Explore the Archipelago of Bocas del Toro in Panama
How to Get to Bocas del Toro
Best Time of Year to Visit : January-mid April
Having said that, Bocas del Toro does have very unpredictable weather and no fixed dry season like other tropical destinations. So just be warned! However, hit it right and it is glorious.
By Air – a 45 minute flight from Panama City
By Land – drive to Puerto Almirante, where you will need to take a 35-minute boat to Isla Colon. You can leave your car in a secure parking facility in Puerto Almirante whist you spend a few days on the islands.
I have written about the San Blas Islands in my Destinations page and written a blog about my catamaran trip to these islands. Similarly, Bocas de Toro is also located on the Caribbean Sea side of Panama and enjoys many of the same characteristics.
Bocas del Toro is the north-westernmost province of Panama, very close to the border with Costa Rica. The Bocas Archipelago consists of 9 islands and thousands of islets. Depending on where you are staying, many hotels will pick you up and drop you off at their hotel pier.
What to Expect in Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro is a popular destination for laid back living, beach loves and water activities. Its crystal clear waters are blessed with a constant temperature of 79oC (26oC). It is also home to colourful coral reefs, sponges and a vast array of underwater life – including sting rays, star fish, sea horses and nurse sharks,
Consequently, these beautiful, translucent waters are a magnet for divers and snorkelers alike. There are also fantastic surfing spots in Bocas and their waves draw in surfers from around the world.
In addition to the beautiful waters, Bocas del Toro is a great place for eco travellers. It is an area with dense forest teeming with tropical birds and amphibians. Believe it or not, sloths actually have their own island in Bocas. Sloth Island can be visited by boat on a day trip. You are not permitted to go on the island but you can watch from the boat.
Let’s face it you can never tire of watching sloths. They don’t actually do anything but at the same time they are simply fascinating!
The main Islands in Bocas del Toro
These islands are a short water taxi away from each other and hopping around these islands and others is very popular. In fact the main mode of visiting attractions here is generally by boat.
Isla Colón
This is the main island and the provincial capital, Bocas Town, is found here. There is also a small international airport which makes travelling here much easier. Unlike its sister islands, Isla Colón does have paved roads, which makes getting around by bike, on foot, or taxi very easy.
Although, this is the most developed island of the archipelago, it is still a rustic fishing community and very characterful. There are an array of lodgings with docks on the sea, a variety of tours and activities, restaurants, cafes, stores, ATM’s and nightlife.
Make sure you pay a visit to Star Beach, a stunning beach with hundreds of starfish dotting the ocean floor. Try to avoid the weekends and the possible overload of visitors.
Isla Bastimentos
One of the largest islands of Bocas, and the second most popular with the tourists. This island is also famous for its wildlife and marine park. It has unspoilt beaches, villas, resorts and wild waves for surfers.
Isla Carenero
Only 2 minutes away by water taxi, this is the smallest of the main tourism islands in Bocas del Toro and covers just 1km2. There are beaches, bars and hotels dotted around the island, all reached by pathway.
Isla Solarte
Isla Solarte is another small island, coming in slightly larger at 8km2! It is largely covered in lush rainforest, mangroves and coral reefs. Although there is accommodation on the island and tourists are encouraged, it is a much quieter destination.
Isla San Cristóbal
This island does not offer the same lush forests but its marine development attracts many scuba divers and snorkelers. It is an untouched piece of paradise where you can certainly connect with nature. There is a small inlet on the island, Dolphin Bay, which is home to large gatherings of dolphins. It is a highlight when visiting Bocas del Toro.
My Suggestions for Visiting these Islands
Firstly, try to avoid the rainy season. Island life is so much more enjoyable when the sun is shining and the waters are sparkling.
Bocas is great to visit and explore especially if you are visiting nearby Boquete in the west of Panama. However, if it is your destination holiday, I would strongly recommend staying off the main island of Isla Colón and make your way to the unspoilt, quieter islands.
The Nayara Bocas del Toro resort below will give you an unforgettable experience . This resort certainly ranks as a one stop destination and is up there with the best of them.
Bocas del Toro does attract a lot of visitors due to it being located on the tourist route through Central America. It is a hop over the border from those coming down from Costa Rica and en route to Panama City. Therefore, they do entice a number of global travellers passing through.
Personally, if you are in Panama, and you want to go island hopping, you must seriously consider the San Blas Islands. One way or other Panama has you covered on island hopping so do look into it.
Accommodation in Bocas del Toro
Nayara Boca del Toro is a stunning 5* luxury, adult only retreat. It boasts Balinese-inspired, over water bungalows set on its own private island. Despite its higher price tag, if you are looking for exceptional service, tranquility and pampering this is a great option.
Red Frog Beach Island Resort is set amongst beautiful grounds on on Isla Bastimentos.
Palmar Beach Lodge is situated on Red Frog Beach on Isla Bastimentos and enjoys a privileged position on the beach whilst only a 10-15 minute walk to the boat dock.