Isabela, the largest island in the Galápagos, offers an incredible snorkeling spot called Concha de Perla, or Pearl Shell, located conveniently near Puerto Villamil. This natural pool, set within a beautiful mangrove forest, is accessible without a guide, making it unique among the Galapagos snorkeling sites. Here, we were able to swim freely in the calm, protected lagoon, enjoying the company of sea lions, penguins, sea turtles, iguanas, and a variety of other fascinating marine creatures.
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How to Get to Concha Perla?
From Puerto Villamil, head towards the boat port and look for a small boardwalk on the left, just before the pier. Follow this boardwalk for about three minutes, and you’ll reach the lagoon. If you’re up for a stroll, it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk from town to the pier, where the boardwalk begins. Alternatively, you can grab a cab from Puerto Villamil to the pier, which costs around $2 per person for a quick 5-minute ride.
Wildlife in Concha Perla
Concha Perla Bay is one of the greatest sites on Isabela Island to experience the awe-inspiring diversity of the Galapagos’ fauna and natural sceneries. Here are some of the animal highlights you could encounter at Concha Perla:
Galápagos Sea Lions
Throughout the Galápagos Islands, Galápagos Sea Lions are a common sight, lounging and basking under the sun wherever you turn. While they’re officially considered a subspecies of the California Sea Lion, some experts argue that they might even be a unique species altogether. Their playful nature and relaxed presence make them one of the most delightful companions to encounter during your island explorations.
Galápagos Marine Iguana
The Galápagos Marine Iguana, the world’s only ocean-going lizard, is truly one-of-a-kind, existing exclusively on the Galápagos Islands. These iconic reptiles boast 11 subspecies, each adapted to a specific island. While they aren’t exactly social, they’re remarkably tolerant of each other, often gathering in clusters for warmth during cooler nights. Early in the morning, you’ll spot them basking in the sun, warming up for their first swim of the day. It’s fascinating to watch these creatures adapt to the unique demands of island life, combining terrestrial habits with a marine lifestyle.
Brown Pelican
The Brown Pelican is a frequent sight across the Galápagos Islands and can even be found as far as the American coast. You’ll often spot these graceful birds around ships, ports, and especially near the bustling Fisherman’s Dock in Santa Cruz. It’s captivating to watch them swoop down elegantly into the water for fish, then skim over the surface before they return to their nests in the nearby mangrove lagoons. Their movements are both powerful and serene, adding a touch of grace to the Galápagos’ vibrant marine landscape.
Galapagos Mockingbird
While Darwin’s Finches are often celebrated as symbols of Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection, it was actually the Galápagos Mockingbirds that sparked his first insights. Of the four mockingbird species on the islands, the Galápagos Mockingbird is the most commonly seen by visitors. These birds are famously curious, often approaching travelers instead of flying away. Their bold nature and striking presence provide a unique experience, letting you feel a little closer to the incredible diversity and history that inspired Darwin’s groundbreaking work.
Darwin’s Finches
The slight variations among the Galápagos Finches were crucial in helping Darwin shape his theory of natural selection, a concept that many students encounter today. These finches, often referred to as “Darwin’s Finches,” include 17 distinct species across the archipelago, ranging in size from about 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 cm). Observing these small yet diverse birds is like witnessing evolution in action—each species has adapted uniquely to its environment, showing subtle yet important differences in beak shape and feeding habits.
Best Time to Visit Concha Perla
If you’re aiming for clear skies and calm waters while snorkeling at Concha Perla, the wet and warmer season from December to May is ideal. For diving enthusiasts, the drier, colder season from June to November offers a unique experience. During this time, the Humboldt current enriches the sea with nutrients, attracting an array of marine life, including sharks and even whales, making the dive truly spectacular.
Snorkeling at Concha Perla
The walkway leading to Concha Perla starts conveniently next to one of the dockside food cabanas, and it’s impossible to miss the sea lions lounging along the way. They’re everywhere as we make our way down the boardwalk—some are dozing in the cool shade of the mangroves, while others have made themselves comfortable right on the path itself.
I have to admit, seeing these sea lions so close, right on the boardwalk, was unexpected, especially considering how popular Concha Perla is with both snorkelers and tour groups. Yet, they seem blissfully indifferent to us, barely noticing our approach, though we do startle a few now and then as we pass.
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As we got closer to the lagoon, we walked across a wooden bridge that meandered through the dense mangrove forest. We kept our eyes peeled for iguanas and other land creatures that might be hiding in the shade. Soon, we arrived at the shallow, clear bay—perfect for a refreshing swim and some snorkeling.
The waters in this spot are incredibly calm, thanks to the large rock structure that shields the lagoon, making it a fantastic place for kids and snorkeling beginners like us. With the crystal-clear water, it was easy to spot the vibrant marine life swimming around us—sea lions playfully darting by, graceful turtles gliding along, a few reef sharks in the distance, and schools of colorful fish weaving through the water.
Bottom Line
Concha Perla is truly one of the must-visit spots on Isabela Island, Galapagos. The combination of strolling along the wooden walkway through peaceful mangroves and snorkeling in the shallow, crystal-clear lagoon gave us an unforgettable glimpse into the incredible marine life of the Galapagos. If you’re planning your Galapagos itinerary, definitely add Concha Perla to your list—it’s the perfect place to relax and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and unique wildlife of these islands.
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