Cot­­ton-white sands, deep blue waters, and pris­tine shore­lines make this a dreamy des­ti­na­tion for true nature lovers. Tor­tu­ga Bay is a pro­tect­ed area, which means the tur­tles, igua­nas, and birds own the beach, and you are just a guest – walk­ing the pris­tine sands is allowed, but no swim­ming or water sports are per­mit­ted to make sure the ani­mals aren’t dis­turbed.

For those who want to dip their toes in the water, try surf­ing or use a kayak, there’s a sep­a­rate cove where water use is allowed – though you’ll be shar­ing the waters with white-tip reef sharks.

The bay is only acces­si­ble via a 20-minute water-taxi ride or a 2.5‑kilometer walk from near­by Puer­to Ayo­ra town – more than worth it for the sweep­ing wild beau­ty you’ll find when you get here.