The Best Hotels in Galapagos

Our Favourite Stays

If you are short on time, these three are my picks, one for each island: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel on Santa Cruz, Golden Bay Galapagos Hotel on San Cristobal and Casa Baronesa on Isabela. They come from research, not from stays of my own. Comfort and budget options are in each island’s section.

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

Santa Cruz Island

• Luxury Beachfront
• Pool & Fitness
• Wildlife & Water Activities

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel is on Punta Estrada, across the bay from Puerto Ayora, a short walk and water taxi ride from the main dock. Rooms have air conditioning and a private bathroom, and some have a balcony with sea views. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center and a hot tub. The restaurant serves French, Italian and Mediterranean food, with vegetarian, vegan and dairy-free options, and breakfast is a buffet. Playa de Los Alemanes and Las Grietas are close by, and activities include snorkeling, kayaking, cycling and guided wildlife tours. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. The hotel also sells all-inclusive tour packages. At 605$ for two it costs the same as Villa Escalesia and is rated 9.0, lower than Villa Escalesia (9.7). Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Golden Bay Galapagos Hotel

San Cristobal Island

Golden Bay Galapagos Hotel is on Playa de Oro (Golden Beach), facing the sea, and has 19 rooms. The listing says guests can see sea lions and blue-footed boobies from the hotel.

The hotel describes its style as “Luxury without Ostentation”. At 415$ for two it is rated 9.0. Book at Booking.com Book at Expedia

Casa Baronesa Waterfront Villa

Isabela Island

• Private & Scenic
• Fully Equipped Kitchen & BBQ
• Cycling & Outdoor Fun

Casa Baronesa is a waterfront villa in Puerto Villamil, a few steps from Puerto Villamil Beach, with a garden, free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen and a balcony with sea views. It has four air-conditioned bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen. Amenities include a hot tub, a high chair, an indoor fireplace and an outdoor BBQ grill, and there are cycling routes nearby. At 718$ for two it is the most expensive stay in the Isabela list, with a 9.8 rating. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Where to Stay in Galapagos

There are three main islands to stay on: Santa Cruz, San Cristobal and Isabela.

Santa Cruz has the most tourist infrastructure and the town of Puerto Ayora, with bars, cafés and restaurants.

Isabela has a long white sand beach in front of Puerto Villamil and volcanic landscapes around it.

San Cristobal has the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, with a waterfront malecón and beaches close to town. Each island has a different feel, so choose by what you want to do. If you are still deciding which island or town to base yourself in, read my where to stay in the Galapagos guide first.

Santa Cruz Island

Santa Cruz is the second largest island in the Galapagos and the one with the most tourist infrastructure, and most hotels are in the town of Puerto Ayora.

I picked these hotels by location, what each property offers and guest ratings, rather than from stays of my own.

Where to Stay on the Island

Most hotels are in Puerto Ayora, where there are three main areas: the Main Malecon, the residential areas and the beachfront. A fourth option is the highlands of the island, in giant tortoise territory.

The Main Malecon is the busiest part of Puerto Ayora, with waterfront restaurants, bars and boutiques.

The residential areas are away from busy Charles Darwin Avenue.

For a beachfront stay, Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel is across Academy Bay, on Punta Estrada, with its own beach. Getting to Puerto Ayora takes a short walk and a water taxi.

In the highlands, the options include Pikaia Lodge, Galapagos Safari Camp, Royal Palm Galapagos and Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel, in green highland forest and giant tortoise territory. For more places to stay on the island, read my best hotels in Santa Cruz guide.

What to do on the Island

Since you’re looking for the best hotels in Galapagos, I thought I’d mention that I have some other articles that you might find helpful. I’ve put together guides on the top activities to do in Santa Cruz Island, like scuba diving, snorkeling, land-based tours, free activities, the best beaches, and more. These resources can help you plan your stay and make the most of your time on this beautiful island!

15 Free Things to do in Santa Cruz, 10 Awesome Tours in Santa Cruz, 14 Best Snorkeling Spots in Santa Cruz, 9 Best Dive Sites in Santa Cruz, 35 Awesome Things to do in Santa Cruz, 5 Best Beaches in Santa Cruz

All-Inclusive Experiences

The lodges below are an extra category in this article. They are not on Booking.com and similar sites, so you need to contact the companies directly using the links below.

