Where are the best places to stay in Bocas del Toro?
By Amanda Smith. October 16, 2023
Nestled in the northwestern corner of Panama, Bocas del Toro is a captivating and enchanting archipelago that beckons to travelers seeking tropical paradise. It is emerging as an attractive bucket-list destination with its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse marine life, and provides a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion in the heart of the Caribbean. Each of its 9 main islands offer unique attractions such as surfing, beach exploring, wildlife watching, and indigenous culture encounters.
The best places to stay in Bocas del Toro ultimately depend on your preferences. The majority of visitors stay in Bocas Town where you are close to an assortment of restaurants and nightclubs as well as a wide variety of lodging options. If you are looking to catch the best waves, Isla Carenero, Playa Bluff or Big Creek to Paunch Beach are the spots for you. On the contrary, you should book a room on Red Frog Beach or Boca del Drago if you desire a relaxing vacation where you can swim on the most beautiful beaches and be amongst nature.
Is immersion in the local culture invaluable to your trip? Then staying in Old Bank on the island of Bastimentos is a great choice with its kind residents and relaxed vibe. For our nature enthusiasts and adventurous travelers, you might want to consider staying in one of the outer islands of Cristobal or Popa. However if traveling far from Bocas Town seems daunting, choose Isla Solarte for its adventurous possibilities and nearby location.If you’re interested in finding out where to stay in Bocas del Toro you may also want to know where to stay in Panama City.
Best places to stay in Bocas del Toro
Bocas Town (Isla Colon)
Best for Backpackers and Nightlife Enthusiasts
Bocas Town pulsates with a vibrant atmosphere and is the heart of Bocas del Toro. Staying in town is best for backpackers and travelers looking to be near all of the conveniences and the lively bars and nightclubs. Accommodations range from budget hostels to luxury hotels.
Its active waterfront promenade is lined with colorful Caribbean-style buildings, bustling bars, surf shops and restaurants serving delectable seafood. The town’s nightlife is equally spirited, with reggae beats filling the air and local celebrations adding an authentic touch to the experience.
The majority of travelers typically start and end their journeys in Bocas Town, whether arriving from the airport or ferry docks. Even if your accommodation is elsewhere, you’ll likely venture there for dining and shopping. Additionally, it serves as a gateway for exploring the nearby islands, making it the ideal choice if you prefer accommodations with easy access to amenities and an upbeat atmosphere.
Isla Carenero
Best for Surfers
Staying on Isla Carenero is an enticing choice for surfers and travelers seeking a tranquil setting that is super close to the amenities. This charming island is just a short water taxi ride from Bocas Town and also has a handful of charming waterfront restaurants and bars, offering cocktails with stunning sunset views.
Isla Carenero provides a serene retreat from the more bustling Bocas Town. Its laid-back ambiance, devoid of noisy vehicles, creates a peaceful setting for relaxation. The island’s stunning beaches, fringed with swaying palm trees, invite visitors to walk and unwind in a serene tropical paradise.
Sightseers can find cozy beachfront cabins and bungalows that provide a rustic and laid-back island experience. There are also boutique eco-lodges and upscale resorts offering comfortable accommodations.
Isla Carenero’s tranquility, natural beauty, water-based activities, and proximity to Bocas Town make it an alluring choice for a memorable stay in Bocas del Toro.
Isla Solarte
Best for Nature Adventurers
Vacationers seeking an enchanting and off-the-beaten-path experience in Bocas del Toro should consider staying on Isla Solarte. This lesser-known gem in the archipelago offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility that sets it apart.
First and foremost, Isla Solarte boasts lush raw rainforests, making it a haven for nature lovers to hike and go birding. The calm waters surrounding the island make it perfect for exploring the mangroves by kayak or paddleboard.
The island’s marine life in the surrounding waters is also a main attraction. Snorkeling and diving opportunities abound with the vibrant coral reefs just offshore.
Isla Solarte is home to various eco-lodges and resorts, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings while enjoying comfortable accommodations and delicious local cuisine. If you seek a tranquil retreat with nearby access to Bocas Town, Isla Solarte is a hidden paradise that promises a memorable and authentic experience.
Playa Bluff (Isla Colon)
Best for Adventurous Families and Sunbathers
Playa Bluff is an unforgettable beachfront experience. This pristine stretch of coastline offers a captivating destination for a variety of travelers.
Playa Bluff is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. Stretching for miles along the Caribbean Sea, the shore boasts soft golden sands, powerful waves, and lush tropical vegetation and is home to nesting sea turtles. It’s a paradise for advanced surfers, sunbathers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
The remote location and miles of beach ensures tranquility and seclusion can always be found. Be aware that this location is not optimal for swimming as the waves are some of the biggest and most powerful in the area.
The coastline is home to several eco-friendly accommodations and beachfront cabanas, offering a chance to stay just steps away from the ocean. Waking up to the sound of crashing waves and the sight of the sunrise over the sea is a truly magical experience.
