10 Amazing Things to Do in Bocas del Toro, Panama
An archipelago for 9 main islands, 52 cays and thousands of islets, Bocas del Toro is one of the Panama’s biggest prides! I spent here over 2 months of my trip around Central and South America. There are endless things to do in Bocas del Toro. It is a gateway to some of the most gorgeous white sand beaches, lush jungles and water sports activities. And seriously, this place never disappoints!
So what is Bocas del Toro Archipelago like?
It is a perfect combination of beach relaxation and active adventure. The majestic beauty of nature is hard to describe in words. From attractive jungle hikes, stunning rock formations, incredible wildlife, vibrant nightlife, to some of the most incredible picture postcard beaches in the World.
Here is a list of 10 amazing things to do in Bocas del Toro Archipelago!
1. Swim with starfish
Known as Playa Estrella, Starfish beach is a beautiful beach located just northwest of Isla Colon. This wonderful tropical land is covered by powdery white sand, lush greenery and inhabited by the most beautiful residents that you could ever imagine, the starfish. Yes, they are spectacular! Many tourists visit Starfish beach to swim with these beautiful creatures to experience something truly unforgettable.
There are few local bars set along the coast, where you can enjoy the Caribbean vibes with a tropical cocktail in your hand.
2. Enjoy Boca del Drago beach
This laid-back beach set just before the well-known Starfish beach, is a perfect place to escape the crowds. The beautiful palm-lined coast offers isolated areas, where you can find some incredible spots for snorkeling.
Boca del Drago beach is reachable by bike (18km – around 2 hours), bus (leaves from Central Park in Bocas Town) or boat tour (offices are set in the city).
But what I remember the most about this tropical place is excellent Caribbean food. All of the restaurants are located just next to the coast. There is nothing more sweeter than a freshly fried fish served on the Caribbean beach. Such a pleasant taste of Caribbean life. I am craving for it, right now!
Any food lover wants to join here?
3. Explore Carenero Island
Isla Carenero is a short boat ride away from Isla Colon. This piece of tropical paradise is at your fingertips! If you want to beat the crowds and stay closer to Nature, it is a place to be. Walk around the island takes a couple of hours and it is so much fun! Going deeper into the lush bush, you can find plenty of fruits and be just with yourself on a real proper adventure! There are many virgin beaches to explore in Carenero Island. You can also snorkeling in the crystal clear water and discover the incredible underwater wildlife.
If you are into surfing, don’t forget to take your surfboard. There are few surf-breaks around, where you can catch some good waves.
For me, Carenero Island was always a perfect place to relax and refresh my brain. It was also a great reminder for myself that the balance between living a moment and staying focus on blogging is very important. There are plenty of small hostels and bungalows to rent, if you fall in love with this island, like me.
4. Bike to Bluff beach and Mimitimbi
So, here comes a real taste of adventure! These two places set along the coast are reachable by bike during a day trip. And believe me or not, but this 10km cycling trip feels like nothing when you reach the first spot. Bluff beach is the largest beach on Isla Colon, where you can find some of the most powerful shore-break waves. However, be aware of relatively strong and dangerous riptides here.
There is also an active Turtle Nesting area, where you observe the most magnificent creatures in the World, including leatherback and hawksbill sea turtles. Ask in the city to arrange a tour for yourself.
After having a little break on the Bluff beach, we can keep moving to Mimitimbi. The ride takes another hour to the purest beach surrounded by lush greenery. The trail is much harder than the first one and it is covered with mud especially during the rainy season. Take some snacks and plenty of water with you. Remember to start the trip in the morning to come back before it gets dark.
5. Explore Bocas del Toro town
Isla Colon is definitely the hottest spot in Bocas del Toro Archipelago. The town itself is full of colorful bars, dockside restaurants and well-equipped hostels waiting for new visitors. It becomes even more crowded at the weekends, when residents from the main island come for a short holiday.
Bocas del toro town offers plenty of stalls with artisans work, few organic shops and local markets set along the main street. If you are a sport enthusiast, you can also find here a wide range of diving courses, surfing classes and snorkeling tours. Staying few days or longer? I would recommend to rent a bike to discover better the island and to enjoy your time in true Caribbean style!
6. Bird Island
This spectacular setting is nothing else than Bird Island! This is the only place in Bocas del Toro Archipelago, where you can observe a variety of colorful birds at one place! The floating paradise is home to some of country’s top species like red-billed tropic bird, brown booby, frigate, pelican, tern and gull.
I absolutely love how the rocky formation looks like, all covered by lush green vegetation, where birds freely flying above.
7. Cayos Zapatilla
My favorite spot, along with many others, is Cayos Zapatilla, a group of two uninhabited tropical islands.
Although, it is just 40 minutes boat ride from the main town of Bocas del Toro, Cayos Zapatilla is like completely different place on Earth. I have no words for this heaven! If you want to have your little happy time of castaway, Cayos Zapatilla is all about it!
8. Isla Bastimentos
Located just 10 minutes boat ride from Bocas del Toro town, Isla Bastimentos is home to the Salt Creek indigenous community and Bastimentos National Marine Park. This place is tailor-made for chilling out, but also to catch some great adventures! I spent here over a week, discovering hidden treasures of this rich island!
The first day, I ended up walking up to the highest hill of the island, which is located in the Up in the Hill – Coffee Shop and Organic Farm. The hike starts from the Old Bank and takes around 20 min. There is a minimal signage, but follow the path and you should be fine! Another worth visit spot is the Wizard Beach reachable by boat or hike across the jungle. The walk is very pleasant, but lately I heard about some robberies around this area, so please stay safe!
There is also a Red Frog beach, the most popular one and the most crowded. Following the path along the coast, you can get to the secluded Polo Beach and meet a true Bocas legend! The only resident, who has been living there for more than 60 years.
9. Get filthy at Filthy Friday Party
Filthy Friday Party is definitely one of the craziest parties holds in Central America. This outstanding event stands out for it’s originality, good vibes, great music and a well-prepared entertainment schedule. It is something, you will never forget!
Try to imagine a one wild party taking place in 3 different magical islands! Is it even possible? Definitely yes! The boats are ready for everyone willing to have fun! Every few hours, you find yourself on a new island, a new dance floor and a new setting, but together with the same people, crazy? Yes. Fun? Definitely! Dance, jump to the water, enjoy Caribbean beat, drink tropical cocktails and meet amazing people. Filthy Friday is all about it!
Hope you will enjoy it as much as I did! Salud!
10. Take a tour around Bocas del Toro Archipelago
I love adventures full of adrenaline and wind in my hair, but I am sure I am not the only one!
Whether, you have a little time in the Bocas del Toro Archipelago or want to taste a real adventure, I would recommend to take a small tour around islands. There are lots of spots around Bocas Town, where you can arrange your trip to get the best of your time. There are boat tours to Dolphin Bay, Crawl Cay, Cayos Zapatilla, Red Frog Beach, Starfish Beach, Bird Island, Solarte Island, Bluff Beach and Mimitimbi.
Such an amazing experience to see all these spectacular islands at one day! And the best one! That was actually the first time in my life, when I have seen a group of wild dolphins, swimming and jumping next to our boat. What a joy!