Both are in the highlands: Pikaia Lodge, an eco-lodge, and Galapagos Safari Camp, a safari-style camp with tents.

Pikaia Lodge

(Luxury Eco-Adventure)

Pikaia Lodge is an eco-lodge in the highlands of Santa Cruz, built on two extinct volcanic craters inside its own private giant tortoise reserve. It is designed to offer comfort within the limits of a remote, eco-sensitive location.

Instead of a cruise, guests stay on land and take daily excursions and full-day yacht trips, without the seasickness. The lodge describes itself as one of the most advanced green lodges in the world.

Terrace rooms and balcony rooms look toward the ocean and the extinct volcanic mountains. Each room has a large bathroom, biodegradable toiletries and a safe. The lodge suits families with children who want to learn about biology and conservation. For reservations contact them here:

Galapagos Safari Camp

(Luxury Galapagos Camping)

Galapagos Safari Camp is on a 55-hectare farm in the highlands of Santa Cruz, bordering the Galapagos National Park. It has nine safari-style tents, a family suite, a lodge, a pool and a viewpoint.

Meals are Ecuadorian food made with local ingredients, served on the veranda or at a long hardwood table, and the kitchen handles vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian and gluten-free diets. The all-inclusive stay includes a four-course tasting menu each night and a South American wine list.

There is a plunge pool and a rustic viewpoint for sunsets, with tapas and snacks. The camp offers classic, family and pre- or post-cruise safaris. For reservations contact them here:

Price Comparison

Rooms for two people in USD

Luxury Resorts

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel

★★★★★ Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel is on Punta Estrada, across the bay from Puerto Ayora, a short walk and water taxi ride from the main dock. Rooms have air conditioning and a private bathroom, and some have a balcony with sea views. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center and a hot tub. The restaurant serves French, Italian and Mediterranean food, with vegetarian, vegan and dairy-free options, and breakfast is a buffet. Playa de Los Alemanes and Las Grietas are close by, and activities include snorkeling, kayaking, cycling and guided wildlife tours. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. The hotel also sells all-inclusive tour packages. At 605$ for two it costs the same as Villa Escalesia and is rated 9.0, lower than Villa Escalesia (9.7). Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Finch Bay Hotel | Source: Booking.com

Finch Bay Hotel | Source: Booking.com

Villa Escalesia

★★★★★ Villa Escalesia is a beachfront property in Puerto Ayora, with gardens. Air-conditioned rooms have free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms and flat-screen TVs, and some have sea views. There is a shared kitchen, a hot tub and a terrace, and an American breakfast is served daily.

It can be rented as a private home for up to 15 guests in 6 bedrooms, 4 with ocean views and 2 with garden views.

The swimming pool, jacuzzi, kitchen and living room are shared by guests, and the hotel organizes guided tours on foot or by sea. At 605$ for two it has the highest rating among the luxury hotels here (9.7). Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Hotel Angermeyer Waterfront Inn

★★★★★ Hotel Angermeyer Waterfront Inn is on Angermeyer Point, across the harbor from Puerto Ayora, in a building made of lava stone and driftwood. The town is a two-minute water taxi ride away. Rooms have large windows facing the sea, tiled floors and beamed ceilings with fans, and some have spa baths.

Breakfast includes fresh juices, and the restaurant serves regional and international dishes on a patio or water deck. There is a bar with a fireplace. Rooms have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, minibars and balconies or terraces, and the hotel books guided tours and offers laundry and airport transfers. Room types are standard rooms, superior rooms with waterfront views, and suites with ocean-view balconies. At 350$ for two it is rated 8.8. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Ikala Hotel

★★★★★ Ikala Galapagos Hotel has gardens, 15 suites, 6 standard rooms and 1 duplex suite. There is an open-air pool, La Terraza Restaurant & Bar and free bicycles.

The hotel is in the center of Puerto Ayora, close to restaurants, shops and bars.

