If a tropical getaway is on your list of things to do this year (or next) then you’ll love all of the options when it comes to Panama islands to visit. Panama’s unique geography gives the country a lot of popularity when it comes to tropical destinations for a short or long visit. There are two coasts that span the entirety of the country — one side the Caribbean, and the other the Pacific Ocean. Tourism in the country is robust, particularly nature-based tourism, beachside resorts, and luxury vacations that include island tours and stays. With hundreds of Panama islands to visit, it can be a challenge to narrow down the best ones for you. Here are our picks for the best Panama islands to visit, and why we think they should be at the top of your list.
Isla Perro, San Blas (Guna Yala)
Isla Perro is one of the most visually stunning, unspoiled islands in the San Blas Archipelago. The crystal-clear waters are a huge draw, and it’s a popular destination for people who enjoy snorkeling due to a shipwreck that is covered in colorful corals and teeming with tropical fish. Though there are options for rustic overnight stays, most people who visit this island do it as part of a larger tour of the San Blas islands. Since the islands are semi-autonomous indigenous territory, you’ll need to visit with a well reputed tour company, and be mindful of local customs and the lack of technology and connectivity while there.
Isla Contadora, Pearl Islands
One of the most popular islands to visit for short trip, nearby to Panama City, is Isla Contadora in the Pearl Islands. This island, amongst other things, is well known for its whale watching during the season between July through October. Isla Contadora has a very luxurious appeal with a number of high-end accommodations to stay in, as well as tours that appeal to those looking for a higher-budget experience. Getting to Isla Contadora is simple, too. You can get there by a 90-minute ferry or 30-minute flight from Panama City, which makes it the perfect escape rather than a more complex, long-term travel destination.
Isla Coiba, Coiba National Park
One of the best Panama islands to visit, according to locals and tourists alike, is Isla Coiba in Coiba National Park. This island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s top dive sites. Due to its protective status, it is also free of overdevelopment, overcrowding, and human waste that can take away from some of the more popular island vacation experiences. Here you can go jungle trekking, snorkeling, or birdwatching to spot some of the hundreds of wild species that are native to Panama. The island is a bit complex to reach, as you’ll need to take a 1-2-hour boat ride from nearby Santa Catalina, which is a multi-hour drive from Panama City, or a boat from Lago Bay, which is shorter, but requires a flight from Panama City.
Isla Bastimentos, Bocas del Toro
On Isla Bastimentos you’ll find the perfect blend of fun, sun, and relaxation. It is one of the largest islands in the Bocas del Toro Archipelago, and a favorite for people who want to be close to the party scene but not in it. Isla Bastimentos is known for its natural splendor and wildlife, making it the perfect location for a quiet getaway for people of all ages. There are no cars on the island, although visitors can easily walk on paths from place to place or take a water taxi to island hop or get from one side to another efficiently. The warm Caribbean waters are a huge draw here, and its fairly easy to reach via plane from Panama City, and water taxi from the vibrant, popular Bocas Town.
Choosing the Best Panama Islands to Visit
Whether you are relocating to Panama and want options for a quick weekend getaway or planning a vacation and looking for the perfect tropical paradise to unwind in, there is something for everyone here. Many people who retire in Panama even choose to live on these islands, as well as digital nomads and young adventurers. Choosing the bet Panama islands to visit is a matter of preference, budget, and time available. If you’re looking for more information on how to plan your perfect Panama holiday or Panama relocation, please reach out to us today and we will help you on your journey with more information and advice.
