When is the best time to snorkel in the Galapagos? You can snorkel year-round, but December through May generally offers warmer water and calmer seas, while June through November brings cooler, nutrient-rich currents and different marine wildlife opportunities. Some standout snorkeling locations include Punta Espinosa, Tagus Cove, and Puerto Egas.
The islands are a treasure trove for adventurous travelers to get up close to exotic animals and aquatic life. With roughly 143,000 km², or about 55,000 square miles of protected, marine reserve waters, it’s easily one of the best snorkeling destinations in the world.
If you’re dreaming of snorkeling in the Galapagos with sea turtles, sea lions, reef fish and maybe even a marine iguana, read on to find out when and where are the best places to snorkel in the Galapagos!
Key Takeaways: Snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands
- You can snorkel in the Galapagos year-round—the experience changes with the seasons, but extraordinary marine encounters are possible throughout the year.
- December through May generally brings warmer water and calmer seas—water temperatures average around 76°F (25°C), making the warm season particularly comfortable for travelers who plan to spend plenty of time snorkeling.
- June through November brings cooler, nutrient-rich water and different wildlife opportunities—the Humboldt Current helps support abundant marine life, while Galapagos penguins become easier to encounter during this season.
- Punta Espinosa, Tagus Cove, and Puerto Egas are standout snorkeling sites—depending on the location and conditions, snorkelers may encounter sea turtles, sea lions, marine iguanas, penguins, rays, reef fish, and other Galapagos marine life.
When Is the Best Time to Snorkel in the Galapagos?
There really isn't a single best time to snorkel in the Galapagos—it depends on the experience you're looking for. From December through May, water temperatures average around 76°F (25°C) and seas tend to be calmer. From June through November, the Humboldt Current brings cooler water averaging around 72°F (22°C), along with nutrient-rich conditions that support abundant marine life.
If you’re planning to snorkel in the Galapagos, the wet season is generally preferred. Daily temperatures are usually in the mid 20’s and the water is a mild 25°C making it the perfect time to jump in!
The seas are usually calmer too and underwater visibility is at its best, giving you more of an opportunity to spot sharks and iguanas feeding on the sea floor.
Although it is rainier, most days only bring short, drizzly showers that won’t stop you from enjoying the outdoors.
Peak, wet season runs from mid-December to mid-January so make sure you book at least 6 months in advance if traveling during these times!
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Best Snorkel Sites in the Galapagos
The Galapagos has numerous spots that are great for Galapagos snorkeling but if you’re after an experience that will knock your fins off, make sure you include these destinations:
1. Punta Espinosa, Fernandina Island
Fernandina Island is frequently named as one of the best places to snorkel. Punta Espinosa on the western side is our top pick! Here, the cooler water from the Bolivar Channel encourages sea turtles and marine iguanas to graze in troughs near the shore and a sighting is almost guaranteed! If you’re lucky, you might also spot a Galapagos penguin, sea lions, dolphins and flightless cormorants.
2. Tagus Cove, Isabela Island
Tagus Cove is like a underwater pasture as green algae covers the seafloor, giving sea turtles and marine iguanas plenty to graze on. If you’re good at holding your breath, swim down to see sea horses, sharks and rockfish. Penguin sightings are also reasonably common here too.
3. Puerto Egas (James Bay), Santiago Island
Santiago Island boasts one of the only snorkeling sites in the Galapagos you can access from the shore instead of by boat. Here, the black sandy beach slopes down to a rocky sea floor where sea turtles graze and hide among the dark rocks. Between December and May, you might also find sea horses, golden rays, octopus, barracuda and reef sharks.
Regardless of when and where you choose to go, snorkeling in the Galapagos is sure to be a highlight of your once-in-a-lifetime adventure! We even put together the top 10 snorkeling spots in the Galapagos to add to your trip!
For everything else you need to plan, book and prepare for your trip, head over to our Galapagos Islands Travel Guide for fun facts, things to do, packing list recommendations and more.