It uses energy-efficient design, rainwater collection, water treatment and recycling, and supports the Galapagos Special Education Center. At 343$ for two it is rated 9.3, the second highest among the luxury hotels here. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Blu Galapagos Sustainable Waterfront Lodge

★★★★★ Blu Galapagos Sustainable Waterfront Lodge is on Avenida Charles Darwin in Puerto Ayora, on the waterfront, a 7-minute walk from the Charles Darwin Research Station. Rooms have neutral decor, blackout curtains, linens and air conditioning, and the suites have balconies with hammocks and ocean views.

There is a bar and a restaurant serving local food, next to the mangroves. Room types are Suites, Superior rooms and Standard rooms.

At 320$ for two it is rated 8.5. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Royal Palm Galapagos Curio Collection by Hilton

★★★★★ Royal Palm Galapagos, Curio Collection by Hilton, is the first Hilton property in the Galapagos. It is in the Miconia Highland Forests next to the Galapagos National Park on Santa Cruz, about 25 minutes from Puerto Ayora.

Accommodation is in eight casitas and Highland Villas with open fireplaces, Executive Villas with private gardens, and the Royal Suite, which has two en-suite bedrooms, a private garden and a living and dining room with a fireplace. The hotel says it operates sustainably.

At 302$ for two it is the cheapest of the luxury hotels here, with a 7.7 rating, the lowest in the group. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Comfort - Standard Hotels

Hotel Cucuve

Hotel Cucuve is a Swiss-Ecuadorian hotel in Puerto Ayora that focuses on conservation and sustainability. The listing calls it one of the first hotels on the islands.

It offers free refreshments, local activity information, beach towels and smoke-free rooms. Premium rooms have cedrela wood furniture and a balcony with a hammock, superior rooms have natural light, and standard rooms are large enough for families or groups.

At 256$ for two it is the most expensive of the comfort hotels here, with a 9.6 rating, the highest in the group. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel

Semilla Verde Boutique Hotel is in the highlands, on twelve acres of private forest where guests can see giant tortoises and birds. It says it offers family-style service and home cooking.

Hotel and tour packages include accommodation, full-day boat tours to outlying islands, half-day guided tours and self-guided activities. There are nine en-suite bedrooms with balconies or terraces, a yoga studio, a swimming pool, a fitness studio and nature trails. At 244$ for two it is rated 9.2. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Bay View House

Bay View House has private apartments for short or long stays, one block from the main dock in Puerto Ayora.

Apartments A and B have air conditioning, cable TV and hot water. Apartment A sleeps 2 to 3 and has a private balcony facing the street, and Apartment B suits larger groups, with two queen beds and a double sofa bed. There is free Wi-Fi, a sun terrace and a smoke-free environment. At 219$ for two it is rated 9.1. Book at Booking.com

Hotel Acacia

Hotel Acacia is in Puerto Ayora, with a garden, a shared lounge, a terrace, a hot tub and a concierge service.

Rooms have air conditioning, a wardrobe and a private bathroom with toiletries, and free Wi-Fi, and some have sea views.

Breakfast is continental, Full English/Irish or American, and the bar serves drinks. The hotel sells all-inclusive tour packages such as island hopping, island stays and scuba diving. At 205$ for two it is rated 9.4, the second highest among the comfort hotels here. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Hotel La Isla

Hotel La Isla has a restaurant area, a coffee and tea station open all day, cable TV and air conditioning.

It is in the Pelikan Bay neighborhood, 20 meters from Charles Darwin Avenue, in the most commercial part of Puerto Ayora. It has 5 king-size rooms, 3 of which can be made into twin rooms. Services include Wi-Fi, room service, hot water and cable TV, and the hotel coordinates tours and transfers. At 187$ for two it is the cheapest of the comfort hotels here, with a 9.0 rating, the lowest in the group. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Hotel Las Ninfas

Hotel Las Ninfas is one block from the main pier, the park and the boardwalk, near supermarkets, ATMs, banks and restaurants. It has an outdoor pool, a heated jacuzzi, a garden, a bar and free bicycles.

