Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

An ideal alternative to the Galapagos cruise or the perfect retreat for a few relaxing nights at the end of one. The Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, as its name implies, sits on the edge of a small bay next to the main harbour in Santa Cruz. It can only be reached by boat - a handy water taxi whizzes guests to and fro - and is the only beach front hotel on the island. As such, the hotel is poised to offer complete immersion in one of the most extraordinary wildlife sanctuaries on earth. The hotel is stylishly designed, full of whites and wicker, and is comprised of low rise, modern buildings, centred round a large airy lounge, and lovely swimming pool. The view of the beach is perfect, dotted with passing frigate birds and finches, lava lizards and, of course, iguanas. 27 rooms in total, some have ocean views and others are set further back. Although rooms are on the small side, they are comfortable and bright, with tiled bathrooms full of eco-friendly amenities. The restaurant is elegantly decorated but with a pleasantly informal atmosphere. The menu is extensive and many of the dishes are Galapagos-inspired using ingredients sourced from the hotel’s organic vegetable garden. The breakfast buffet is top-notch. Finch Bay offers a range of day trips on its own yacht to other parts of Santa Cruz as well as other nearby islands. Activities such as kayaking and snorkelling are easily arranged, nothing is too tricky for the staff here, do take advantage.