Snorkel, Surf, Sea Lions, and Sunset at Playa La Lobería

Playa La Lobería is an easily accesible beach on Isla San Cristóbal of the Galapagos Islands. It’s a hotspot for snorkeling and surfing year-round, as well as sunbathing (but beware it is VERY hot and sunny, you will burn without protection!) Sea lions and large iguanas frequent this beach and can often be seen right in front of you in the water on the rocks. If you are lucky enough they will even come and swim with you, or you may observe them enjoying a feast of fish.  Snorkeling here is great, specifically during low-tide when all is calm, and slack-tide when more marine life is being washed back up into the area.  During my multiple snorkels here I saw a wide array of fish, sea urchins, sea lions, and massive sea turtles. Surfing is popular here as well. Stick around for sunset and you will be rewarded with a dazzling display. 

How to get there:

La Lobería can be accessed by foot, taxi, or bicycle.  It is $2.50 for a taxi from town, a 15 minute bike ride, or a 45 minute walk. From the parking lot, you enter through some trees, and turn left at the fork. Turning right at the trail is prohibited. From the trail head it takes a little less than 10 minutes to arrive at the beach area. You will likely cross paths with one of the large iguanas on the way there, and watch out for the horse flies. 

Please Note:

• This is a protected area and needs to be conserved as much as possible. 
• Do not feed, touch, or approach wildlife past 2 meters.  
• Do not litter or go off trail, and please collect any trash you do find. There is a dumpster located at the entrance to the trail
• Mind the signs that notify you NOT to walk in the areas to the left and the right of the beach. These are nesting areas for many of the birds.
• Sea lions, specifically adult males, are very territorial.  While mostly playful, be alert for behavior such as incessant barking and puffed out chests. Back away from these sea lions immediately to avoid causing them stress and being bitten. 
• Lastly, the sun is extremely strong here, as on the rest of the island. You must wear protective clothing of apply sunscreen often. You can and will get burned if you aren't cautious. There are a couple shaded areas, but not many, and will likely be taken by the time you get there.