Isabela Dive Center - Galápagos Islands

Our favourite thing about diving near the Isabela Dive Center isn't a particular species, but the sheer, unpredictable rush of the Galápagos itself. Drop in just off the coast, and you're in for a chaotic, wonderful surprise. We’ve been nudged by curious sea lions here more times than we can count, their whiskers tickling our masks as they dart past. Look closer, and the smaller stuff really pops – the bright red dots of a Redlight Goby tucked into a crevice, or the subtle patterns on an Hourglass Moray peeking out from under a rock. The currents can be a bit playful, especially in the channels, so stay alert. We’ve found that a late morning dive often hits that sweet spot after the morning rush, but before the afternoon chop really builds. You'll definitely see Blacktip sharks cruising by, keeping an eye on the schools of Galápagos Thread Herring. Keep an eye out for the Belted Blenny doing its quirky little dance, too. It’s a site that feels alive, where every dive brings something a little different.

Location
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador, South America
Coordinates
-0.956614, -90.964935

Marine Protected Area: Humedales del Sur de Isabela

Best Time to Dive in Galápagos Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Galápagos Islands occur in March, averaging 27.3°C. The coolest conditions are in September at 22.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 25.2°C
  • February: 27.0°C
  • March: 27.3°C
  • April: 26.9°C
  • May: 25.4°C
  • June: 24.3°C
  • July: 23.8°C
  • August: 23.0°C
  • September: 22.7°C
  • October: 23.1°C
  • November: 23.6°C
  • December: 23.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Galápagos Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Isabela Dive Center

Marine Life in Galápagos Islands

Home to 141 recorded species including 108 reef fish, 7 whales & dolphins, 7 sharks & rays, 6 seagrass & algae, 5 hard corals, 3 sea cucumbers.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Isabela Dive Center

Based on average water temperature of 24.7°C, currents 34 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 25°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins (stiff blade recommended for strong currents)
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories