Rábida Island

Rábida Island is a volcanic formation in the Galápagos archipelago known for its distinctive red-hued rock formations and dark sand beaches. The island features rocky outcrops and coastal cliffs shaped by ancient lava flows.

The island was initially named by British naval explorers but was later renamed to honor a Spanish monastery with Columbus connections. This dual naming reflects the layers of European exploration in the Galápagos.

Marine researchers frequent this uninhabited island to study its salt water lagoon system and document the native species populations throughout the year.

Access to the island is by boat excursion only, typically departing from nearby settlements on other Galápagos islands. Plan visits during calmer sea conditions, as landing requires boating to sandy shores.

The rocks and soil here contain high amounts of iron oxide, which gives them their striking deep red color throughout the landscape. This mineral composition makes the island visually distinctive among all the Galápagos formations.