South Plaza Cruise Port
South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos
South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is a small island located off the coast of Ecuador.

The cruise port in South Plaza,
explained
South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos is a small island located off the coast of Ecuador. It is part of the Galapagos Islands, a group of islands known for their unique wildlife and stunning landscapes.
South Plaza is a small island, measuring only 0. 12 square miles, but it is home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, iguanas, and birds.
The island is also known for its dramatic cliffs and cactus-covered hillsides. Visitors to South Plaza can explore the island's unique terrain and observe the wildlife in its natural habitat.
The island is also a great spot for snorkeling and swimming, as the waters around South Plaza are teeming with colorful fish and other marine life. South Plaza is a great destination for nature lovers, offering a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat and explore the stunning landscapes of the Galapagos Islands.
Price drops on cruises to South Plaza.
61 cruises stop here in South Plaza during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each South Plaza cruise's 90-day average.
Where is South Plaza Cruise Port?
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.
- General location
- South America
- Category
- Galapagos
- Coordinates
- 0.58°S, 90.16°W
- Time zone
- Pacific/Galapagos
What to do in South Plaza
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Ways to spend the day
3 themesKayaking
Kayaking is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos. It is a great way to explore the unique coastline of the Galapagos Islands and observe the unique marine life. Kayaking is a relatively easy activity and can be done with minimal equipment. It is a great way to get up close and personal with the wildlife of the Galapagos.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos. It is a great way to explore the underwater world of the Galapagos Islands and observe the unique marine life. Snorkeling is a relatively easy activity and can be done with minimal equipment. It is a great way to get up close and personal with the wildlife of the Galapagos.
Hiking
Hiking is another popular activity for cruise passengers visiting South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos. It is a great way to explore the unique landscape of the Galapagos Islands and observe the unique flora and fauna. Hiking is a relatively easy activity and can be done with minimal equipment. It is a great way to get up close and personal with the wildlife of the Galapagos.
South Plaza cruise port beaches
3 in our guideLas 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.
Spectacular Landscape
South Plaza Island is known for its spectacular landscape, which is characterized by its rocky cliffs, cacti-covered hillsides, and white-sand beaches. The island is also home to a variety of unique vegetation, including the iconic Opuntia cactus, which is endemic to the Galapagos Islands. Visitors to South Plaza can also explore the island's many tide pools, which are home to a variety of marine life, including sea stars, sea urchins, and crabs.
Historical Significance
South Plaza Island is an important historical site, as it was the first island to be visited by Charles Darwin during his famous voyage to the Galapagos Islands in 1835. During his visit, Darwin observed the unique wildlife and vegetation of the island, which helped to shape his theory of evolution. Today, South Plaza Island is a popular destination for visitors to the Galapagos Islands, who come to explore its unique wildlife and stunning landscape.
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 shopping
3 in our guideGalapagos 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.
Which South Plaza cruise terminal will your ship use?
Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Cruise Ship Terminal
Av. Charles Darwin, Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristobal, Galapagos, EcuadorThe 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.
Puerto Villamil Cruise Ship Terminal
Av. Charles Darwin, Puerto Villamil, Isabela, Galapagos, EcuadorThe Puerto Villamil Cruise Ship Terminal is located in the port of Puerto Villamil on the island of Isabela in the Galapagos Islands. It is the third largest port in the archipelago and is the main port of entry for cruise ships visiting the western 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.
Santa Cruz Cruise Ship Terminal
Av. Charles Darwin, Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, EcuadorThe Santa Cruz Cruise Ship Terminal is located in the port of Puerto Ayora on the island of Santa Cruz in the Galapagos Islands. It is the main port of entry for cruise ships visiting the Galapagos Islands and is the largest port in the archipelago. 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.
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.
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.
Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, Ecuador
Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.
South Plaza Cruise Port Weather
- High
- 77°F
- Low
- 65°F
- Rain
- 0.3 in
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
South Plaza Cruise Port Traffic Today
No cruise ships are scheduled in South Plaza today, Thursday, September 3, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.
Also on your cruise
100% of South Plaza cruises also call at one of these.
South Plaza cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in South Plaza.
Where is South Plaza cruise port located?
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.
Is South Plaza a good cruise port to visit?
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.
How safe is South Plaza cruise port for passengers?
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.
What is the weather like at South Plaza cruise port in September?
In September, South Plaza cruise port has average high temperatures of 77°F (25°C) and average lows of 65°F (18°C).
How many excursions are available at South Plaza cruise port?
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.
What are the top things to do at South Plaza cruise port?
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.
Can I rent a car at South Plaza cruise port?
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.
What is the WiFi situation at South Plaza cruise port?
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.
Where is the cruise terminal at South Plaza cruise port?
The address of South Plaza, Santa Cruz, Galapagos cruise port is Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos, Ecuador.
What is the South Plaza Cruise Port cruise schedule?
There are no cruise ships scheduled at South Plaza today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check South Plaza on any past or future date.