Suites have a private bathroom, hot water, air conditioning, Wi-Fi and TV. Standard Suites look onto the gardens, Deluxe Suites have a balcony over the pool, and the Apart Suite Dock House has four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a living room, a kitchen, a jacuzzi, a solarium and gardens. At 157$ for two it is the most expensive of the standard hotels here, rated 9.0. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Galapagos Suites B&B

Hotel Galapagos Suites is a family-run B&B managed by its owners, with six rooms with private bathrooms and air conditioning. Breakfast uses local and organic products, and the hotel uses recycling, biodegradable products and energy-saving practices.

The owner has worked in tourism in the Galapagos for over two decades, and her daughter is a certified Naturalist Guide. The hotel is in a residential neighborhood two blocks from the waterfront, within walking distance of restaurants, souvenir shops and attractions. At 127$ for two it has the highest rating among the standard hotels here (9.6). Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

La K-Leta Boutique Guesthouse

La K-Leta Boutique Guesthouse is close to the Charles Darwin Research Station and the Puerto Ayora malecón. The rooms are stylishly decorated.

Breakfast is served in the room or in the on-site dining area, and the guesthouse offers diving, hiking and cycling. At 84$ for two it is rated 9.4. Book at Booking.com

Casa del Lago Lodging House

Casa del Lago Lodging House is two blocks from the main dock and close to Tortuga Bay beach, with green gardens and private outside terraces.

It started as a cultural center for the Santa Cruz community in 2001 and became a hotel in 2007. It has five furnished suites built and decorated with recyclable materials, each with solar panels for hot water, a fully equipped kitchen, biodegradable toiletries, a smart TV, air conditioning and a safe.

The honeymooner suite is 25 square meters, with a private terrace and a view of Nymphs Lagoon. The other suites are the Ninfas Suite, the Tortuga Suite, the Cucuve Suite and the Media Luna Suite. At 83$ for two it is rated 8.6, the lowest rating among the standard hotels here. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Posada del Mar

Hostal Posada del Mar is in Puerto Ayora, with 15 rooms over three floors, near tour offices, restaurants and souvenir shops.

Room types are Standard Simple, Double or Matrimonial, Superior Triple, Matrimonial, Junior Suite and Suite, all with balconies. Smoking is not allowed inside, and a lift for heavy luggage is available. At 72$ for two it is the cheapest of the standard hotels here, rated 9.3. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Budget Hotels

Maytenus Galapagos

Hostal Maytenus Galapagos is a family-run guesthouse whose hosts have lived on the islands for over 30 years and work in conservation.

Accommodation includes a two-story apartment and standard apartments for families of up to five, and a ground-floor apartment for couples or solo travelers, with energy-efficient lighting, water dispensers and biodegradable cleaning products.

The hosts recycle waste and use rainwater for the gardens, which have native and endemic plants. At 66$ for two it is the most expensive of the budget hotels here, rated 9.2. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Suites Hermosas

Suites Hermosas is in Puerto Ayora, next to the entrance of the Tortuga Bay hike. It has two fully furnished apartments with air conditioning and a balcony.

Each apartment has a terrace with city views, a kitchen with a fridge and a dishwasher, and a private bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen cost extra. At 64$ for two it is rated 9.5, the highest rating among the budget hotels here. Book at Booking.com

Galapagos Morning Glory

Galapagos Morning Glory Hostel is in Puerto Ayora, a short walk from the waterfront, in a commercial area with banks and shops. The listing says it has welcomed guests for over 40 years.

It has seven rooms with air conditioning, an adjoining terrace and a writing table, free Wi-Fi and a garden. The staff can recommend sights and tourist spots.

Rooms are a Double Room with a Patio, a Standard King Room and a Standard Double Room, each with a full bathroom with free toiletries, a shower and a hairdryer. At 56$ for two it is rated 8.9. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

El Arco de Darwin

El Arco de Darwin Hostel is in the residential area of Puerto Ayora, a 15-minute walk from the main Malecon. Rooms have air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, and some have a kitchenette.

