Puerto Villamil, the most populated area on Isabela Island, sits along the island’s southern coast. The locals in this small, charming town primarily rely on tourism and fishing for their livelihoods. Both visitors and residents enjoy the serene beach setting, with its expansive white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and palm-lined sandy pathways that give the town a laid-back, tropical vibe.
Founded over a century ago, Puerto Villamil has managed to preserve its old-world charm as a quaint fishing village. At the same time, it has developed just enough to offer beautiful boutique hotels and a range of local attractions that are conveniently accessible from town.
In this guide, we’ll share more about what makes Puerto Villamil so special and highlight some of the top things you can do in and around the town.
Getting Around Puerto Villamil
There are plenty of options for exploring beyond Puerto Villamil, whether you want to venture into the highlands or visit one of Isabela Island’s impressive volcanoes. While there are taxis and organized trips available, a fun and affordable way to explore the area is by renting a bike for $2 to $3 per hour.
Keep in mind that car rentals and Uber services aren’t available here, so biking is a great alternative. We chose to bike around Isabela Island, and it was an absolute blast! Honestly, I was a bit disappointed that we had limited time on the island—I wished we could have stayed longer. If you have the flexibility, I’d recommend spending two to three days on Isabela Island. Dedicate at least one full day to biking and beach hopping; it’s the perfect way to soak in the island’s natural beauty at your own pace.
Places to Visit
There are numerous places to visit within Puerto Villamil and its nearby areas. Check out the list we have curated below to help you create your itineraries!
Puerto Villamil Beach
Puerto Villamil Beach, right in front of town, perfectly captures the tropical charm of the Galapagos. Boasting the longest stretch of white sand in the islands, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, surfing, or simply sunbathing. If you’re looking to relax, there are plenty of beachfront hotels to choose from, along with bars where you can enjoy a refreshing sundowner as the sun dips below the horizon.
One of the highlights of this beach is the abundance of wildlife. At the far end, you’ll often spot a colony of marine iguanas basking in the sun, while wader birds can be seen foraging along the coast. It’s the perfect setting for those who appreciate both nature and a relaxed beach vibe.
La Playa de Amor
La Playa de Amor is a hidden gem located on Puerto Villamil’s west coast, with a rugged volcanic shoreline that adds to its unique beauty. You can reach this secluded beach by bike or taxi, making it an easy addition to your itinerary. The clear waters here are perfect for cooling off, and it’s a great spot if you’re looking for some quiet time away from the more crowded beaches.
One of the highlights of Playa de Amor is the wildlife. You’ll frequently encounter marine iguanas lounging on the rocks, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle or two. Because this beach is less visited, there’s a good chance you’ll have it all to yourself, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Concha de Perla and Puerto Villamil Harbor
Though Concha de Perla is a relatively small beach, its sheltered bay is one of the best spots on Isabela Island for snorkeling. Here, you can swim alongside playful Galapagos sea lions or simply watch them lounging on the wooden benches by the shore. As you explore the area, keep an eye out for Galapagos penguins perched on nearby rock outcrops or swimming in the chilly waters.
To fully appreciate the stunning underwater world, you can easily rent snorkeling gear from your hotel or a local agency. It’s an experience not to be missed, especially if you enjoy close encounters with the island’s unique marine life.
Wall of Tears or Muro de Lagrimas
Photo Wikipedia
A visit to The Wall of Tears (El Muro de las Lágrimas), located further up the coast, is a must for history enthusiasts. This 25-meter-high wall was painstakingly constructed by inmates of the island’s former penal colony and serves as a stark reminder of Isabela’s unique human history.
Tragically, many prisoners lost their lives during the wall’s construction due to the harsh conditions. The site is easily accessible by bike or taxi, making it a popular excursion from Puerto Villamil. As you explore the area, keep an eye out for the numerous lava lizards scurrying among the sun-baked rocks. It’s a poignant place to visit, blending the island’s natural beauty with its darker past.
La Playita
Another hidden gem along the Wall of Tears Trail is La Playita, a tranquil beach perfect for cooling off and unwinding. The calm waters here offer a refreshing escape, and you might even find yourself swimming alongside playful sea lions. If you’re lucky, you could spot whitetip reef sharks gliding through the waters just offshore.
