Have questions? We're here.
Rabida Island red sand beach in the Galapagos

Rabida Island - Galapagos Travel Guide

Travel made your way
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Galapagos trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Rábida, also called Jervis Island, is a bird-watcher's delight. Some of the rarest species are in abundance, such as 9 varieties of finches, large billed flycatchers, Galapagos hawks and brown pelicans. The dark red sand beaches and a horde of snoring sea lions make for spectacular snorkeling. When you land at the beach, you will be stunned by the stark red sand (the result of very porous iron-rich lava rock). A short trail will take you to a lagoon just behind the beach where flamingos and pintails can frequently be seen. There are also many other birds that can be spotted here, including brown pelicans, Galapagos hawks, penguins, finches, and flycatchers. The mixture of beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna make this little island below Santiago a rewarading stop.
Best Galapagos Cruises & Tours

10 Best Galapagos Cruises to Rabida Island for 2023-2024

Best Galapagos Cruises & Tours

Top 10 Luxury Cruises Visiting Rabida Island for 2023-2024

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
West & Central Islands + Genovesa$89908Jun 25, 2023Enjoy an exceptional trip to the West & Central Galapagos Islands as you sail across one of the most magical destinations in the world. Discover the …
0
Western & Eastern Islands$89908Jun 10, 2023Join the M/C Elite on a spectacular 8-day small ship cruise of the Galapagos Islands. Visit San Cristobal, North Seymour, Santa Cruz, Isabela, …
0
Volcanic Wonders$92508Jun 11, 2023On this comprehensive 8-day tour of the Galapagos Islands aboard the M/V Origin, see unusual wildlife such as marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, …
0
Luxury West & Central Galapagos Cruise$67706Jun 6, 2023The Galapagos are some of the world’s most famous and beguiling islands the M/C Endemic offers you the perfect opportunity to discover and enjoy …
0
North & Central Islands$48205Jun 13, 2023Enjoy an extensive adventure into the unique world of the Galapagos on this incredible 5-day journey. Admire the incredible natural beauty of this …
0
Northern Islands$39454Jun 6, 2023Embark on this 4-day voyage scouting the central and northern islands of the Galapagos. Satisfy yourself with the majesty of the exceptional …
0
Western Islands$75627Jun 9, 2023Explore the red beaches of Rabida and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station aboard the La Pinta. Hike, snorkel, and relax on this 7-day tour of …
0
Private Charter - Western Islands Aboard La Pinta$3360617Jun 9, 2023Experience the Galapagos Islands like never before during this 7-day Western Islands private cruise aboard La Pinta. Discover the volcanic landscapes …
0
In the Steps of Darwin$72008Jun 3, 2023Discover all of the Galapagos wildlife that made the Islands famous and inspired Charles Darwin´s theory of evolution. Snorkel, swim, or kayak on …
0
Private Charter - In the Steps of Darwin Aboard Evolution$2440008Jun 3, 2023Close encounters with wildlife make your private journey a truly memorable one on this 8-day adventure. Snorkel, swim or kayak on the pristine …
0

Top Things To Do On Rabida Island

Snorkeling - There is good snorkeling right off of the red beach where you'll likely see playful sea lions - just keep an eye on the large males, as they can get defensive of their territory and agressive on land and in the water. There is even better snorkeling a few hundred meters down from the beach where cliffs provide purchase for small coral and tons of tropical fish. If you're lucky, you may see a Green Turtle or even a shark!

Hiking - There is an excellent, picturesque hike that goes from the beach, up into the Palo Santo forest where numerous species of birds, reptiles and plants can be spotted. 

Hang on the Beach - The Sea Lions keep constant company for beachgoers. Explore the brackish lagoon just behind the beach where you may spot pink flamingoes. 

Rabida Island Facts and Highlights

  • Rabida Island is famous for its stunning red sand beach, which provides a striking contrast against the turquoise waters of Pacific.
  • The island's harsh volcanic terrain and red cliffs create a dramatic landscape. The high amount of iron in the lava is the reason for the island's distinctive red color.
  • Rábida is one of the best places for visitors to observe pelicans nesting up close. Blue-footed and Nazca Boobies inhabit the island's red cliffs. A diverse array of wildlife can also be found in its shores, including sea lions and marine iguanas. Visitors will also be able to get a glimpse of its endemic species, such as the Galapagos dove and the Galapagos hawk, the archipelago's apex predator.
  • The turquoise waters around Rabida Island are teeming with marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.
  • Rabida Island has played a crucial role in several conservation efforts in the Galapagos, including the eradication of invasive species, such as the goat and rat, resulting in the restoration of native fauna and flora.
  • The island's unique geological formations that make the Galapagos Islands so distinctive, with visitors able to see volcanic cones, craters, and lava formations.
Galapagos Travel Stories & Tips

Rabida Island - Galapagos Travel Stories

Other Island Guides:

Top Rabida Travel Destinations

Rabida Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Rabida

Rabida Trips by Duration

Rabida Trips by Activity

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By