The first afternoon we visit Las Bachas, a swimming beach on northern Santa Cruz island. It is picture postcard, Caribbean style beach. Transport from the boat is via "panga" (dinghy). It is a "wet" landing, D-Day style. Waiting for us on the beach is a large marine iguana. Just inland is a salt-water lagoon where pink flamingos pose. Further down the beach is the rusted skeleton of a floating pier from WWII. Giant, bright red, Sally Lightfoot Crabs crawl on the black rocks while little red Ghost Crabs scurry along the white sand. Snorkeling off the beach follows. It is like swimming in a tropical fish tank. Later, we are joined by a better class boat full of Americans, primarily old people, fat people, and families with little kids. There is no doubt which boat's passenger manifest looks better in bathing suits. | |