápagos. A true paradise for those seeking adventure and tranquility in one remarkable destination.

Discover great hotels near Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island offers a range of hotel accommodations, from luxury resorts to cozy boutique options. You'll find popular hotels in Puerto Ayora, providing easy access to local attractions. Whether you prefer a star-rated hotel or a laid-back guesthouse, the island caters to various preferences and budgets. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers near Santa Cruz Island:

1. Royal Palm GalapagosOpens in a new window: This impressive 4.0-star hotel provides an exhilarating experience for adventure seekers and business travelers alike. With an abundance of adventure sports available, guests can indulge in activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and fishing, making every moment of their stay memorable. The hotel features well-equipped meeting rooms and a business center, ensuring a seamless experience for professionals. Travelers appreciate the combination of comfort and excitement, with many highlighting the hotel's ability to cater to those looking for a distinctive vacation experience in a stunning location.
2. Hotel Quinta MargaritaOpens in a new window: Hotel Quinta Margarita is a charming 2.5-star hotel perfect for leisure travelers seeking a cozy atmosphere. The property boasts a welcoming bar and lounge area, inviting guests to unwind after a day of exploring Santa Cruz Island. The hotel's relaxed setting is complemented by its friendly service and approachable ambiance, making it a favored choice for those looking to enjoy a laid-back getaway while immersing themselves in the local culture. Frequent travelers value this hotel for its simplicity and comfort, creating a delightful base for their adventures.
3. Semilla Verde Boutique HotelOpens in a new window: This delightful 3.5-star hotel is designed for families and adventure enthusiasts, offering a wide array of recreational activities. Guests can engage in kayaking, fishing, and snorkeling, ensuring a thrilling experience in the heart of nature. The hotel provides excellent amenities for children, such as a playground and a pool gate for safety, making it an ideal choice for families. Travelers appreciate the family-friendly vibe and the array of outdoor activities, making every stay a joyful and enriching experience for all ages.

Things to do near Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island is a paradise for nature lovers, boasting stunning beaches, lush forests, and dramatic mountains. Travelers can dive into vibrant underwater worlds, hike scenic trails, and embark on wildlife tours to encounter unique species. Whether you're snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or exploring serene parks, adventure awaits at every turn.

• El Garrapatero BeachOpens in a new window – Stretch out on the soft sands of El Garrapatero Beach, where the turquoise waters invite you for a refreshing swim. Enjoy a picnic under the shade of the lush vegetation or stroll along the shore, taking in the stunning natural beauty all around you.
• Los Gemelos SinkholesOpens in a new window – Visit the remarkable Los Gemelos Sinkholes, two massive volcanic craters surrounded by rich vegetation. Marvel at the unique geological formations and search for local wildlife, including giant tortoises and various bird species that call this area home.
• Playa de los AlemanesOpens in a new window – Head to Playa de los Alemanes, a serene beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The calm waters and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for families and those looking to relax while soaking up the sun and enjoying the picturesque views.
• MaleconOpens in a new window – Take a leisurely stroll along the Malecon, a vibrant jetty that offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. This lively area is perfect for people-watching, enjoying fresh seafood from local vendors, and capturing beautiful sunset photos.
• Las Ninfas LagoonOpens in a new window – Explore the tranquil Las Ninfas Lagoon, where you can kayak through serene waters surrounded by lush mangroves. This peaceful spot is great for birdwatching, as you may spot herons and other wildlife while enjoying the calming sounds of nature.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel near Santa Cruz Island

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Santa Cruz Island is during January, February, and September, when hotel prices are typically lower. For an enriching experience, staying for at least 3 to 4 days is recommended, allowing ample time to explore the island's historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy a variety of affordable activities such as wildlife tours, snorkeling, hiking, and savoring delicious seafood dining by the beach. This time frame provides great value for money, ensuring you make the most of your trip while on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Santa Cruz Island, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications can keep you informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window is a handy comparison tool available in the app that allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options before booking your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay near Santa Cruz Island hotels. If you're seeking a unique experience, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized touch and potentially better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is higher than usual, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates, which could help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or city centers can be convenient, but it often comes with a higher price tag. For more budget-friendly options, you might look into hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you want to visit. You may also want to consider independent hotels located a bit further out, as they usually tend to be more affordable and can offer a more authentic experience.
5. Become a Member: Join for free and make your next stay near Santa Cruz Island even more enjoyable! As a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. Plus, the more you stay, the faster you can climb the membership tiers, unlocking fantastic perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don't miss out on these great benefits—sign up today and start saving on your travels!

Best time to go to Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz Island has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. The peak travel months to visit Santa Cruz Island are January, February, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.