Some units have a terrace with city views, and bicycles can be rented. Rooms are a Deluxe King Room, a Deluxe Triple Room and a Budget Double Room with city or garden views. At 33$ for two it is the cheapest hotel on this list, rated 8.9. Book at Booking.com

San Cristobal Island

San Cristobal is the easternmost island of the Galapagos, and most visitors stay in the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

I picked these hotels by location, what each property offers and guest ratings. Hostal Terito is the one I stayed at, and the rest come from research.

Where to Stay on the Island

Most visitors stay in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The Main Malecón, which runs along the waterfront, is at the center of the activity, with shops, restaurants and bars.

The residential areas set back from the waterfront are quieter and further from the shops and restaurants.

For the beach, Playa Mann and Playa de Oro are close to town, and there are hotels near both. My best hotels in San Cristobal guide covers this island on its own.

What to do on the Island

I have guides to the island’s activities, including free things to do, tours, snorkeling spots, dive sites and beaches: 12 Free Things to do in San Cristobal, 7 Awesome Tours in San Cristobal, 11 Best Snorkeling Spots in San Cristobal, 7 Best Dive Sites in San Cristobal, 24 Amazing Things to do in San Cristobal, 5 Best Beaches in San Cristobal.

Price Comparison

Rooms for two people in USD

Luxury Resorts

Hotel Indigo Galapagos

★★★★★ Hotel Indigo Galapagos, an IHG hotel, opened in January 2023 as the first IHG property in the archipelago. It has 35 rooms and is in the center of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno.

Facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a terrace, a restaurant, a business center and a hot tub. There is a 24-hour reception, a shuttle service, room service and free Wi-Fi, and breakfast can be buffet, continental or vegetarian.

At 811$ for two it is the most expensive hotel in the San Cristobal list, with a 9.4 rating. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Golden Bay Galapagos Hotel

★★★★★ Golden Bay Galapagos Hotel is on Playa de Oro (Golden Beach), facing the sea, and has 19 rooms. The listing says guests can see sea lions and blue-footed boobies from the hotel.

The hotel describes its style as “Luxury without Ostentation”. At 415$ for two it is rated 9.0. Book at Booking.com Book at Expedia

Comfort - Standard Hotels

Casa Playa Mann

Casa Playa Mann is a family-owned bed and breakfast with sea views in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. The listing says its small size means fewer guests at a time, and a personal, independent stay in contact with nature and wildlife.

At 237$ for two it is the most expensive of the comfort hotels here, with a 9.7 rating, shared with Villa Bonita. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Galapagos Sunset Hotel

Galapagos Sunset Hotel is in the center of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, a 10-minute drive from the airport.

The listing describes a mix of the island’s nature and local hospitality. At 207$ for two it is rated 8.6. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Casa Opuntia

Casa Opuntia is a comfort-class hotel on the oceanfront boardwalk, a few meters from Playa de Oro.

It says it follows environmental best practices and takes part in a carbon neutrality project. At 180$ for two it is rated 8.4, the lowest rating among the comfort hotels here. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Villa Bonita! Guest House!

Villa Bonita Guest House is in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, a short distance from beaches. It has a private pool, a garden and barbecue facilities, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a flat-screen TV with cable channels.

It has a kitchenette, a dining area and a patio with views of the pool, and guests can use the outdoor swimming pool and hot tub. Playa de los Marinos is within walking distance, and the airport is 2 km away. At 140$ for two it is rated 9.7, the same as Casa Playa Mann, and costs 97$ less. Book at Booking.com

La Zayapa Hotel

La Zayapa Hotel is in the commercial area next to the malecón, in front of the dock. It has air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi and a café with a sea view.

Each room has a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV and toiletries, and some have sea or patio views. Snorkeling and stand-up paddle are nearby. At 135$ for two it is the most expensive of the standard hotels here, with a 7.4 rating, the lowest in the San Cristobal list. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Hotel Casa Blanca

Hotel Casa Blanca is in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, 300 meters from Playa de los Marinos. It has non-smoking rooms, a tour desk, free Wi-Fi and a restaurant serving an à la carte or American breakfast.

