Puerto Chino is the perfect spot to unwind and take in the sights and sounds of the Pacific Ocean. With its soft white sand and inviting turquoise waters, it’s ideal for swimming and snorkeling. I’d definitely recommend adding this beach to your Galapagos bucket list.
The spacious beach provides plenty of room to sunbathe, and the calm waters make it a favorite for swimmers. Beyond the shore, you’ll find finches flitting around the mangroves, eagerly hoping for a snack. Along the rocky outcrops on either side of the beach, sea lions can often be seen basking – though it’s best to keep your distance, as they can become territorial if approached or startled.
In addition to sea lions, you might spot Galápagos green turtles and stingrays gliding through the water. Blue-footed boobies are also a common sight, perched on the rocks near the shore. We visited Puerto Chino Beach as part of our 10-day Galapagos trip, and it was one of those spots that truly made an impression:
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How to Get to Puerto Chino Beach
There are three ways to reach the stunning Puerto Chino Beach.
San Cristobal Highlands Tour
Most visitors reach Puerto Chino Beach as part of a tour through the San Cristobal highlands. Several highlands excursions include a stop at this beautiful beach, and they’re easy to arrange through local travel companies. This way, you can combine the peaceful beach experience with the chance to explore more of the island’s unique landscapes and wildlife.
By Taxi
While there are many organized highland tours, we found it easier to hire a local cab driver for the day. Our driver was friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience feel more personalized. With his help, we visited Puerto Chino Beach along with other highlights like El Junco Crater Lake and the Galapagos Tortoise Hatchery. It was a relaxed way to see the sights at our own pace, and we enjoyed having a local guide who knew the island well.
By Bike
Another option is to rent a bicycle to reach Puerto Chino Beach. However, be prepared for a challenging ride – you’ll need to navigate up and over the mountains to get there. It’s not a route for the faint-hearted, so we wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re an experienced cyclist up for a workout.
What to Expect When Visiting Puerto Chino Beach
To reach Puerto Chino Beach, you’ll need to walk about 15 minutes along a paved path from the parking area. The trail ends with a charming little tunnel of branches that opens up to a beautiful stretch of white sand. I was actually surprised by how small the beach was—after visiting other Galapagos beaches, I had expected a larger expanse.
Puerto Chino is framed by rocky cliffs on both sides, giving it a unique shape that’s broader than it is long. There are only a few trees and boulders at the back for shade, so it’s best to come prepared if you’re planning to spend time here.
The sea itself is crystal clear, with gentle waves rolling in. The cliffs on either side extend into the water, creating a sort of natural harbor. While it’s generally a safe spot for swimming, keep an eye out for warning signs, as there can be dangerous undercurrents.
Surfing at Puerto Chino Beach
The waves at Puerto Chino Beach are perfect for those who enjoy staying above the surface. They’re just big enough to give you a gentle ride back to shore without being overwhelming, making it a great spot for beginner surfers looking to catch some easy waves. However, as always, it’s wise to stay cautious of the currents – there are frequent warnings, so be sure to pay attention for a safe experience.
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Hiking at Puerto Chino Beach
Don’t miss the chance to climb onto the rocks to the right of the beach. The path is fully exposed to the sun, so be sure to bring plenty of water, especially in warmer weather.
This short trek is a fantastic way to spot local wildlife, including Galapagos finches, mockingbirds, and vibrant yellow warblers. The heat often draws out lava lizards too, and we saw several basking on rocks along the route.
The trail is lined with thick vegetation, including towering prickly pear cacti. Known as Galapagos Prickly Pears, these unique cacti have aged trunks that look more like wood than flesh, making them stand out against the landscape.
A little farther along, a walk around the headland takes you to a popular nesting area for marine birds, especially blue-footed boobies. We spotted a few perched on the rocks and even diving for fish in the water, although none appeared along the trail itself.
Even if you don’t see the blue-footed boobies up close, the trek is well worth it for the stunning views over the ocean. The scenery alone made the climb unforgettable.
Views at Puerto Chino Beach
Even if you don’t spot any blue-footed boobies, the trek to Puerto Chino Beach is far from disappointing. The highlight of the hike awaits at the high point, where you can look down into the cove, taking in the deep blue waters moving rhythmically with the tide. From here, the views both up and down the coast are breathtaking, making the short climb well worth it.
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The lookout point also offers a chance to see more wildlife, including the occasional tortoise ambling through the vegetation. This vantage point, with its expansive coastal vistas and rich marine hues, became one of our favorite spots for simply soaking in the natural beauty of San Cristobal.
Travel Tips
Because there are no amenities at Playa Puerto Chino, it is best to bring everything you’ll need for your trip such as:
- Food and water
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Sunglasses
- Swimsuit and beach towel
- Camera for photo ops
Make sure to request your driver to stay a bit longer. When our driver gave us a time restriction, I was unprepared and didn’t think to ask. We ended up ending our trip a bit unsatisfied and hoping we had stayed longer on the beach.
Bottom Line
Though Puerto Chino Beach may be smaller than other Galapagos beaches, it holds its own with stunning beauty and unique charm. The panoramic views from the cliff are absolutely breathtaking, offering a sweeping look at the turquoise waters and rugged coastline. The abundant wildlife adds to the experience, making it a rewarding destination for nature lovers.
If you’re planning a Galapagos itinerary and considering beach options, be sure to add Puerto Chino Beach to the list! It’s a spot that captures the essence of the islands in a setting that’s both serene and unforgettable.
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