Galapagos Islands Rábida - The red beach island

Galapagos Island Rábida

Galapagos Islands Rábida is located 5 kilometres south of Santiago Island. It is known for its stunning stark red beaches, unlike the white sandy beaches, you see on the other Galapagos Islands. The colour is a result of the iron-rich volcanic material which oxidized over time. The island has plenty of lava formations, which serves as a great reminder of its origins. Upon arrival on this island, you will be greeted by a large colony of sunbathing sea lions and curious pups. While most sea lions are friendly, some older sea lions may be territorial. During breeding season, brown pelicans can be found nesting near the Crouton scouleri bushes. You can also hike up the other side of the island for an incredible hilltop view of the red beach below.

The saltwater lagoon is located behind the beach where flamboyant pink flamingos often breed and feed on pink shrimp larvae and water boatmen. The flamingos really take their time with their meals as they feed for around 7 to 12 hours a day! While the number of flamingos varies from year to year, pintail ducks and the common Stilts are also frequently sighted at the lagoon.

A short inland hiking trail is also a good place to observe land birds such as the Galapagos finches, Galapagos doves, Yellow Warblers, mockingbirds, as well as occasional snakes. The island is scattered with gigantic Opuntia cacti, Palo Santo trees, and scrubby bushes.

The clear turquoise waters allow for great swimming and snorkeling opportunity. If you are lucky, you may even spot sharks patrolling the shores of this beautiful red island.

Highlights

Snorkeling, a saltwater lagoon with flamingos, red beach, and trekking.

Animals

Sea lions, flamingos, brown pelicans, Galapagos snakes, blue-footed boobies and many more.

La Rábida Island at a glance

Area: 5 km2

Highest elevation: 367 m

Population: uninhabited

Ways to get there: hotel/cruise ship

 

 

Rábida Island Tours

Dragon Hill at Santa Cruz Island

Ecuador & Galapagos trip with the experts 2026

Duration: 15 - 15 days
Highlights:

This trip is accompanied by Galapagos and Ecuador expert Beate Zwermann, founder of Galapagos PRO.

From ,-
Price per pax
Galapagos Legend

Galapagos Cruise: Smoother Sailing Tours

Duration: 9 - 15 days
Highlights: Large stable ships, Onboard doctors, All Routes, English Speaking guides

Don't let seasickness hold you back! Choose from the finest large ships with maximum stability and terrific itineraries.

From 3350,- USD
Price per pax

✪ Rábida Island Tours ✪

Dragon Hill at Santa Cruz Island

Ecuador & Galapagos trip with the experts 2026

Duration: 15 - 15 days
Highlights:

This trip is accompanied by Galapagos and Ecuador expert Beate Zwermann, founder of Galapagos PRO.

From ,-
Price per pax
Galapagos Legend

Galapagos Cruise: Smoother Sailing Tours

Duration: 9 - 15 days
Highlights: Large stable ships, Onboard doctors, All Routes, English Speaking guides

Don't let seasickness hold you back! Choose from the finest large ships with maximum stability and terrific itineraries.

From 3350,- USD
Price per pax
The River Boat Manatee

Cruise Ecuador: Amazon Cruise and Galapagos Cruise

Duration: 12 - 16 days
Highlights: Yasuni National Park, Isabela & Fernandina, Santa Cruz and North Seymour, Includes all transfers and domestic flights

The three wonders of Ecuador in one trip: Andes Mountains, Amazon and Galapagos Islands

From 4890,- USD
Price per pax
Mary Anne

Galapagos Cruise for Solo and Single Travelers

Duration: 12 - 14 days
Highlights: Fantastic itinerary, beautiful sailing ship, other cruise options available: Petrel and Ocean Spray

The wistful Mary Anne yacht offers 6 single cabins - the perfect option for single travelers!

From 5310,- USD
Price per pax
Isabela II

Galapagos Cruise Complete

Duration: 14 - 18 days
Highlights: Genovesa, Fernandina, Española, Bartolomé, Flora und Fauna komplett

Take your time to discover the true essence of the Galapagos

From 5990,- USD
Price per pax
Dragon Hill at Santa Cruz Island

Ecuador & Galapagos trip with the experts 2025

Duration: 15 - 15 days
Highlights:

This trip is accompanied by Galapagos and Ecuador expert Beate Zwermann, founder of Galapagos PRO.

From 8470,- USD
Price per pax
South America in Luxury

South America Deluxe with Galapagos Cruise

Duration: 21 - 25 days
Highlights: 3 days in Rio de Janeiro, Sugarloaf Mountain & Christ the Redeemer, Immense Iguassu Falls, Tango in Buenos Aires, Lima, Inca capital - Cusco, Machu Picchu, Quito - UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galapagos cruise

South America's incredible highlights pair magically with a Galapagos cruise

From 14460,- USD
Price per pax