Rooms have a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, a private bathroom and toiletries, and some have a balcony with a city view or a terrace. Oro Beach and Playa Mann are within walking distance. At 123$ for two it is rated 9.2. Book at Booking.com

Galapagos Eco Friendly

Galapagos Eco Friendly is situated in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and offers guests comfortable accommodation with free WiFi. The property is located less than 1 km from Playa de los Marinos and just a 12-minute walk from Oro Beach. The rooms are equipped with a patio, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower and free toiletries.

Towels and bed linen cost extra. Breakfast is a buffet or American, and there is a garden with a terrace and a hot tub. At 120$ for two it is rated 8.0. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Casa D’Christi

Casa D’Cristhi is in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, with non-smoking rooms, free Wi-Fi, a tour desk, a terrace and a restaurant.

Oro Beach is 600 meters away, and Playa Mann and Playa de los Marinos are within a kilometer. It has family rooms and serves an American breakfast every morning. At 110$ for two it is rated 8.6. Book at Booking.com

Hostal Cann’s House

Hostal Cann’s House is a guesthouse a few minutes’ walk from Oro Beach, Playa Mann and Playa de los Marinos, with a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, a tour desk and free Wi-Fi.

Rooms have air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom and a terrace with a city view, and some have a kitchen with a fridge, a microwave and a toaster. Breakfast is à la carte, continental or American. At 101$ for two it is the cheapest of the standard hotels here, rated 9.4. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Budget Hotels

Cactus Hostal

Cactus Hostal is in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, with colorful rooms for 2 to 4 guests. Each has a small fridge with snacks and drinks, a TV, a work desk and a wardrobe, and some have bunk beds. Bathrooms have towels and toiletries.

There is an indoor living room with hammocks and cushions and an outdoor terrace with sunbathing furniture. Breakfast is served daily, and Wi-Fi is available in shared areas.

The multilingual staff give tips on local attractions, and the hostel has an airport shuttle and a security deposit box. At 78$ for two it is the most expensive of the budget hotels here, rated 8.9. Book at Booking.com

Hospedaje Romy

Hospedaje Romy is on San Cristobal, 120 meters from the malecón. It has free private parking and air-conditioned rooms with a beach view, a TV, a kitchenette and a balcony. There is a 24-hour tour desk, free Wi-Fi and towels. At 70$ for two it has the highest rating among the budget hotels here (9.5). Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Hostal Cattleya

Hostal Cattleya is 30 meters from the boardwalk and has 8 single, double and triple rooms with private bathrooms, hot water, air conditioning and Wi-Fi, plus a shared living room, dining room and kitchen.

Breakfast is served on the terrace facing the sea, with local fruits, and there is a hammock area. At 64$ for two it is rated 9.0. Book at Booking.com

Hostal Terito

Hostal Terito is a family-run hostel five blocks from the malecón of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, in a residential neighborhood with a lot of vegetation.

It is in Barrio las Peñas Bajo, near banks, pharmacies, restaurants and stores. At 46$ for two it is the cheapest hotel in the San Cristobal list, rated 9.0. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Isabela Island

Isabela is the largest island in the Galapagos, with an area of 4,586 square kilometers, more than four times the size of Santa Cruz, the second largest.

Most hotels are in Puerto Villamil. The list has villas and boutique hotels, comfort and standard hotels, and budget hotels, plus one all-inclusive lodge.

I picked these hotels by location, what each property offers and guest ratings. Cormorant Beach House is the one I stayed at, and the rest come from research.

Where to Stay on the Island

Most hotels on Isabela are in or near Puerto Villamil town, and there are two main areas to choose from.

The beachfront has direct access to the long white sand beach that runs in front of the town. Prices are usually higher here.

A block or two back from the beach, in Puerto Villamil town, there are more budget-friendly options. You are still close to the beach and to the town’s shops and restaurants. If you only want Isabela, read my best hotels in Isabela guide.

What to do on the Island

I have guides to the island’s activities, including free things to do, tours, snorkeling spots, dive sites and beaches:

11 Free Things to do in Isabela, 5 Amazing Tours in Isabela, 7 Best Snorkeling Spots in Isabela, 5 Best Dive Sites in Isabela, 19 Awesome Things to do in Isabela, 3 Best Beaches in Isabela

All-Inclusive Experiences

Scalesia Lodge

(Luxury Galapagos Camping)

Scalesia Lodge is an eco-lodge with 16 safari-style tents in the highlands of Isabela, about 20 minutes from Puerto Villamil. The tents have en-suite bathrooms and island views, families are welcome, and meals use locally sourced ingredients.

