Colon Island
As the largest island in the archipelago, Colon Island is home to Bocas Town, the capital city of Bocas del Toro province. This island is the most developed in the region, featuring most hotels, restaurants, and bars. Key attractions include:
- Biking Around Town: Enjoy a scenic bike ride around Bocas Town, offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. You can cool off at Paunch Beach or stroll along the expansive Bluff Beach, known for its golden sand and lush vegetation.
- Bluff Beach: A serene spot with impressive waves, perfect for those seeking a peaceful beach day. Several beachfront restaurants offer delicious meals and drinks with a view.
- Playa Estrella & Boca del Drago: Located 40 minutes from the town center, these beaches are famous for their crystal-clear, calm waters, perfect for swimming and spotting starfish. The area also has numerous local restaurants with a lively Caribbean atmosphere.
Popa Island
Popa Island, the second-largest in the archipelago, is predominantly inhabited by an indigenous community. This island is a paradise for nature lovers, with colorful reefs, mangroves, and lush forests home to toucans and other bird species. The tranquil beaches here offer solitude and are perfect for relaxation. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Zapatilla Keys.
Bastimentos Island
Bastimentos Island is a cultural gem, home to the Afro-Caribbean community of Old Bank. Highlights include:
- Punta Vieja & Macca Bite: These white-sand beaches are perfect for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant reefs and corals just offshore.
- Red Frog Beach: A popular destination for surfers, Red Frog Beach offers large waves and a stunning natural setting.
- Salt Creek & Nivida Bat Cave: Explore the wildlife-rich Salt Creek village, just a 30-minute boat ride from Isla Colon. Nearby, the Nivida Bat Cave offers an adventurous experience through mangrove forests and an underground lake.
Zapatillas Keys
These two small islands, surrounded by golden sand beaches and coral reefs, are part of the Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park. The clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, and you may spot endangered hawksbill turtles nesting on the shores.
San Cristobal Island
San Cristobal Island is famous for Dolphin Bay, where you can see dolphins in their natural habitat. A visit to the island isn’t complete without joining the “Trail of Cacao” tour, where you can learn about cacao harvesting and production from the local Ngabe Buglé community. You’ll also have the chance to participate in a traditional lunch preparation.
Cayo Agua Island
Cayo Agua is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts, with abundant snapper and other fish species. After a day of fishing, local restaurants can cook your catch with a Caribbean twist, offering a fresh and flavorful dining experience.
Solarte Island
Solarte Island’s Punta Hospital is renowned for its excellent snorkeling and diving spots. Here, you can encounter a variety of marine life, including lobsters, moray eels, and colorful coral formations.
Carenero Island
A 5-minute boat ride from Bocas Town, Carenero Island, is perfect for a quick getaway. Despite its small size, the island offers many activities, such as surfing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and hiking. You’ll also find diverse restaurants serving seafood, international dishes, and vegetarian options.
Bird Island
Bird Island is the top spot for bird-watching in Bocas del Toro. This rock formation is a sanctuary for a variety of bird species, including the exotic brown booby and red-billed tropicbird.
Where to Stay
Bocas Town on Colon Island is the most popular place to stay. It offers easy access to shops, tours, ATMs, medical care, taxis, local cultural experiences, ferries, and the airport.
The main difference between staying on Isla Colon and the other islands is the mode of transportation. While Bocas Town has roads and streets for cars and bicycles, the other islands require boat travel. Staying in Bocas Town allows you to explore the different islands during the day and return to enjoy the vibrant nightlife with various restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
Plan Your Stay
We recommend reviewing your travel destinations, schedules, and fares upon arrival. We’re happy to offer personalized advice and recommendations to ensure you have the best experience in Bocas del Toro.
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