My Favorite Beaches in the Galápagos

— A Local Girl’s Guide to Paradise

When you grow up surrounded by the sea, you learn to fall in love with its rhythm. Living in the Galápagos Islands taught me that every beach has its own soul. Some are wild and untamed, others soft and serene—but all are unforgettable.

Whether you're planning a visit or just dreaming of pastel waters and volcanic sands, here are my favorite Galápagos beaches—the ones that inspired the colors, textures, and mood of our latest Kawaii Memories collection.

1. Tortuga Bay (Santa Cruz)

☁️ Dreamy Vibes: Powder-white sand + calm turquoise waters

This is where I go to feel completely at peace. The walk to Tortuga Bay feels like a nature meditation, surrounded by cacti and marine iguanas. The beach itself is straight out of a postcard—endless, soft, and quiet. I always bring a journal, a soft wrap, and let the ocean lull me into daydreams. ✨

Inspo color: Soft sand beige + seafoam teal

2. Gardner Bay (Española Island)

🌞 Wild Beauty: Bright blue waters + lazy sea lions

This beach feels alive in the most playful way. Sea lions nap in the sun while birds wheel overhead. The water is so clear it sparkles, and it’s one of the best spots for snorkeling. The golden hour here? Pure magic.

Inspo color: Golden sand + marine blue + blush coral

3. Puerto Chino (San Cristóbal)

🌿 Secret Escape: Hidden cove vibes + volcanic cliffs

Tucked away and less visited, Puerto Chino feels like a secret only locals know. I love coming here for quiet swims and inspiration sketches. It’s dramatic, romantic, and full of natural contrast—dark lava rocks against a light, bright sea.

Inspo color: Volcanic gray + pale lilac + ocean mist

4. Playa Mann (San Cristóbal)

🌸 Sweet + Social: Sunset chills + local life

This is where my friends and I would hang out after school—sharing snacks, giggling over crushes, and watching the sunset. It’s a popular spot with locals, and there's always music and laughter in the air.

Inspo color: Sunset pink + pastel orange + coconut white

5. Concha de Perla (Isabela Island)

🐢 Snorkel Heaven: Tranquil lagoon + underwater magic

More of a lagoon than a beach, but worth mentioning! The crystal-clear water is a window into a world of sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish. Floating here feels like you're part of a living painting.

Inspo color: Jade green + baby blue + sandy taupe


🌴 Why These Beaches Matter to Me

Each of these places is part of my heart—and part of the story behind every piece in our newest collection. When I design, I think about how the sand felt between my toes, the light on the water, and the way these places make me feel: free, soft, a little wild, and very much myself.


👉 Planning your own Galápagos island tour?
Don’t forget your Kawaii Memories bikini. It’s more than a look—it’s a love letter to the islands.

🩱 Explore the Collection
🌺 [Follow the island mood on Instagram → @kawaiimemories]

Estefanía Gallegos Velasco