Casa Iguana Mar y Sol

Welcoming and impeccably run guesthouse a stone's throw from a sandy beach popular with sea lions.

San Cristóbal is the fifth largest and most easterly island in the Galápagos archipelago and is the second most populous. It consists of several fused extinct volcanoes and stands out for having the only freshwater lagoon.

The welcoming and impeccably run Casa Iguana Mar y Sol overlooks the bay of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, a stone's throw from the shoreline. The beach is frequented by hordes of friendly sea lions. The town, which is a provincial capital but far less touristy than Puerto Ayora, is a five-minute walk away.

The whitewashed building is stylish and contemporary, conceived and designed by its owners, with a balcony on each of its three tiers. Guestrooms are spotless, bright and airy. Each has individually carved wooden doors and shutters, a sitting room table and a large bathroom. 

An excellent home-cooked breakfast is served at the kitchen bar. There is also a lounge and an open air honesty bar on the top floor. The hotel is very well regarded by guests who appreciate the individual attention afforded by the proprietors.