The central islands of Santa Cruz and Baltra serve as the hub of tourist traffic, since the main town of Puerto Ayora and the airport are located here. The majority of organized tours and independent travelers begin and end their adventures here.

The surrounding islands--Daphne Major and Minor, North Seymour, South Plaza (and the nearby dive-site of Gordon Rocks), and Santa Fe--are thus the most visited by tourists due to their close proximity to Puerto Ayora. But they also offer some of the best opportunities for seeing seabirds and large marine creatures, like hammerhead sharks, in abundance. South Plaza is a personal favorite, since it offers one of the most interesting--and understated--panoramic views in the archipelago.