Discover the Best Kayaking and Paddleboarding Adventures in Bocas del Toro, Panama
Is there anything nicer than paddling across calm, glass-like waters? Gliding silently, taking in the serene landscapes, and connecting with nature while getting a great workout feel like a dream! At Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel, we offer kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) to help our guests experience these peaceful moments on the water.
In this post, we’ll share some of the top kayaking and paddleboarding routes in Bocas del Toro, Panama, all easily reachable from our hotel in Bocas Town. Get ready to explore stunning marine life, hidden gems, and remote beaches during your stay.
Prepare for Your Paddling Adventure
Before heading out, we recommend bringing a mask and snorkel to fully enjoy the diverse marine life of Bocas del Toro. If you’re paddling with a buddy, you can take turns exploring the underwater world while the other relaxes on the board, floating on the sea. Don’t worry if you didn’t pack snorkeling gear—we provide free snorkeling equipment for our guests!
Explore the Sunken Plane and Marine Life
As soon as you paddle away from our dock, you’ll encounter one of Bocas del Toro’s unique underwater attractions: a sunken plane. It’s perfect for marine life lovers and is shallow enough for a free dive. You’ll also find a sunken boat and a heart-shaped environmental sculpture, all perfect spots for snorkeling. These attractions are a hit with kids and adults alike.
Paddle to Bocas Marina and Floating Bar
If you take the right route from our dock, you’ll pass through a line of moored boats and eventually reach Bocas Marina. It’s an ideal place to grab lunch while enjoying beautiful ocean views. Paddle further, and you’ll arrive at the Floating Bar, where you can tie up your kayak or paddleboard, cool off with a swim, and enjoy a refreshing drink. Be sure to stay for sunset—the view from the second floor is incredible!
Snorkel at Punta Manglar
Just beyond the Floating Bar, you’ll find Punta Manglar, a popular snorkeling spot marked by a white buoy. You’ll encounter vibrant coral formations, parrotfish, rays, and even elusive seahorses here. Snorkeling in Bocas del Toro offers some of the most stunning marine life sightings!
Safety tip: Boats frequently pass through this area, so ensuring they can see you is important. We recommend tying your paddleboard or kayak to your foot while snorkeling to act as a buoy and help boats avoid unwanted interactions.
Visit the Sunken Ferry
If you’re still up for more exploration, continue paddling from Punta Manglar, and you’ll find another buoy marking a second snorkeling site. This area features a sunken ferry resting underwater for over 17 years. On clear days, you can even spot it from the surface. This site also offers shallower waters for those who want to explore the diverse marine life without diving too deep.
Paddle to Isla Carenero
For another exciting route, paddle left along the coast from Isla Colón (where our hotel is located) until you see Isla Carenero with its stunning palm-lined beaches. The journey takes about 30 minutes and provides an excellent workout.
Carenero’s beaches, like Bibi’s on the Beach and La Punta, are known for their calm waters, which are perfect for swimming and relaxing. You can leave your kayak or paddleboard on the Beach while enjoying a quiet swim. For a meal, try Leaf Eaters (a vegetarian restaurant) or Bibi’s on the Beach for a beachfront dining experience.
Adventure to Isla Solarte and Punta Hospital
If you’re feeling adventurous, paddle out to Isla Solarte and visit Punta Hospital, one of the best snorkeling spots in Bocas del Toro. This remote paradise is known for its tranquil atmosphere and vibrant coral reefs. The paddle takes about an hour, but it’s worth it for the breathtaking sights.
At Punta Hospital, you’ll find a narrow coral wall perfect for shallow snorkeling and freediving. Leave your kayak or paddleboard at the buoys while you explore the reef.
Safety Tips for Paddling and Snorkeling in Bocas del Toro
- Always ensure that other boats can see you when paddling or snorkeling.
- Secure your paddleboard or kayak to yourself when snorkeling to act as a visible marker.
- Be mindful of the time and daylight to ensure you have plenty of energy for your return journey.
Bocas del Toro is a true water sports paradise, with so much to explore both above and below the water. Whether paddling across the bay, snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, or visiting remote islands, you’ll create unforgettable memories.
Plan Your Kayaking Adventure in Bocas del Toro
At Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel, we’re excited to help you discover all the incredible paddleboarding and kayaking experiences Bocas del Toro offers. Book your stay with us and enjoy complimentary access to kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and snorkeling equipment!
If you’re ready to plan your unforgettable adventure in Bocas del Toro, we invite you to explore the various accommodation options at Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel. You can quickly check our availability and rates by clicking here.