Flamingo Lagoon
On the west side of Puerto Villamil, my wife and I explored numerous salt and brackish lagoons that host a wide variety of coastal and marine birds. We were especially excited to find the largest concentration of flamingos in the Galapagos right here.
Strolling through the area, we felt a deep connection to the island’s natural beauty as we watched these elegant pink birds in their peaceful habitat—a truly memorable part of our trip.
Wetlands
Just past the Iguana Crossing Hotel, my wife and I found the entrance to a boardwalk route that winds through the fascinating wetland environment. As we walked along, we were lucky enough to spot flamingos and pintail ducks feeding in the mineral-rich waters.
The trail took us through a variety of mangrove forests and towering Opuntia cacti, giving us an up-close introduction to two of the Galapagos’ most iconic plant species. For us, the highlight was knowing that this area is one of the few places in the world where bird enthusiasts can catch a glimpse of the critically endangered Mangrove Finch. We kept our eyes peeled, hoping to spot one of these rare birds during our stroll.
Arnaldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center
The same road from the wetlands also leads to the remarkable giant tortoise breeding center. Here, we found two adult tortoise species that are endemic to Isabela Island.
One of the highlights for us was visiting the hatchery, where young tortoises are kept safe from invasive predators like goats and dogs. The hatchlings are cared for until they are strong enough to survive independently in the wild. It was impressive to see the dedication to protecting these species and ensuring their survival for generations to come.
Activities in Puerto Villamil
There’s no shortage of adventure activities in Puerto Villamil. Bike rentals are easily available, allowing you to explore the town at your own pace. We opted to cycle to the Wall of Tears, which turned out to be a fantastic experience. Along the way, we stopped at a few small, secluded beaches where we spotted iguanas, seagulls, and crabs enjoying the shoreline.
If you’ve booked any island tours, you’re in for a treat. These boat trips offer the chance to see even more wildlife, including playful sea lions, Galapagos penguins, and the iconic blue-footed boobies. Every excursion feels like a new adventure, filled with the unique sights and sounds of the Galapagos.
Don’t forget to pack your snorkeling gear if you’re eager to explore the marine life right from the shore. Snorkeling here is incredible, allowing you to swim alongside manta rays, sea turtles, penguins, and a variety of colorful fish. For an even more exciting experience, consider booking a snorkeling day cruise to Los Tuneles or Cabo Rosa, where you can get up close with sharks and even spot seahorses.
Just north of town, the Villamil Lagoons are another fantastic spot to visit. These small wetlands and mangroves are perfect for birdwatching. We were lucky enough to see flamingos and other migratory waders there, making it a peaceful break from the more adventurous activities.
Places to Dine and Drink
Puerto Villamil has a wide range of eateries to select from. Many specialize in seafood, although there are also burger and pizza places. We have listed a few suggestions:
Isabela Grill
Isabela Grill is one of the oldest and most beloved restaurants on Isabela Island, known for its distinctive BBQ offerings. Many locals and visitors consider it the best spot for BBQ and steak in the Galapagos. The menu is diverse, featuring shared platters of fish and meat cooked right at your table, along with a budget-friendly set lunch option. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty steak or a selection of delicious sandwiches, this place has something to satisfy your appetite after a long day of exploring.
Casa Marita’
Casa de Marita offers a delightful fusion of Ecuadorian, Peruvian, and international cuisine, with a special emphasis on fresh seafood. The menu is seasonal, and what makes it even more unique is that many of the ingredients are grown in the owner’s own garden.
Set right on the beachfront, the restaurant’s second-floor patio provides stunning ocean views, making it the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail on a tropical evening. Dining here feels like a special treat, combining fresh flavors with a relaxed, scenic atmosphere.
Hauser’s Restaurant
If you’re looking for a hidden gem, we highly recommend Hauser’s Restaurant. Run by an Austrian chef and his Ecuadorian wife, this charming spot is nestled in the hills about 20 minutes from town by taxi. Just getting there feels like an adventure, and by the time you arrive, you’ll definitely have worked up an appetite.
