Sea Caves & Endemic Marine Life Coastal Walk
Walk the dramatic volcanic coastline of Cumberland Bay, exploring sea caves and observing the Juan Fernández fur seal colony that almost went extinct.
- 1
Village Beach South End
Head south along the rocky shoreline past colourful fishing boats pulled up on the black volcanic sand beach at the edge of the village.
- 2
Fur Seal Rocks
Juan Fernández fur seals bask on the coastal rocks — this species was hunted to near-extinction by sealers in the 18th century but has recovered remarkably.
- 3
First Sea Cave
A large sea cave carved by Pacific swells into the basalt cliff can be entered at low tide; its walls are covered in colourful encrusting organisms.
- 4
Crystal Water Snorkel Spot
The water clarity in these sheltered coves is exceptional — mask and snorkel reveal endemic fish species and underwater volcanic rock formations.
- 5
Sea Arch Viewpoint
A natural basalt arch carved by the sea frames a view of the open Pacific — a dramatic spot where waves surge through with tremendous force.
- 6
Lobster Nursery Cove
A sheltered cove where juvenile Juan Fernández lobsters hide in rock crevices, protected by the island's strict seasonal fishing regulations.
Walk this route with audio
Stories play automatically as you reach each stop — no tapping needed.
