Finch Bay Galápagos Hotel: Leading Sustainable Luxury by Ana Moya | Travel Blog

Travellers may face challenges trying to find a hotel which provides comfort, luxury and environmental responsibility. Finch Bay Hotel in Galapagos proves that, while it’s hard, it is possible. The hotel reaches an impressive success through its combination of luxurious services and eco-friendly practices on Santa Cruz Island.

Table of contents

• History of Finch Bay Hotel
  - Transition to land-based tourism
  - Sustainability and Luxury Hospitality
  - Behind “Finch Bay” Name
• A Hotel that combines Luxury with sustainability
  - Location and accessibility
  - Local fauna and guest experience
• Unmissable hotel spaces and experiences
  - National Park Exploration
  - Wellness and Spa
  - Outdoor Areas
• Gastronomy Experience
  - Open-Air Dining by the Sea
  - Culinary Highlights
• Message for Galápagos Lovers
• FAQ’s

Get ready to discover a dream journey at Finch Bay Hotel .

History of Finch Bay Hotel

Its previous name was Dolphin Hotel, it started as a boat-based establishment which was transformed to a land hotel after Metropolitan Touring acquired it.

Transition to land-based tourism

In the 1990s, the Galapagos Islands experienced a series of internal changes about the way tourism was being commercialized. Land based tourism was growing in the Galapagos, this change was an opportunity for new travelling options beyond cruise ships and a new chance for them to explore the islands at their own peace. Metropolitan Touring played an important role during these events, which started offering the hotel for their corporate meetings in the 1980s. 

Sustainability and Luxury Hospitality

The history of the union between sustainability and luxury at Finch Bay Hotel began before the presence of the park rangers in the Galapagos Islands.Finch Bay works on collaborations focused on ensuring a unique, resilient, and pristine ecosystem. There are two active projects on the protection of the whale shark and the Galapagos pink land iguana. The hotel staff is trained to optimize waste management. They actively involve a certified environmental handler, the Fabricio Valverde Recycling Center located in Santa Cruz. With its main focus on conservation, Finch Bay set a standard to other luxury hotels. 

Behind “Finch Bay” Name

“Finch Bay” name comes from the finches that live nearby the area. The main inspiration behind the name was to honor the scientific heritage that comes along its name. The finches are a symbol of evolution, resilience and change linked to Charles Darwin’s work on the theory of natural selection about how species could vary depending on their food sources. Similar to the finches' development over time, the name is a reminder of the hotel's growth within the years. To show its commitment with environmental education Finch Bay forges a deep connection between wildlife and nature, and its name reflects that it’s not just a place, but a historical and scientific site of great importance the Galapagos Island. 

Finch Bay Hotel is the result of combining luxury with nature.The hotel provides sustainable tourism experiences that involves travellers and local wildlife. 

A Hotel that combines Luxury with sustainability

Finch Bay Hotel design combines classic and luxury accommodations. The hotel adds the essence of the Galapagos through the authentic Galapagos Islands elements. The main objective is to preserve conservation efforts and introduce them into guests experiences. 

The hotel is successful in accomplishing guest comfort connected with the Galapagos natural environment. Each feature in the hotel such as open spaces and large windows provide direct access to natural surroundings. Finch Bay reaches the perfect balance with nature, its environmental efforts allow it to create unique experiences while protecting wildlife, habitats and ecosystems. 

Location and accessibility

Finch Bay hotel is located just 1 km from Santa Cruz main airport, in front of the “Playa de los Alemanes”. Travelers to the hotel must use water taxis because these vessels serve as their only transportation option which enables them to reach town areas and nearby retail stores. The absence of vehicles and noises provides a peaceful environment which helps to protect nature and wildlife.
 

Local fauna and guest experience

From the Finch Bay Hotel it’s quite easy to see unique animals such as: marine iguanas, frigates, finches, ducks and blue herons as the most common sight; Finches, for example, join some guests during breakfast, iguanas can be observed in some paths, ducks are spotted nearby the pool area and visitors can hear sounds of the Darwin’s finches from the trees. Travellers can also watch the giant tortoises during their stay. 

Unmissable hotel spaces and experiences

The Finch Bay Hotel offers astonishing areas that combine luxury with nature. Every room of the hotel shows the beauty of the Galapagos Islands. Its windows provide a unique view of the natural highlights.

National Park Exploration

Exploring the National Park is essential to truly understand the Galápagos. As Ana Moya explains, “only 3% of the entire national park is inhabited,” so yacht excursions allow guests to experience the destination’s true richness through hiking and snorkeling in pristine environments.

Wellness and Spa

The spa offers a wellness experience deeply connected to the natural surroundings. According to Moya, “the entire spa is designed… with the energy of the volcanoes,” incorporating volcanic elements into treatments for a unique and immersive sensory experience.

Outdoor Areas

The outdoor spaces provide constant interaction with nature without leaving the hotel. As she mentions, “you can be sitting by the pool and have these incredible encounters with nature,” turning every moment into an opportunity for relaxation and observation.

Gastronomy Experience

A culinary journey that blends local flavors, sustainability, and a deep connection with the natural surroundings of the Galápagos.

An experience where every dish reflects the authenticity, freshness, and essence of the islands.

Open-Air Dining by the Sea

Dining at Finch Bay goes beyond the plate, offering an unforgettable open-air experience by the ocean. Surrounded by the soothing sound of the waves and the natural beauty of the Galápagos, each moment, whether a romantic dinner under the stars or a relaxed lunch with a sea breeze, becomes a true sensory connection with the destination.

Culinary Highlights

• Ecuadorian Award-Winning Chef
• A Restaurant Open to Everyone
• Easy Access from Puerto Ayora
• Romantic Dining Experiences
• Sustainable and Local Cuisine
• Options for Every Preference
• Cocktails & Wine Selection

 

Message for Galápagos Lovers

For those seeking a deeper connection with the islands, Finch Bay offers more than a stay, it’s an authentic way to experience Galápagos. As Ana Moya shares, “it is a unique and intimate gateway to discover Galápagos in a calm, authentic, and deeply natural way,” where each moment blends nature, exploration, and a true sense of place.

FAQ’s

Who is Ana Moya?

Ana Moya is the Finch Bay Hotel operation manager. She has more than 11 years of hospitality experience and combines her excellent guest service with her leadership.

What makes Finch Bay Hotel sustainable?

The hotel solar panels, runs a pioneering water treatment system, sources locally, and has eliminated single-use plastics.

Where is Finch Bay located?

The hotel is located on Santa Cruz Island, in front of the “Playa de los Alemanes”. The only transport accessible only by a short water taxi ride from Puerto Ayora.

What activities does Finch Bay offer?

The hotel offers guests the chance to experience adventure activities through snorkeling and kayaking but they can also join guided day tours which explore Santa Cruz along with surrounding islands and wildlife observation experiences.

Where can I check online availability at Finch Bay Hotel?

You can confirm online availability just by checking the official pages.