On Santa Cruz there are really only two high-end places to stay. This is one of them, located 40 minutes south of the airport at Baltra; Royal Palm Resort is the other. Whereas Royal Palm has nicer rooms and provides TVs, its highland location a goodly drive up from the port means it is only convenient for an excursion to see the giant tortoises. Finch Bay, on the other hand, is a few minutes' walk from the port and well-suited for day trips to other parts of the Galapagos. Forays into town demand a short $.50 water taxi ride across the narrow port area.
Situated on a small beach in a cove partly protected by mangroves and near-shore volcanic rock, this is a cozy, relaxed property that is a welcome end to a long day of exploring. Prickly pear cactus and flamboyant trees breathe color into the landscape. Las Grietas, an inland water-filled natural crack in the
rock—great for snorkeling—is a 15-minute walk from here.
The property is a birdwatcher's haven: Guests are as likely to see shorebirds along the beach as by the pool, which is central to the property. The main building houses a lobby, dining area and small gift shop. Breakfast is served buffet-style, while lunch and dinner are a la carte. Guests can choose to eat inside, beside the pool on a shaded terrace, or under umbrellas at small tables. Drinks are available at the poolside bar.
A whirlpool occupies a second-floor terrace that overlooks the pool and offers nice views of the sea. Kayaks and snorkeling gear are available and a sand volleyball court pleases the energetic. An Internet station provides free access to guests in the lobby 
area and some audiovisual equipment makes a small meeting possible toward the back of the dining room.
Other than a choice between a king or two twin beds, all the accommodations are identical and set in a split level wing to the right of the lobby and facing the sea. The lightly painted rooms open to small semi-private terraces with hammocks, and boardwalks take guests over the mix of sand and native greenery that fills the property. All rooms come with remote-controlled air conditioners, ample recessed lighting, white tile floors, bamboo blinds, phones, desks, and cabinets with an abundance of storage space. Safes are standard and a carafe of drinking water is refilled as needed.
Baths are modern, shower-only affairs, with ventilation, 
tile floors and hair dryers. There is no room service, but a snack is available at any hour in the lobby. Turndown service is standard.
If you are not on an expedition cruise, or if you want some time on land, this is a very good option. The price includes breakfast, but package deals are worth the extra money for other meals and unlimited use of equipment. Eco-conscious guests may not be wowed, but the hotel does incorporate generally environmentally friendly practices and treats its own wastewater, while the grounds are in harmony with the surroundings.
Don't be surprised if finches join you for breakfast.
