South Plaza Cruise Port
Galapagos
About South Plaza Cruise Port
Port Overview
South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, Ecuador, has no docking; ships anchor offshore with zodiacs to rocky shores. Travelers explore cactus forests and sea lion colonies. Excursions include wildlife hikes. No facilities exist; provisions are ship-based. The peak season, December to May, brings warm weather for wildlife tours. Photography captures iguanas and Galapagos vistas. Dining onboard includes ceviche, a Galapagos favorite. Souvenirs, like marine crafts, are sold in ship shops. Briefings cover Galapagos ecology. Light clothing and sun protection suit the tropical climate, while sturdy shoes enhance island walks. South Plaza’s wild allure offers a vibrant Ecuadorian stop. Cruise travelers enjoy a mix of unique wildlife and coastal beauty, making South Plaza an engaging destination.
South America
Galapagos
83°F / 72°F
avg high / low in March
🚢 Itineraries
154
cruise itineraries
🎯 Excursions
50
available excursions
🛡️ Safety Score
8.5 / 10
#47 of 189 in South America
Quick Links
Click the quick links below to get to any of the following cruise port sections.
Cruises to South Plaza
South Plaza Upcoming Cruise Itineraries
7 nightsfrom $11,595
Celebrity Flora
Celebrity Cruise Line
7 Night Galapagos Outer Loop (Baltra Roundtrip)
7 nightsfrom $13,164Celebrity Flora
Celebrity Cruise Line
7 Night Galapagos Outer Loop (Baltra Roundtrip)
7 nightsfrom $20,496Celebrity Flora
Celebrity Cruise Line
7 Night Galapagos Outer Loop (Baltra Roundtrip)
South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos
Cruise Port Location
South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is located in the eastern part of the Galapagos Islands, off the coast of Ecuador. It is a small island with a population of around 200 people. The port is located on the south side of the island, and is a popular destination for cruise ships. The port is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands. There are several beaches and trails to explore, as well as a variety of wildlife to observe.
What to Do
South Plaza Top Activities & Attractions
South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is known for its incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore the island's unique flora and fauna, including giant tortoises, iguanas, and sea lions. There are also plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and diving, with crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine life. Hiking trails offer stunning views of the island and its surrounding islands, while kayaking and boat tours provide a unique way to explore the area. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Charles Darwin Research Station, where they can learn about the conservation efforts taking place in the Galapagos.
South Plaza Fun Facts
Unique Wildlife
South Plaza Island is home to a variety of unique wildlife, including the Galapagos land iguana, the swallow-tailed gull, and the red-billed tropicbird. The island is also home to a large population of sea lions, which can often be seen lounging on the beach or swimming in the waters around the island. South Plaza is also a great place to spot a variety of other marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and a variety of colorful fish.
South Plaza Cruise Port Excursions
South Plaza Popular Shore Tours
Explore the best excursions and tours near South Plaza cruise port. From guided sightseeing to adventure activities, find the perfect way to make the most of your time at this cruise port.
Cruise Port Schedule
South Plaza Cruise Port Ships & Passenger Count
How many people will be in South Plaza cruise port during your visit? Which other ships will be docked? Use the date selector below to find cruise port traffic for South Plaza on any date.
No ships scheduled
No cruise ships are in port at South Plaza on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
South Plaza Cruise Terminals
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Cruise Ship Terminal
The Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Cruise Ship Terminal is located in the port of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on the island of San Cristobal in the Galapagos Islands. It is the second largest port in the archipelago and is the main port of entry for cruise ships visiting the eastern islands of the Galapagos. The terminal offers a variety of services for cruise ships, including refueling, provisioning, and waste disposal. It also has a passenger terminal with a waiting area, restrooms, and a snack bar.
Explore South Plaza Cruise Port
South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is a popular cruise port for visitors looking to explore the unique wildlife and landscapes of the Galapagos Islands. Excursions typically involve guided hikes through the island's lush vegetation, where visitors can observe the endemic species of birds, reptiles, and mammals. Snorkeling and kayaking trips are also popular, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant coral reefs and observe the diverse marine life. Other excursions include visits to the island's white-sand beaches, where visitors can relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding islands.
South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is home to two stunning beaches. The first is Bachas Beach, a white sand beach with crystal clear waters and a variety of wildlife. The beach is a nesting site for sea turtles and a great spot for snorkeling. The second beach is Las Bachas Beach, a stunning beach with white sand and turquoise waters. It is a great spot for swimming and snorkeling, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, marine iguanas, and sea turtles. Both beaches are perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.
Las Grietas
Las Grietas is another popular beach near South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port. It is a unique beach with a deep crevice that runs through the middle of it. The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is also a great spot for bird watching and exploring the unique rock formations. It is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding islands.
