Taboga Island

San Pedro is a picturesque village nestled into the side of a mountain. Walk around the narrow streets to see houses with murals painted on their walls and gardens with flowers in every color. 

Don’t miss the church of San Pedro, the second-oldest church in the Americas, built in 1685. Learn about the cultural legacy of the island, whose extraordinary beauty has inspired the work of great artists who have made their home here.

Visit the three beaches on the island: La Restinga, Playa Honda, and Playa Piedra Llana. In addition to going for a swim, you can go stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, or sailing to fish or see dolphins—or whales, depending on the season. 

On land, discover every hidden spot on the island while hiking. Climb up to the viewpoints Cerro del Vigia and Cerro de la Cruz, or walk along Las Tres Cruces trail to enjoy an excellent view of the Panama City skyline.

For those who like bird-watching, Taboga has one of the largest colonies of brown pelicans in the world, in addition to being home to herons, fork-tailed flycatchers, and seagulls.

If you come in August, you’re in luck, because it’s the height of whale season. You’ll have a lot of chances to see whales on your ferry ride or you can take a private tour of the area around the island. The Island of Flowers is waiting for you.

Take a ferry ride lasting 30 minutes from Panama City. There are four ferries per day on weekdays and an additional ferry on weekends and holidays departing from the Flamenco Island port, on the Amador Causeway. The ferry costs about $24, and you can add excursions, tours, and special events.