Today, the National Geographic Sea Bird visited the northwest side of the Espiritu Santo Island archipelago and anchored at Ensenada Grande, a delightful little cove. We chose two beaches for hikes, snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding throughout the morning and afternoon. The northern wind blew moderately strong (as it normally does in winter), but it did not stop us in the exploration of the sea and land. During their long hike our guests and naturalists found two interesting non-poisonous snakes along the dry arroyo, one a widespread species and the other an endemic of this beautiful, pink-colored island. Some big birds, like turkey vultures, frigates and pelicans, were observed taking advantage of the rising thermals. On the beach, a tidal lagoon and mangroves which provide shelter for invertebrates, fishes, and photosynthetic algae, contrasted nicely with the dry vegetation around. In the late afternoon, we finished the day with a wonderful dinner ashore followed by stories around a bonfire about pearls, and the friendship between Steinbeck and Ricketts. And finally, some time to contemplate the sun set behind the impressive and multicolored Sierra de la Giganta.