Wildlife viewing in the Galápagos Islands reaches its peak from June through December. Keep in mind that water temperatures can be quite cool for snorkeling and scuba diving during these months. As the year progresses toward January the ocean begins to warm, which is why many residents consider the Christmas season an ideal time to visit.
The reefs and rocky shores around San Cristóbal support abundant marine life. A two-tank dive with Galapagos Underwater often visits Kicker Rock, a striking formation about one mile offshore. Divers and snorkelers here commonly encounter sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, stingrays and eagle rays. Snorkelers can swim through the channel at Kicker Rock to experience this concentrated marine environment up close.
For convenient accommodations on San Cristóbal, Casa Opuntia is an 11-room boutique hotel located on the beach. The property offers a swimming pool and a seafood restaurant noted for its ceviche, and it sits within easy walking distance of the local scuba and snorkeling operators.