Activities include tours to see giant tortoises and hiking the active volcanoes of Sierra Negra and Chico. Scalesia Lodge is not on the booking sites above, so use the contact links below to reserve. For reservations contact them here:

Price Comparison

Rooms for two people in USD

Villas & Boutique Hotels

Casa Baronesa Waterfront Villa

(Seaside Villa)

Casa Baronesa is a waterfront villa in Puerto Villamil, a few steps from Puerto Villamil Beach, with a garden, free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen and a balcony with sea views. It has four air-conditioned bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen. Amenities include a hot tub, a high chair, an indoor fireplace and an outdoor BBQ grill, and there are cycling routes nearby. At 718$ for two it is the most expensive stay in the Isabela list, with a 9.8 rating. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Sandy Feet House

(Seside Villa)

Sandy Feet House is a beachfront villa in Puerto Villamil, steps from the beach. It has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and a terrace with sea views, plus free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and a garden.

The master bedroom has a king bed and a private bathroom facing the ocean, and the second bedroom has two twin XL beds. The sofa in the living room can be used as two single beds. The kitchen has modern appliances and cookware, and there is a washer/dryer. At 375$ for two it has the highest rating in the Isabela list (9.9). Book at Booking.com

Mi Playa Beach Front Isabela

(Seaside Villa)

Mi Playa Beach Front has two private apartments, with two bedrooms, three bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and a large social area with beach amenities and lounges.

It is a few steps from Puerto Villamil Beach and has a private beach area, water sports facilities and a garden. Breakfast can be a buffet, continental or Full English/Irish, and bikes can be hired. At 360$ for two it is rated 9.1. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel

(Boutique Hotel)

Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel is in Puerto Villamil, across the street from the beach and close to the town center. It has 14 rooms, a pool and a rooftop lounge, and it uses materials from the island. The rooms are mostly white with dark furniture, and have flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, stocked minibars and plenty of storage.

The listing mentions iguanas crossing the road in front of the hotel. Most of the staff are locals and can help with excursions and massages. There is a restaurant, an ocean-view bar and an outdoor jacuzzi. At 351$ for two it is the cheapest of the four villas and boutique hotels here, with an 8.8 rating, the lowest of the four. Book at Expedia

Comfort & Standard Hotels

Chez Manany Galapagos Ecolodge

Chez Manany is a family-owned eco-lodge outside Puerto Villamil. The listing says it is run by Manany, who works in tourism, and the architect Wilson. Sea lions and marine turtles can be seen snorkeling at the nearby Concha de Perla lagoon. The lodge can recommend and arrange tours, including a honeymoon package, and families are welcome, with a special rate for children under 8. There are bicycles, a laundry service and a water purification system. The Romantic Suite and the Design Apartments each have a private terrace and a fully equipped kitchen. At 209$ for two it is the most expensive of the comfort and standard hotels here, rated 9.5, the highest in the group. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

The Wooden House Hotel

The Wooden House Hotel is a family-run beach hotel on Isabela, a short walk from the beach, with an outdoor swimming pool and free Wi-Fi. It arranges diving and snorkeling trips, biking and kayaking.

Rooms are Deluxe Double, Single, Twin and King Rooms with wooden furnishings, air conditioning, work desks and showers, and some have wall drawings.

The restaurant serves local and international food, with outdoor seating by the pool, and an American breakfast is served daily. The hotel has solar water heaters and a farm that supplies seasonal produce. At 180$ for two it is rated 8.3, the lowest rating in the group, shared with Hotel Albemarle. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

The Isabela Beach House

Isabela Beach House has six beachfront rooms and two garden-view rooms. Each has a private bathroom with a solar-heated shower, air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, and the house is smoke-free. Breakfast is served on the beach, with fruit, yogurt, granola, bread and coffee, and the staff help with reservations and recommendations.

