El Gallo & La Gallina

El Gallo and La Gallina (the Rooster and Hen in English), are two small islands, off the coast of Isla Espiritu Santo, (Holy Spirit Island). They are also the names of two beautiful bays, located directly across from the islands on the larger island of Espiritu Santo. All three islands are about a two-hour boat ride from the capital city of La Paz, Baja Sur California, in the Southern area of the Sea of Cortez. The islands sit exactly opposite the bays providing some degree of protection from winds that flow in from the west towards the bays. All three islands are a part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Islas El Gallo and La Gallina are both uninhabited and relatively small, with El Gallo being the larger of the two. El Gallo is approximately 1.5 kilometers long and 0.5 kilometer wide, while La Gallina is just under 1 kilometer long and 0.5 kilometer wide. Both islands are rocky and rugged, with steep cliffs rising from the sea. They are covered in a variety of vegetation, including cacti and other desert plants.

The waters around the islands are clear and teeming with marine life, including a variety of fish, sea turtles, and sea lions. As such, they are a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors should note that both islands are protected natural areas, and as such, they are subject to certain regulations and restrictions.

El Gallo Bay and La Gallina Bay are two of the more popular bays on the island of Isla Espiritu Santo. El Gallo Bay, is located directly across from Isla El Gallo, while La Gallina Bay is located across from the small island with the same name.

El Gallo Bay is known for its clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches. It is a wonderful spot for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. The bay is also home to a colony of sea lions, which can often be seen sunbathing on the rocks or swimming nearby. La Gallina Bay is known for its calm waters and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. It is a popular spot for camping, hiking, and fishing. The bay is also home to a variety of bird species, including pelicans, frigatebirds, and blue-footed boobies. Both El Gallo Bay and La Gallina Bay are accessible only by boat.