Island Hopping in Bocas del Toro: Beaches, Starfish, and Caribbean Vibes
From San Blas to Bocas: A Panamanian Adventure
Our journey through Panama continued after a memorable sailing trip in the San Blas Islands. We hopped on a small plane from Panama City and arrived on Isla Colón, the main island of Bocas del Toro. While the flight was a bit bumpy, the stunning views made it worthwhile. Isla Colón is home to Bocas Town (also known as Bocas del Toro Town), a bustling hub with colorful Caribbean architecture.
We found a centrally located Airbnb in Bocas Town for $48 a night, complete with a kitchen, hot water, two double beds, AC, and a balcony. Despite the rainy weather, we were eager to explore this vibrant archipelago.
Exploring Bocas Town and Island Cuisine
Bocas Town offers a variety of dining options. After our initial breakfast plans were thwarted by a full restaurant, we stumbled upon a waterfront eatery perfect for lunch. We enjoyed a delicious Jamaican-style chicken sandwich reminiscent of Trinidad and Tobago's bake and shark, and a Caribbean bowl filled with rice, beans, dorado fish, and pineapple. Prices were reasonable, with the sandwich at $7.90 and the bowl at $13.90.
The main street, lined with shops and restaurants, was undergoing construction, making navigation a bit challenging, especially with the rain. However, the vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals made up for the muddy streets.
A Note on Staying Safe Online
While traveling and relying on public Wi-Fi, we always use Surfshark VPN to protect our online privacy and sensitive data. A VPN can also help you find better deals on flights and accommodations by changing your virtual location. Plus, it allows access to websites that may be restricted in certain countries.
Beach Hopping and the Dragon's Mouth
We took a 40-minute, $2.50 bus ride across Isla Colón to a region called Boca del Drago (Dragon's Mouth). From there, we hiked a scenic coastal trail, surrounded by mangroves and palm trees, to Starfish Beach.
The trail offered stunning views of deserted beaches along the coastline. We were captivated by the beauty of the leaning palm trees and the tranquil atmosphere.
Starfish Beach: A Natural Wonder
Starfish Beach lived up to its name, with starfish scattered throughout the shallow waters. It's crucial to remember not to touch or remove the starfish from the water, as it can harm them. The beach also boasts several restaurants and bars, creating a lively beach club atmosphere.
We chose a restaurant with a perfect view and enjoyed a refreshing coconut for $2 and a shared $15 fish platter with plantains and coconut rice. The food was delicious, and the prices were more reasonable than in Bocas Town.
Besides relaxing on the beach and enjoying the water sports, we were lucky enough to spot a sloth and a group of vultures. The beach also has a unique feature - a stream or river flowing behind it, adding to its natural charm.
Floating Bars and Caribbean Vibes
We ended our day at a floating bar called Boya DEA, located near the main island. We enjoyed local Panamanian beer, piña coladas, and the lively atmosphere. The bar offered swings, comfortable seating, and a second floor with a great view. It was the perfect place to relax and soak in the Caribbean vibes.
What's Next?
In the next article, we'll explore more of the stunning islands in Bocas del Toro and share our experience at a unique accommodation. Stay tuned for more island adventures!