Red Frog Beach (Isla Bastimentos)
Best for Beachgoers and Adventure Seekers
Visitors in search of an idyllic tropical paradise in Bocas del Toro should strongly consider staying on Red Frog Beach. This picturesque destination offers a wealth of compelling reasons to make it your base for exploration and relaxation.
Above all, Red Frog Beach itself is a breathtaking stretch of powdery white sand, fringed by lush rainforests and surrounded by clear azure waters. Its natural beauty is truly captivating, offering a perfect backdrop for sunbathing and swimming.
The star attraction is the red poison dart frogs that inhabit the surrounding rainforest, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Red Frog Beach Resort offers an array of activities, from zip-lining through the jungle canopy to hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking, ensuring there’s always something exciting to do.
Accommodations on Red Frog Beach include luxurious eco-lodges and seaside villas providing a comfortable and sustainable stay, often offering stunning ocean views and easy access to the waterfront.
Old Bank (Isla Bastimentos)
Best for Cultural Aficionados
Want to know how the locals live in Bocas del Toro? Travelers looking for a traditional, authentic experience should consider staying in Old Bank on the island of Bastimentos. This charming village offers a unique and immersive experience unlike any other.
Old Bank Bastimentos has preserved its traditional Caribbean charm, with colorful wooden houses, friendly locals, and a laid-back atmosphere. Staying here provides a glimpse into the Afro-Caribbean way of life, far removed from the tourist crowds. The village serves as a gateway to exploring Bastimentos Island with short walks to nearby beaches and other natural wonders which offer opportunities for snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife watching.
Accommodations in Old Bank range from cozy guest houses to eco-friendly lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay while supporting the local community. Moreover, Old Bank Bastimentos is known for its delicious Caribbean cuisine, with local eateries serving up fresh seafood and flavorful dishes that showcase the region’s culinary heritage.
Big Creek to Paunch Beach (Isla Colon)
Best for Surfers and Adventurous Couples
Staying between Big Creek and Paunch Beach offers visitors a unique and enticing experience. Mainly, this location strikes a perfect balance between tranquility and accessibility. It’s a short distance from Bocas Town, allowing easy access to its amenities, yet it offers a quieter and more serene atmosphere away from the bustling crowds.
The stunning Paunch Beach, known for its consistent surf breaks and golden sands, is a highlight for water sports enthusiasts. Surfing and swimming are right at your doorstep.There is also easy access to the rainforest trails in this area. You can rent quads and cruise the surrounding jungles looking for caves, monkeys and secret beaches. Scooters, e-bikes and motorcycles are also available for exploring.
Additionally, the area is dotted with lodges and boutique accommodations, often along the waterfront. These options provide a comfortable and sustainable stay, complete with ocean views and the soothing sound of waves.
Boca del Drago
Best for Families and Calm Beach Lovers
Boca del Drago Beach is a tranquil, quiet destination on Isla Colón offering a pristine stretch of soft, golden sand lined with coconut palms, where calm turquoise waters meet the shore. It’s a picturesque paradise that is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and gentle strolls along the coast.
The area is renowned for its natural beauty, including the iconic Starfish Beach nearby, where vibrant orange sea stars dot the shallows. Boca del Drago is also home to lush mangrove forests, offering opportunities for kayaking and birdwatching.
Although the location is secluded, there is a bus that offers services between Bocas Town and Boca del Drago daily. This makes it an easy way to have the best of both worlds.
Accommodations near Boca del Drago range from rustic beachfront cabanas to eco-friendly lodges, often nestled in lush tropical gardens. They provide a serene and comfortable stay with easy access to the coast.
Outer Islands (Isla Popa and Isla Cristobal)
Best for the Adventurer at Heart
Two other appealing islands in the archipelago where you can stay and have unique experiences are Isla Cristobal and Isla Popa. These islands are located the farthest away from Bocas Town and offer unique and immersive experiences that capture the essence of the Caribbean’s natural beauty.
On Isla Cristobal, you’ll find eco-lodges that blend harmoniously with the lush rainforests and pristine beaches. These lodges prioritize sustainability and often offer spacious bungalows or cabins with panoramic views of the surrounding nature. Guests can enjoy guided hikes through the rainforest, birdwatching, paddleboarding and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
Isla Popa, known for its serene atmosphere and rich biodiversity, boasts boutique lodges that emphasize tranquility and exclusivity. These accommodations offer a more intimate experience, with personalized service and luxurious amenities. Visitors can explore the island’s mangroves, enjoy virgin, secluded beaches, and relax in the lap of luxury amid the natural surroundings.
Our recommended hotels in Bocas del Toro
Use the interactive map to navigate through our recommended hotels in Bocas del ToroNote: Hotel prices can change daily due to promotions, seasons, and demand. Our $ - $$$$ scale shows the overall cost range rather than exact prices.
