Day Tour to Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach with snorkeling and fishing

What is the Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach Tour?
This full-day adventure in the Galapagos takes you from Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island to the pristine waters and landscapes of Santa Fe Island, followed by a relaxing visit to Hidden Beach. For about 7 hours, you’ll snorkel alongside playful sea lions, spot marine turtles, sharks, eagle rays, and explore the island’s rugged beauty with a naturalist guide named Suzie (or others, depending on the day). The tour is designed for small groups — typically no more than 10 travelers — making it more personal and flexible than larger excursions.

A highlight is the crystal-clear waters in Santa Fe’s calm bay—perfect for snorkeling—and the chance to fish during the return trip, with a prepared lunch onboard. The tour costs about $199.23 per person and is usually booked around 25 days in advance, reflecting good demand for this popular experience.

We love the intimate group size, which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, as well as the variety of activities—snorkeling, wildlife viewing, beach time, and fishing—that cater to different interests.

A potential drawback might be the weather—rough seas or strong currents could affect the snorkeling or access to Hidden Beach, as some reviews note. Good planning and flexibility will help ensure a smooth experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love wildlife, want to snorkel with sea lions, and enjoy relaxing on beautiful beaches. It suits those who appreciate small-group excursions and are eager to see the genuine charm of the Galapagos’ marine and land life.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Max 10 people for a more personal experience.
• Wildlife Encounters: Swim with sea lions, sea turtles, and see various bird species.
• Snorkeling & Fishing: Equipment included, with opportunities for both activities.
• Stunning Scenery: Turquoise waters, lava rocks, cacti, and white sandy beaches.
• Authentic Experience: Guided by knowledgeable naturalists with a focus on local ecology.
• Flexible Activities: Options to relax, snorkel, explore, or fish based on your preferences.

Exploring the Day in Detail

Starting Out and Getting There

The tour kicks off at Guiding Galapagos Expeditions’ office in Puerto Ayora at 8:00 am. From there, a comfortable boat whisks you away to Santa Fe Island, a journey lasting roughly 45-55 minutes. Many reviews appreciate the boat ride, with some noting the crew’s skill in navigating choppy waters—“a smooth ride on a comfortable boat,” as one traveler put it.

The small-group nature means you’ll likely meet your fellow adventurers beforehand, and the crew’s professionalism shines through—“They send a text message beforehand,” noted a reviewer—making sure everyone’s prepared.

Arrival at Santa Fe Island

Once at Santa Fe, you’ll land in a calm bay with stunningly clear turquoise water—“like a natural swimming pool,” one guest described it. This is where the magic begins: snorkeling with sea lions. The young, playful pups love to swim up close, twirling and chasing snorkelers—“an absolutely unique experience,” according to reviews.

Expect to see sea turtles, reef sharks, eagle rays, and a colorful assortment of tropical fish. The underwater spectacle is one of the highlights, and with snorkel gear provided, you can spend as long as you like exploring.

We loved the close encounters with curious sea lions—“they love to get into the water with us,” which creates a lively, joyful atmosphere. The water’s calmness and visibility ensure a safe, exhilarating experience.

Wildlife on land and in the air

Beyond underwater, the island offers a variety of bird species. Travelers have spotted blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, mockingbirds, and occasionally the Galapagos hawk.

The landscape is created by dark lava rocks, cacti, and the white sands of the beach—an impressive contrast that photos don’t quite do justice to.

Lunch on the Boat

After your morning adventure, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared lunch onboard. Many reviews rave about the quality of the meal, often mentioning the tuna ceviche or other fresh seafood. Having a hot meal while floating on the water adds to the feeling of luxury and ease.

Hidden Beach: Nature’s Secluded Paradise

Post-lunch, the tour visits Hidden Beach, a magnificent white sand haven. Depending on weather conditions, you might get to step ashore or simply relax on the boat.

If the weather allows, you can take a discovery walk with your guide—looking for marine iguanas, pelicans, and mangroves. Several reviews describe this as a “beautiful” and “peaceful” spot, perfect for unwinding after snorkeling.

Some travelers, however, mention that rough waters might prevent landing at Hidden Beach, so flexibility is key.

Return Journey and Fishing

On the way back, there’s an opportunity to try fishing from the boat. Some guests have caught big fish, making this a fun chance to engage with Galapagos’ marine life in a different way.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price covers snorkel gear, wetsuits, towels, lunch, water, soda, and all fees and taxes. Tips are not included but are customary. Alcoholic drinks are also extra.

This setup provides great value considering the comprehensive activities, the small group size, and the quality of the experience.

Authenticity and Audience

This tour shines for animal lovers—especially those eager to swim with sea lions. It also suits families, thanks to the relaxed pace and friendly guides.

Travelers who appreciate well-organized trips with proper safety measures and personalized service will find this a top choice. On the flip side, those prone to seasickness should consider this before booking, as the boat ride, while generally smooth, can sometimes be choppy.

Final Thoughts

This Day Tour to Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach offers an authentic, well-rounded glimpse of the Galapagos. You’ll enjoy a blend of fantastic snorkeling, wildlife watching, and relaxing on beautiful beaches—all in a small-group setting that fosters connection and comfort.

The knowledgeable guides make a difference, sharing insights into the local ecology that enhance your appreciation of this unique environment. The stunning scenery combined with active snorkeling and a delicious onboard lunch make this a memorable day for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

While weather can sometimes influence the itinerary, most travelers leave with stories of playful sea lions, colorful fish, and serene beaches—truly a highlight of any Galapagos trip.

If you’re after an experience that balances wildlife encounters, relaxation, and small-group intimacy, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic moments and are ready to get their feet wet—literally—in the best the Galapagos has to offer.

FAQ

How long is the boat ride to Santa Fe Island?
The boat ride takes approximately 45-55 minutes, offering a comfortable journey with good views and a chance to relax before arriving.

What activities are included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy snorkeling with sea lions, wildlife viewing on land, and fishing from the boat during the return trip. A prepared lunch is also included.

Are snorkeling masks and wetsuits provided?
Yes, snorkel gear—including masks, fins, and wetsuits (short or long)—are provided and included in the price.

Can I see marine animals like sharks and turtles?
Absolutely. Guests frequently report seeing sea turtles, reef sharks, eagle rays, and a colorful array of tropical fish while snorkeling.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially those who enjoy outdoor activities and wildlife. The tour’s relaxed pace and small group size make it family-friendly.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunscreen, waterproof camera, and wet shoes if you want to explore the beaches. Wetsuits and towels are provided.

How many people are on the tour?
This is a small-group experience, typically with up to 10-12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

This Santa Fe Island and Hidden Beach tour offers a fine balance of adventure, wildlife, and scenic beauty—perfect for those wanting a genuine Galapagos experience with good value and expert guidance.