Santa Cruz Island
Country: Ecuador · Region: Galapagos Islands
Santa Cruz Island is the largest and most accessible island in Channel Islands National Park off Southern California, offering pristine beaches, rugged mountains, extensive hiking trails, and unique wildlife for day visitors and campers.
Top sights
Scorpion Bay, Painted Cave, island fox habitat, tidepools at Smugglers' Cove, historic ranches, island scrub jay viewing
Things to do
- Scorpion Bay
- The main landing area on Santa Cruz Island accessible by Island Packers ferry from Ventura in just over an hour.
- Painted Cave
- The fourth largest sea cave in the world located on Santa Cruz Island, typically visited on the ferry return from Santa Rosa Island.
- Smugglers' Cove
- A cove on Santa Cruz Island featuring tidepools accessible to day visitors.
Beaches
- Scorpion Bay beach
- Beach at the main ferry landing point on Santa Cruz Island offering access to island trails and activities.
Where to eat
- Island Packers ferry galley
- Limited food options available on the ferry during the crossing to and from the islands.
Getting around
On the islands there is no transportation besides walking or kayaking; no bikes or cars are available.
What to eat
There is no food sold on the islands, so pack all food needed and plan to pack out all trash; limited food options are available in the ferry galley.
Tips
Book ferry tickets several weeks in advance as they sell out; bring warm waterproof outerwear and sit on the top deck for best wildlife viewing.
Best for
Hiking, kayaking, snorkeling
More ports in Galapagos Islands
Bartolome Island · Fernandina Island · Floreana Island · Isabela Island · Santiago Island