Finch Bay Hotel

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.