8 Days in Bocas del Toro

Swim with Starfish at Playa Estrella

At the main dock in Bocas Town, take a water taxi to visit Playa Estrella. It’s soft white sand and crystal-clear water make it ideal for snorkeling and swimming with starfish. Protect them, avoid touching them or pulling them out of the water.  

Biking Around Bocas Town

Experience the real Bocas’ vibe like a local. Rent a bike, and discover island life along the pristine coastlines of Isla Colon. Stop at any of the many waterfront restaurants and order patties, coconut rice and tasty seafood. Enjoy the island's fun nightlife that blends elements of calypso, reggae, and popular music, creating an electrifying tropical atmosphere. 

Snorkeling at Coral Cay 

Immerse into a snorkeling adventure in Coral Cay , consider one of the best areas for snorkeling in Bocas del Toro, where bright coral reefs and vibrant marine life await. Afterwards, enjoy a mouthwatering Caribbean lunch at one of the local restaurants. Consider ordering any seafood dish and, if feeling adventurous, trying the local hot sauce found almost on every table of the archipelago

Bastimentos Marine National Park covers a large area of important coral reef, remember to  book this adventure with a local tour operator and respect the wildlife you will encounter.

Beach Time at Zapatilla Cay

Escape the crowds swimming into the warm Caribbean Sea. Explore the impressive Zapatilla Cay, also within  the Bastimentos Marine National Park, with areas for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs full of tropical fish, sea turtles and starfish. Add more adrenaline to the visit and explore the trails with a variety of wildlife! Look for sloths, exotic birds, and frogs. End the day with a sample of regional fruits as the sun goes down on the beach. 

Ngäbe Community Experience at San Cristobal Island

San Cristobal is a Ngäbe Community located 20 minutes by boat from Isla Colon. The Ngäbe people that inhabit the island are subsistence farmers and in recent years, became part of a community tourism network to promote their culture.

Participate, hands-on in ancestral chocolate-making techniques among local Ngäbe women and be part of the traditional dyeing of pineapple plants for "Chacara" bags. Do not miss the chance to prepare your own farm to table lunch together with the women of the community and complete this authentic native experience.

Nivida Bat Cave

Nivida means Bat in the native Ngäbe language. That said, step out of your comfort zone and take a 20 minute boat trip to Bahia Honda and experience this natural thrill. The Bat Cave is an off the beaten adventure to see a different side of this tropical paradise. Hike through surprises like frogs and hummingbirds, then explore the cave's dark depths with bats and unique wildlife. 

It is best to visit during the dry season, December to March, and you must go with a local certified guide from the community.

Hike to El Rayo Waterfall

Dare to explore the beauty of the ancestral lands of  the Naso Tjër Di people in a day full of adventure. Venture into the jungle with the Naso people, climb slippery ridges, encounter wildlife and hike to “El Rayo” waterfall to be amazed by the white lines of the waterfall against the infinite green path in the Bonyic community. 

The Naso people live on the mainland. Book in advance to immerse into the Naso Kingdom, learn their epic stories and follow the sustainable tourism practices that preserve their culture like artisanal fishing, cooking traditional meals.

Snorkeling at Hospital Point

Become one with the ocean, dare  to explore the colorful seabed of Hospital Point. Corals gardens covered with sea anemones and various species of fish playing hide and seek among the sponges. Time flies underwater, especially in this diving spot that usually has no current. Suitable for beginners, this is a must visit site for divers and marine life lovers.

Scuba Diving at Hospital Point

For diving adventure seekers, Bocas del Toro offers different spots to explore the marine underworld. Descending into the depths of Hospital Point reveals a fascinating coral wall that rises majestically from the ocean floor with its vibrant hues and intricate formations allowing encounters with reef sharks, gliding effortlessly through the water.

Local dive centers prioritize coral reef protection and offer sustainable diving experiences. Join one of these centers to support regenerative initiative during your adventure.

Visit to Protected Wetlands

Explore the natural sanctuary of San San Pond Sak in this full-day adventure. Spot manatees, turtles and watch exotic birds while kayaking around the protected wetlands. Discover another area of Bocas del Toro and be amazed by its biodiversity.  Prepare for an unforgettable day immersed in this stunning landscape.

This place is located on the mainland, book in advance your adventure with the local organization that is in charge of this Protected Area. 

Surf at Old Mans

Feel the adrenaline rush as you ride the waves of Old Mans. Take a look at  the palm trees lining the shore while you wait for the next set waves to practice your moves. Surfing at Old Mans is a tropical experience of intense emotions. The best time to surf is from December to April and July when the waves are high and very frequent. 

Do not worry about hauling your surfboard around. Surf shops or hotels in the island rent them out.

Surf’s up at Point Break!

Advanced surfers, ready for the ultimate thrill? Point Break is a famous beach known for its consistent swell and five peaks, perfect to take tubes and conquer the sea,  like never before. You’ll be riding epic waves up to three meters high and making core memories in the Caribbean. Just be cautious, the bottom is coral and rocks.