It is a five-minute walk from the harbor and town center. The Isabela Discovery team helps plan day tours such as kayaking, hiking, snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving and bird-watching. At 167$ for two it is rated 9.4. Book at Booking.com

Isamar Hotel

Isamar Hotel is a 4-star hotel on the beach in Puerto Villamil, with 30 rooms in a Mediterranean-inspired design, beach access, a lounge and balcony areas.

It is close to downtown, most of the island’s attractions and restaurants. The deck has lounge and shaded areas with private access to the beach, and there is a community balcony with ocean views, a restaurant and bar, and another lounge outside the restaurant. At 161$ for two it is rated 9.0. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Cormorant Beach House

I stayed at Cormorant Beach House. It has 10 rooms on the Puerto Villamil coast, by a white sand beach.

Its listing describes a minimalist, ecological hotel that has been running for over 20 years. Breakfast is at a local-owned restaurant near the hotel, and the staff can help plan activities. At 159$ for two it is rated 9.4, the same as The Isabela Beach House, which costs 8$ more.

Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Hotel Albemarle

Hotel Albemarle is a Mediterranean-style house on Puerto Villamil beach, with an outdoor pool and a garden. The air-conditioned rooms have tiled floors, wooden-beamed ceilings and private marble bathrooms, with sea or pool views. The listing mentions palm trees along the waterfront and marine iguanas.

Rooms include doubles or twins with pool or sea views, triples with sea views and doubles with partial sea views, all with air conditioning, cable TV and Wi-Fi. There is a breakfast area, a pool area and a terrace. At 152$ for two it is rated 8.3, the lowest rating in the group, shared with The Wooden House. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

La Casa de Marita

La Casa de Marita is a boutique hotel on the white-sand beaches of Puerto Villamil. The suites have contemporary art, private balconies with sea views, air conditioning, minibars and seating areas. The restaurant serves national and international dishes made with organic produce from Marita’s plantation.

There are hammocks facing the sea and a library, and snorkeling and hiking trips can be arranged. Room types are Beachfront Suites, Beachfront Jr. Suites, Garden Rooms with a view of an endemic garden, and Inland Rooms across from the main building. At 151$ for two it is the cheapest of the comfort and standard hotels here, rated 8.7. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Budget Hotels

Aparthotel Casa Soleil

Casa Soleil Aparthotel is in Puerto Villamil, about 450 meters from the beach. It has fully equipped one- and two-bedroom apartments, each with a kitchen, a living room, a patio and a terrace.

Options are the Deluxe Apartment, the Superior Apartment and a 2-Bedroom Apartment for up to 5 guests, all with a kitchen with a toaster, a dining area, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with free toiletries. At 58$ for two it is the most expensive of the budget hotels here, rated 8.9. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

Hostal Punta Arena

Hostal Punta Arena is a guesthouse in Puerto Villamil, a 5-minute walk from the beach. It has a garden, a shared kitchen, room service, a tour booking service and free Wi-Fi. Rooms have closets and private bathrooms with toiletries, and some have garden views.

The on-site restaurant serves American food with vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free options. Snorkeling and cycling are close by, and the multilingual staff are available around the clock. At 45$ for two it is rated 8.9. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

El Rincon de George

El Rincon de George is in Puerto Villamil, a 3-minute walk from the beach. Rooms are air-conditioned with free Wi-Fi and access to a terrace, and some have a kitchenette with a fridge.

Rooms range from the Budget Double Room to the Quadruple Room with a private bathroom. Free drinking water is provided and breakfast is available. At 35$ for two it is rated 8.5, the lowest rating among the budget hotels here. Book at Booking.com

Posada del Caminante

Posada del Caminante is a hostel a short walk from the beach, with rooms with refrigerators, TVs and private or shared bathrooms with 24-hour hot water. There is a shared kitchen, free fruit and a laundry service.

Rooms are doubles, triples and quadruples, plus a 4-bed mixed dormitory. The staff can arrange tours, and there is an outdoor area with hammocks. Free drinking water, bananas and oranges are included. At 30$ for two it is the cheapest hotel in the Isabela list, rated 8.9. Book at Expedia Book at Booking.com

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