Isla Grande
Enjoy the Panamanian Caribbean on an island with natural beauty in a small coastal town where you will find activities, amenities and delicious cuisine. Visit Isla Grande, in the district of Portobelo, Colon, and fall in love with the Panamanian Caribbean.

The Island
If you’re looking for a beach destination where you have everything readily available while enjoying the sea, you’re in the right place.
Although Isla Grande may sound large, this island is less than 11 square miles. With no roads or cars, it’s the perfect place to walk in the sun and enjoy the atmosphere. Although small, Isla Grande has all the services you could need. Here you can find luxury hotels, hostels, cabins and camping spots. Moreover, the island has a small population, mostly Afro-colonial, who welcome you with their hospitality and delicious cuisine.

What to do
The Caribbean offers travelers the chance to discover a natural paradise. On Isla Grande, the soft white sand beaches are always close by. Visit tranquil beaches and seaside resorts facing the turquoise sea surrounded by palm trees for a truly special experience.
If you want to explore the sea, there are diving and snorkeling options to discover the immense biodiversity of the coral reefs that surround the island. If you want more action, there are also jet ski rentals and inflatable rides such as banana boats, which will take you across the water at full speed.
Explore the island’s nature trails, and take the opportunity to visit the colorful town. Here you can see the Isla Grande pier, with the local fishermen and vendors. Experience daily life on the island, enjoy authentic dishes and discover different activities, such as tours around the island.
If you enjoy walking, visit the Isla Grande Lighthouse. The walk up to the lighthouse, at 180 feet above sea level, takes about 25 minutes. While you walk up you can see amazing vistas and take beautiful photos to share. When you reach the lighthouse, climb 112 steps to get the best views of the area.

The Black Christ
One of the most iconic points of Isla Grande is the statue of the Black Christ. The Catholic religion is directly rooted in the history of Portobelo and Isla Grande. The image of the Black Christ has great importance for the local Afro-colonial culture, with its festivities and believers, who come from different parts of the country on special occasions.
The Black Christ of Isla Grande is a large statue that appears to float on water. It’s on the reef at the entrance to the island. Due to its size, it’s very easy to locate. You’ll see it as soon as you approach the island, and also from the shore. Take the opportunity to learn about the history of the statue, known for its miracles and the faith of its believers.

Surroundings
It’s impossible to visit Isla Grande and not explore its surroundings full of adventure and incomparable scenery. At the transport cooperative, an organization of boatmen dedicated to tourism, ask to be taken to the natural pools, located just 5 minutes away by boat. You’ll find crystal-clear, turquoise water running among mangrove labyrinths. Ask the boatman to take you to Isla Mamey, where you can enjoy great snorkeling, or take a trip through the Tunnel of Love, an open water passage through the mangroves.

Getting There
To reach Isla Grande, you first have to get to the La Guaira pier, in the province of Colon. From La Guaira, take a 15- to 20-minute boat ride to the island.
To get to La Guaira, you must go along the Panamá-Colon highway and take the Sabanitas detour to the pier. This trip takes approximately 2 and a half hours. If you’re traveling by public transport, you must go to the Albrook Bus Terminal, take a bus to Sabanitas, and from there you must take another bus to La Guaira.
We recommend bringing cash to book transportation to the island, as well to pay for parking at the pier.
The approximate transportation costs vary depending on whether you go on your own, if you need parking, or if you book tours including other destinations.
Some of these approximate costs are:
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Boat from La Guaira to Isla Grande: $6 each way.
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Parking at La Guaira: $6 per day.
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Basic tour: $40 includes round-trip boat, parking and a tour of several attractions).
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Complete package from Panama City: $170 (includes land transportation, boat, boat ride, visit to Portobelo Fort and private beach).