Playa de los Alemanes
Playa de los Alemanes is a popular beach near South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port. It is a stunning white sand beach with crystal clear waters and a variety of wildlife. The beach is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. It is also a great place to relax and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding islands. The beach is also a great spot for bird watching and exploring the unique rock formations.
Tortuga Bay
Tortuga Bay is one of the most popular beaches near South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port. It is a stunning white sand beach with crystal clear waters and a variety of wildlife. The beach is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. It is also a great place to relax and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding islands.
South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is known for its souvenir shops, which offer a wide variety of items such as t-shirts, hats, postcards, and other items related to the Galapagos Islands. There are also a few small stores that sell local crafts and handmade items.
Galapagos Souvenir Shop
Galapagos Souvenir Shop is a great place to find unique souvenirs from the Galapagos Islands. They have a wide selection of items, from t-shirts and hats to jewelry and postcards. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always willing to help you find the perfect souvenir. Prices are reasonable, and they offer free shipping on orders over $50.
Galapagos Artisan Market
Galapagos Artisan Market is a great place to find handmade souvenirs from the Galapagos Islands. They have a wide selection of items, from t-shirts and hats to jewelry and postcards. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always willing to help you find the perfect souvenir. Prices are reasonable, and they offer free shipping on orders over $50.
Galapagos Gift Shop
Galapagos Gift Shop is a great place to find unique and memorable souvenirs from the Galapagos Islands. They have a wide selection of items, from t-shirts and hats to jewelry and postcards. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always willing to help you find the perfect souvenir. Prices are reasonable, and they offer free shipping on orders over $50.
South Plaza Weather Forecast
Average Monthly Weather
March
Typical Weather
Average High
Average Low
Rainfall
Daily average
1.9 in monthly total
South Plaza Cruise Port FAQ
Quick answers about South Plaza cruise port covering location, safety, weather, excursions, and more.
South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port is located in South America. South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is located in the eastern part of the Galapagos Islands, off the coast of Ecuador. It is a small island with a population of around 200 people. The port is located on the south side of the island, and is a popular destination for cruise ships. The port is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands. There are several beaches and trails to explore, as well as a variety of wildlife to observe.
Yes, South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is a great cruise port. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, offering stunning views of the Galapagos Islands and a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, iguanas, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can also explore the island's beaches, snorkel, and take part in a variety of other activities.
South Plaza cruise port has a safety score of 8.5 out of 10, ranking #47 of 189 ports in South America. South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is a very safe cruise port. The Galapagos Islands are a protected area, and the Ecuadorian government has strict regulations in place to ensure the safety of visitors. The port is monitored by the Ecuadorian Navy and the Galapagos National Park, and there are no reports of crime or other safety issues in the area.
In March, South Plaza cruise port has average high temperatures of 83°F (29°C) and average lows of 72°F (22°C).
There are currently 50 excursions and tours available at South Plaza cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.
South Plaza cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Kayaking, Snorkeling, Hiking. South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is known for its incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore the island's unique flora and fauna, including giant tortoises, iguanas, and sea lions. There are also plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and diving, with crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine life. Hiking trails offer stunning views of the island and its surrounding islands, while kayaking and boat tours provide a unique way to explore the area. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Charles Darwin Research Station, where they can learn about the conservation efforts taking place in the Galapagos.
1. Galapagos Car Rental: Located just a few minutes away from South Plaza, Galapagos Car Rental offers a wide selection of vehicles for rent, including cars, SUVs, and vans. They offer competitive rates and provide 24-hour roadside assistance.2. Galapagos Rent a Car: Located a few blocks away from South Plaza, Galapagos Rent a Car offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including cars, SUVs, and vans. They offer competitive rates and provide 24-hour roadside assistance.3. Galapagos Car Hire: Located a few minutes away from South Plaza, Galapagos Car Hire offers a wide selection of vehicles for rent, including cars, SUVs, and vans. They offer competitive rates and provide 24-hour roadside assistance.4. Galapagos Car Rental Agency: Located a few blocks away from South Plaza, Galapagos Car Rental Agency offers a variety of vehicles for rent, including cars, SUVs, and vans. They offer competitive rates and provide 24-hour roadside assistance.
The Santa Cruz II Galapagos Cruise offers free wifi access to its passengers. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafes in the South Plaza area that offer wifi access, including Cafe de la Plaza, La Casa de la Plaza, and La Terraza.
The address of South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port is Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, Ecuador.
There are no cruise ships scheduled at South Plaza today. Use the Cruise Port Traffic tool above to check the cruise schedule for South Plaza on any past or future date.