This place is a favorite among locals, but keep in mind that reservations are required. What stood out to us was the generous portions and the warm, genuine hospitality. The dishes are crafted from fresh seafood, farm-grown fruits, and seasonal vegetables, all prepared with a unique touch that reflects the chef’s culinary flair. It’s truly worth the journey for an unforgettable dining experience.
Iguana Crossing
If you’re looking for a romantic spot for a date night, the restaurant at Iguana Crossing Hotel is an ideal choice. The creatively prepared seafood dishes, paired with fresh vegetables sourced from the hotel’s own ranch in the highlands, make every meal feel special. As you dine, you can soak in the stunning seaside views, making it a perfect setting for a memorable evening. It’s a place where you can truly relax, enjoy delicious food, and feel pampered.
Beto’s Beach Bar
Beto’s Beach Bar is already an institution on Isabela Island. The owner is frequently on-site, playing vintage rock and blues. It’s another great spot to view the sunset.
Where to Stay
Most hotels and lodging properties in Isabela Island are located in Puerto Villamil. We listed a few recommended accommodations:
Hotel Cally
Hotel Cally is one of the newer accommodations on Isabela Island, perfectly situated near the mangroves and just steps from the beach. Its prime location makes it an excellent choice for those planning land-based trips in the Galapagos.
The hotel offers cozy, spacious rooms on both the ground and second floors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. With only seven rooms, the hotel ensures a more intimate and personalized experience, allowing you to truly connect with the island’s natural surroundings. The large, welcoming lobby adds to the sense of adventure and relaxation, making it a great base for exploring the beauty of Isabela.
Nightly rate: Starts at $85 (check the current price here)
Casita de Playa
Casita de la Playa started as a quaint beachfront guest house and has since evolved into a charming 12-room boutique hotel. Its prime location means you’re just a short stroll away from Isabela’s picturesque town plaza.
The hotel’s fresh, modern-rustic décor adds a touch of elegance while maintaining the island’s natural charm. We loved the cozy lounge that opens directly onto the beach, and the second-floor social space and breakfast area, which offer stunning views of the Isabela coastline. Most of the rooms feature ocean views, blending contemporary style with native island elements for a truly unique Galapagos experience. It’s a perfect place to unwind while soaking in the beauty of the islands.
Nightly Rate: Starts at $169 (check the current price here)
Iguana Crossing
Iguana Crossing is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable hotels on Isabela Island. Its minimalist architecture combined with exceptional service offers guests a truly unique experience on this sparsely inhabited island. However, be prepared—it’s definitely on the pricier side.
The hotel’s prime location, nestled between two long stretches of white sand beaches and backed by a wildlife-rich lagoon, is hard to beat. We were especially impressed by the oceanfront pool and Jacuzzi, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. With just 12 fully furnished rooms and an exclusive master suite, Iguana Crossing provides an intimate, luxurious stay that lets you fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Galapagos.
Nightly Rate: Starts at $292
Hotel Casa Isabela
Casa Isabela is conveniently located just a 5-minute drive from Puerto Villamil’s main port, making it an excellent base for exploring Isabela Island’s attractions. With 12 spacious rooms featuring en suite facilities, the hotel provides direct access to untouched beaches and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
This charming boutique hotel is locally owned and has a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind, relax, and simply enjoy the beauty of the beach. Whether you’re traveling with family or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Casa Isabela offers a comfortable, inviting stay on the island.
Nightly rate: Starts at $80
Also, make sure to check out our rating of the best hotels on the Galapagos Islands.
Conclusion
Puerto Villamil truly stands out as one of the best spots to unwind and explore in the Galapagos Islands. There are fantastic options for guided day trips, but what we loved most was the freedom to discover the area on our own. Honestly, we’re already looking forward to coming back and staying even longer to soak up more of what Puerto Villamil and Isabela Island have to offer.
Beyond Puerto Villamil, there’s so much more to see and experience throughout the Galapagos Islands. Every visit feels like a new adventure, with countless hidden gems waiting to be explored.
