Rabida

Located south of Santiago, Rabida is one of the most volcanically varied islands in the chain. Geologically consisting of eroded hills and lava emitted from spatter cones that have resulted in island's striking colors. A visit begins with a wet landing on the deep maroon colored northern beach. 

Marine Iguanas and Sea Lions are often seen resting in the shade of the caves nearby.  Behind the beach is the salt brush home where the Brown Pelicans make their nests. Rabida may be the only opportunity visitors have to see Pelicans nesting up close. On the cliffs above the Pelicans Blue-Footed and Masked Boobies can be seen.

Following the path visitors arrive at a small saltwater lagoon where Pink Flamingos, Bahama Pintail Ducks and Common Stilts are frequently seen feeding. Rabida offers the best lagoons in the islands for viewing Flamingos. These large Pink or Reddish birds live in shallow saltwater lagoons. Feeding 7-12 hours a day primarily on the pink shrimp larva and water boatman that give them their color.

In 1971 the National Park Service successfully eradicated goats from Rabida. This introduced species upset the natural environment and led to the extinction of several native creatures including Geckos, Land Iguanas, and Rice Rats.

Continuing up the rocky red cliffs a short 15-20 minute walk leads to a cliff overhang with a fantastic view of the cove with the ocean, lagoon and scarlet cliffs. Returning back to the beach Rabida offers some very good snorkeling opportunities Sharks and Manta Rays are commonly seen.