With a coveted beach side setting on Santa Cruz Island, this stunning hotel is located in the heart of the Galapagos archipelago.
A member of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, this expedition hotel provides a base from which to explore the islands on land and by sea. Guests can expect intimate contact with wildlife as the property is surrounded by a protected national park whose feathered and scaly residents like to drop in from time to time.
The hotel accommodates guests in 21 guestrooms and 6 suites that were created by top Ecuadorian designer Julio Vinueza. The rooms use neutral colours and feature crisp bed linens, air-conditioning, ensuite bathrooms and shared porches or balconies with their own hammocks.
There are a host of onsite activities to enjoy as well as self-guided and guided excursions. Finch Bay is within walking distance of the renowned Charles Darwin Research Station (15 minutes away). Or to see giant tortoises in the wild at El Chato Tortoise Reserve you can take a tour to the Santa Cruz highlands where other highlights include the Gemelos (twin) pit craters and lava tubes. Tortuga Bay Beach is a 45 to 60 minute walk from the hotel, while Las Grietas, one of the island’s top snorkelling spots, is just a short stroll away. The hotel offers guests complimentary snorkel gear, and has kayaks available at extra cost.
Finch Bay Hotel also has its own exclusive yacht – the Sea Lion – one of just 12 in the islands that offer day tours. Join naturalist guides onboard and visit nearby Bartolome or South Plaza islands and explore each in-depth, searching for iconic species such as the blue-footed booby, marine iguana and the Galapagos penguin. Cruises take a maximum of just 20 guests and operate on select days only, so pre-booking is essential.
When not out exploring, guest can relax around the beautiful onsite pool. Centrally located, the pool is flanked by sun lounges, undercover seating and a bar – perfect for enjoying a refreshing cocktail. Alternatively, if in need of some rest and recuperation, the day spa is hidden close to the beachfront and offers a wealth of rejuvenating treatments to choose from. There is also a small gym and yoga room.
Finch Bay’s onsite open-air restaurant, headed by Executive Chef Andrés Orlando offers signature Galapagos-style cuisine, with inspiration coming from the surrounding archipelago. As many ingredients as possible are sourced locally – including from the onsite vegetable garden – and the restaurant creates an extraordinary culinary experience. Importantly, the restaurant can cater for all dietary preferences from vegan to celiac.
Highlights
- Discover the magic of the Galapagos Islands from a beautiful expedition hotel
- Finch Bay is one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World
- Exclusive beachfront accommodation in the heart of the Galapagos Archipelago
- Make the most of complimentary snorkelling equipment
- Activities including kayaking, cycling and self-guided or guided walks
- Within walking distance to natural attractions plus the Charles Darwin Research Centre
- Delicious “Galapagos inspired” meals at the onsite restaurant
- Beautiful central pool, lounge and bar overlooking the ocean
- Explore surrounding islands on the Sea Lion yacht
Activities
- Complimentary snorkelling equipment – check out nearby Las Grietas – one of the island’s best spots
- Walking distance to Charles Darwin Research Station and beautiful Tortuga Bay Beach
- Explore some of the surrounding islands on the Sea Lion yacht*
- Mountain bikes and kayaks available for hire*
- Swim in the beautiful pool or on the white-sand beach a stone’s throw from the hotel
- Visit the Santa Cruz highlands to see giant tortoises, craters and lava tunnels*
* Excursions at extra cost
Getting there
There are daily flights from Ecuador’s two biggest cities – Quito and Guayaquil – to Baltra Island, just off Santa Cruz Island, and to Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristóbal Island.
US – Ecuador is very easy to fly to from the United States. There are plenty of direct flights to either Quito or Guayaquil from a number of US cities. Airlines that fly between the countries include United Airlines, American Airlines and Latam Airlines.
UK/Europe – There are a number of countries that operate direct flights into Ecuador from Europe including France and the Netherlands. Alternatively Latam fly to European countries such as Germany and Spain.
Be Inspired
Recommended
Luxury Lodges in the Galapagos
Finch Bay Hotel
Located on the south side of Santa Cruz Island, this stunning hotel is positioned in the heart of the Galapagos archipelago.
Pikaia Lodge
Perched on the edge of an extinct volcano this remarkable lodge boasts some of the most spectacular views in the Galapagos Islands
Recommended
Best cruises in the Galapagos
Below are some of our suggested Galapagos Islands cruises that all feature small ships or yachts allowing for a more intimate and personalised sightseeing experience. Choose from one of our featured itineraries or let us custom design a tour to suit your interests, style and budget. To find out more about the type of Galapagos Islands cruises we can put together, please contact us to speak to a consultant today.
Galapagos Extravaganza
This 15 day/14 night itinerary combines the very best of the southern, north and central islands exploring Floreana, Espanola, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, South Plaza and North Seymour islands.
Legendary Galapagos – Beaches & Bays
This 7-night itinerary combines the very best of the southern and central islands exploring Floreana, Espanola, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, South Plaza and North Seymour islands.
Legendary Galapagos – Volcanic Wonders
This 7-night itinerary combines the best of the northern and central islands including Genovesa, Santa Cruz, Isabela, Rabida and Fernandina islands.
Ecuador Overview
What is the best thing to do in Ecuador?
Ecuador offers an incredible array of experiences within its borders; from heritage-rich colonial cities and luxurious rainforest lodges to opulent Amazon River cruises and exciting rail journey’s – there is something for everyone to enjoy. Most compelling of all is the wild beauty and unique fauna of the Galapagos Islands.
Ecuador Culture
From Amazonian frontier towns and Pacific fishing villages, to colonial cities and country markets, Ecuador is a blend of a many cultures. The country is famous for its excellent handicrafts, whilst Afro-Ecuadorians are known for marimba, a lively form of traditional music and dance.
What can I combine Ecuador with?
Mainland Ecuador can be easily combined with a cruise through the beautiful Galapagos Islands, located just under 1000 kilometres off the coast. Neighbouring Peru is the other county most easily (and best) to combine with Ecuador. Top highlights include Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and historic Cusco.
How do you get to Ecuador?
Ecuador’s capital Quito, and the country’s largest city Guayaquil, are the major hubs for flights into the country. Both cities are serviced by a number of airlines directly such as KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, American Airlines, Air France and United. Latam Airlines (primarily based in Santiago, Chile), is the major airline in South America and offers direct flights to number of US and European cities. The Galapagos Islands are a 2 hour flight from Quito or 1.5 hour flight from Guayaquil.
US – Ecuador is very easy to fly to from the United States. There are plenty of direct flights to either Quito or Guayaquil from a number of US cities. Airlines that fly between the countries include United Airlines, American Airlines and Latam Airlines.
Europe – There are a number of countries that operate direct flights into Ecuador from Europe including France and the Netherlands. Alternatively Latam fly to European countries such as Germany and Spain.