Plazas - Galápagos Islands

Plazas is a funny one in the Galápagos, often overshadowed by the bigger, pelagic-heavy sites. But we love it for its sheer density of *small stuff*, and a surprising amount of unique local residents you just don't get everywhere else. You'll find yourself drifting along a volcanic wall, the surge gently rocking you, as you spot more Galápagos Triplefin Blennies than you thought possible. They’re everywhere, darting between the rocks, little flashes of red. Keep an eye out for the Galápagos Barnacle Blenny too, poking its head out like it owns the place. Visibility here can be a bit variable, but when it’s good, it’s a colourful show. We've often found ourselves eye-level with curious Odd Highhats or watched Grape-eye Seabass patrol the ledges. The Green Spiny Lobsters are pretty bold here, often out of their crevices. It’s less about the big thrill and more about the intricate details, the way light filters through the water onto the strange small-leaf spiderwort clinging to the rocks above the waterline. This is a site for the patient observer, someone who enjoys slowing down and truly exploring the nooks and crannies. If you're into macro life and unique endemic species, Plazas is our pick for a really satisfying, unhurried dive.

Location
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador, South America
Coordinates
-0.579643, -90.159750

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 Plazas

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 Plazas

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