Concha de Perla is a mangrove-fringed natural lagoon beside the boat pier at Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island, Galápagos. You enter for free down a wooden deck with ladder steps into calm, sheltered water, which makes it the archipelago's go-to beginner snorkel spot. Depths run from about 1 metre in the shallows to a maximum of roughly 4 metres, with visibility of 8–15 metres at low tide, and you can share the water with curious sea lions, green sea turtles, marine iguanas and rays. Lucky visitors even swim alongside Galápagos penguins, which is why it is billed as one of the best places on Earth to snorkel with penguins. As of 2026 the lagoon remains free and self-guided, managed within the Galápagos National Park.
Highlights
A calm, wave-free mangrove lagoon that suits first-timers and children
Close, playful encounters with inquisitive Galápagos sea lions
Reliable sightings of green sea turtles, marine iguanas and diamond/eagle rays
A rare chance to swim beside Galápagos penguins when you're lucky
Free, self-guided entry via a wooden deck and ladders, about a 20-minute walk from Puerto Villamil
Good to know
SafetyAt high or incoming tide a rip current forms on the right side of the cove and the surface turns choppy. Enter at low tide and use the left stairs then. This is a genuine hazard for beginners, so always check the tide table first.
SafetySea urchins are abundant on the lagoon floor and rocks. Don't stand on the bottom or grab rocks bare-handed; stay buoyant and avoid touching down in the shallows.
SafetySea lions are usually gentle, but territorial males and mothers with pups can turn aggressive. Never corner them — keep your distance and pass slowly.
SafetyFrom July to October the cold Humboldt Current can drop water temperatures to 16–22°C, risking hypothermia on long sessions. A wetsuit is recommended; avoid snorkeling alone and carry a buoy or float.
RulesUnder Galápagos National Park rules, access to the recovering coral area is prohibited. Do not stand on or touch coral or wildlife, and note that leaving the marked swim zone toward Las Tintoreras beyond the lagoon requires a licensed guide.
RulesKeep at least 2 metres from all wildlife; feeding and touching are forbidden. Apply reef-safe sunscreen before entering the water.
MannersSea lions often rest on the wooden deck and walkway — give them the right of way, never wake or touch a sleeping animal, and don't chase turtles or penguins; keep a respectful distance.
Practical info
Reach it via a roughly 20-minute walk (or 5-minute taxi) from Puerto Villamil to the boat pier, then a 3-minute mangrove boardwalk; entry is free and open year-round (the lagoon itself needs no ticket or guide, though the Tintoreras excursion beyond it does require a licensed tour). Time your visit for low tide for clearer, safer water, and confirm current fees, tour requirements, opening hours and tide times locally before you go.
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