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Snorkeling · Puerto Villamil, Galápagos
Concha de Perla
A calm-water cove among mangroves and lava rocks beside the Puerto Villamil pier, reached by a boardwalk and used for snorkeling with sea lions and fish.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Concha de Perla
Concha de Perla is a small protected cove beside the Puerto Villamil pier. A wooden boardwalk crosses the mangrove from the pier entrance to a platform at the water's edge, from where you enter the sea.
The water is calm and usually clear, sheltered from the waves by a barrier of lava rocks. It is one of the best places on the island for shore snorkeling: it is common to see sea lions swimming near visitors, colorful fish, rays, sea turtles and, sometimes, Galápagos penguins.
On the boardwalk and platform, sea lions often rest; do not approach or touch them.
You can visit independently during the site's opening hours.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 to 2 hours.
Best time
In the morning, when the water is calmer and clearer. Check the opening hours beforehand.
How to get there
It is beside the Puerto Villamil pier, about 1 km from the town center, on foot or by bike. The boardwalk starts near the pier entrance.
Tip
Bring a mask and snorkel, or rent them in the village. Wear a short neoprene suit (shorty): the water can be cold from June to November.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Concha de Perla
Do you need a boat for Concha de Perla?
No. You reach it on foot via the mangrove boardwalk next to the pier.
What animals can be seen at Concha de Perla?
Sea lions, colorful fish, rays, sea turtles and sometimes Galápagos penguins.
Is the water cold?
From June to November the water tends to be colder. A short neoprene suit helps.