The Top Beaches in Bocas del Toro reviewed
Bocas del Toro, located on the western Caribbean Coast, is a province of Panama centered around the water. Over the years, the Hispanic influence in this region has diminished and the native Ngöbe and Buglé people still make up the most of its population. The other section of inhabitants descends of 19thcentury immigrants from Jamaica and these two distinct cultures (plus the Hispanics from other parts of the Panama) give to Bocas del Toro a lively cultural diversity.
Known for the natural landscapes and exuberant nature, Bocas del Toro is also notorious for the top quality beaches it as to offer.
Surf in Red Frog Beach
Considered one of Bocas del Toro’s treasures, the Red Frog Beach is set in the North end of Isla Bastimentos. The curious name derives from the tiny red frogs you can spot right near the beach – don’t worry, they’re harmless and not bigger than a thumbnail. Beside the frogs, it’s also very common to appreciate sloths, alligators and monkeys which provide this beach unique surroundings.
If you are a fan of surfing, this may be the right place for you since there is an almost perfect surf break nearby. Keep in mind that the water taxis only can dock here if the water is (very) calm, so in most cases you’ll probably have to take a boat to the other side of the island and hike a few miles across. But it is worth the walking and be sure you will sight some impossibly postcard views.
Snorkeling at Boca del Drago Beach
If instead of waves, you prefer snorkeling and starfish sightings, you should come to Boca Del Drago Beach. About an hour and 15 minutes away from the main town (Bocas Town) or a 20-mile drive, this beach offers you one of the clearest waters in the region and a nearby coral reef. Located on a small fishing community, Boca delDrago offers calm waters perfect for swimming and a narrow beach fringed with tree palms.
The fun fact about this beach is that it was here that Christopher Columbus first stopped in Panama as he sailed south from Costa Rica.
Peace at Playa Bluff
Considered by many the best hidden beach in Bocas del Toro, the Playa Bluff doesn’t have an easy access. Located about 25 minutes away from Boca’s Town, it’s absolutely breathtaking and often deserted during week. If it’s true that Playa Bluff’s waves often make for a rough swim, the beach is still very popular among surfers.
This is also an important nesting site for endangered sea turtles and depending on the time of the year, it may be possible to arrange a night visit to the beach in order to watch huge, endangered sea turtles laying their eggs or, instead, the tiny hatchlings emerging and scurrying down to the sea.
Overall, this province of 9 major islands, plus a couple of hundred islets and cays, is an exquisite land. Home for many luxurious beaches of white sands and turquoise blue waters, you can choose between a day of surfing, snorkeling or just relaxing sunbathing.