Floreana Island has a fascinating human history. Floreana Island was home to the first resident of the Galapagos Islands, an Irishman. He lived there from 1807-1809. It is also the location of the first postoffice in the group of islands that was established by the whalers in 1797. It was colonized by Ecuadorians in the 1700's, but it is still quite isolated today. It is still surrounded by mystery. In 1930, there were several disappearances. This was due to tension between a baroness (and her three servants) who arrived after a settled husband and wife. They had given birth to the first Galapagos baby. Another couple, a doctor and a female companion, lived off the land in their garden. Today's small population lives off the land and grows their own food. They also get water from the rain-filled ponds in the rainy season. The only telephone in Velasco Ibarra is in one hotel. Most residents live in the highlands. Transport is very limited. It is available only every two weeks.
Cormorant Point
Cormorant Point is another interesting and fun visitor spot. There are two beaches that can be visited. Flamingoes can also be seen swimming through brackish lagoons in search of shrimp. This gives them their vibrant and bright colors. The olivine crystals make one beach green and the other Flour Beach, a powdery white made from finely pulverized coral, is appropriately named Flour Beach.
Devil's Crown
Devil's Crown is a popular tourist site with the best snorkeling. Amazing volcanic structures have been submerged in the seafloor over time. You will find hundreds of colorful fish species amongst the coral reefs. Common visitors include sharks, sea turtles and hammerhead sharks. This underwater spectacle is something you should not miss.
Post Office Bay
Post Office Bay, a site that is completely human-influential, was established by passing whalers in 1797. It is the first officially recognized post office. Visitors continue to follow the tradition by leaving messages on postcards in the barrel for future visitors. They also pick up any post cards left by previous visitors to send home. Many visitors love this exchangeable activity.
Baroness Lookout Point is a historic viewpoint and beautiful landscape located in the north part of the island. It is named after an Austrian Baroness, who was the subject of numerous mysterious disappearances as well as well-known stories about loathing among Floreana residents.