Archipelago de las Perlas or the ‘Pearl Islands’ is an awe-inspiring group of around two hundred islands and islets, located about 48 km from the Pacific coast of Panama in the Gulf of Panama. Each island is surrounded by beautiful white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Out of the islands forming part of the group, the most notable one is Contadora Island, known for its resorts. This ‘resort island’ hosts most of the homes owned by wealthy Panamanians. The largest island here, at 234 square km, is Isla del Ray; its size is greater than all the other Pearl islands combined. It is also the second-largest island in Panama after Coiba.
History
Rich in history and natural beauty, these islands were first inhabited by local indigenous tribes, such as the Gunas, Cuevas, and Cocle, who lived there till the sixteenth century when Spanish Conquistadors came in search of hidden treasures – the pearls that the islands are most famous for. Isla Contadora became the center of pearl counting, registering, and shipping during this period. The seventeenth and eighteenth centuries saw the islands become a haven for criminals and pirates who hid here and looted the passing ships and the mainland. By the end of the eighteenth century, the islands were completely deserted and left for nature to reclaim. After a long desertion, the 1960s saw the Pearl Islands bloom again. In 1972, the first resort was established in Contadora, operational still today. The islands became world famous in 1979, when the exiled Shah of Iran took refuge there. The islands have since become a major tourist destination and a place of tranquility and luxury for the rich and famous all over the globe.
Major Islands to Visit
Isla Contadora
Once a center for pearl accounting and registration, the island today offers the best tourism infrastructure in the entire group. It is famous for its large and luxurious resorts, catering to wealthy visitors from the mainland. It has a spectacular beach, and excellent snorkeling, and it offers a great opportunity for independent exploration of the archipelago.
Isla del Ray
The largest island in the Pearl Islands is surprisingly also one of the least inhabited islands in the group. The island houses San Miguel, the oldest and the biggest traditional town of the archipelago, whose foundations were laid centuries ago. Fishing is the main activity that attracts tourists to Isla Del Ray. The popular CBS series, Survivor: Pearl Islands was shot here in 2003.
Islas Casaya and Casayeta
These islands, located 12 km to the south of Isla Contadora, are the best market for pearls in the group. The pearls here are as legendary as during the sixteenth century when the Spanish came in search of them. Apart from the pearls, the site is also famous for its white sand beach and sightseeing.
Isla del Mar
This privately owned island is the second largest island in the Pearl Islands. With a population of just around thirty, this place is largely dominated by thousands of wild pigs and deer. It has a rugged and rocky shoreline with fifty beaches open for tourists. The tourists can stay in an exclusive four-star resort, the Hacienda Del Mar, which has been a perfect getaway place for almost fifteen years now.
Apart from this, the islands have been a popular location for major TV reality programs, particularly the Survivor Series. The reality show has had many seasons set on the islands. Other popular programs, like The Real Swiss Family Robinson, The Island with Bear Grylls, and season 1 of the Dutch television series, Adam Looking for Eve, have used the Mogo Mogo Island as their location.
Activities
The islands render enough opportunities for visitors in indulge in various fun activities. Following are some of the best activities on the island for your ultimate vacation experience.
Whale and Dolphin Watching
Whale watching in Pearl Islands is one of the highlights for both tourists and biologists. Water in the islands is full of humpback whales during winter migration. Around 2500–3000 of southern humpback whales visit the islands from June to October. Along with watching the magnificent whales, one can also watch the beautiful dolphins swimming around.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
The great variety of marine life available in the waters off the Pearl Islands make it a top scuba diving destination in Panama. Divers also get a unique opportunity to explore the depths of the Pacific Ocean. Isla Contadora is the best place to start your diving trip. On the other hand, people can go snorkeling to enjoy the abundant underwater life as well. Various agencies provide opportunities to snorkel around the Island of Contadora.
Sunbathing
The Pearl Islands possess a number of beautiful beaches on which travelers can enjoy sunbathing. Contadora Island has seven main beaches, all with their own beauty. The picturesque blue and green views from the beaches enhance the overall sunbathing experience.
Apart from these, tourists can also go kayaking and take Squad Jungle Rides.
Staying and Eating
After an adventurous day at the beaches and the sea, tourists have a plethora of resting and eating options available on the islands. Some of the best accommodations include:
Gerald's Place
Gerald’s place is a B&B in a central location near the ferry landing. The rooms are comfortable and well equipped with all the important amenities, including flat-screen TVs and air conditioners.
Perla Real By the Sea
This beautiful inn is one of the best places for a romantic escape, overlooking the lovely Playa Cacique. The rooms are comfortable with flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges, and the suites render full kitchens. The inn also offers an on-site restaurant.
Point Hotel
This hotel is located on a dramatic cliff above Playa Galeón. It houses forty-eight rooms, and has a wooden boardwalk that leads to a swimming pool, spa, bar, and restaurants.
Contadora Island Inn
This inn cum B&B located in Isla Contadora is a relaxing and pleasant home with wooden decks. The rooms are lovely, with French doors, brocade bedspreads, and hot water showers. Some rooms also have balconies that provide picturesque views of the sea.
As far as the eateries and restaurants are concerned, there are many options available apart from the hotels and B&B’s discussed above. The most notable ones include:
La Fonda de Clarita
Provides good, simple food and is very popular with the locals. The lunch special of chicken and rice with lentils is the eatery’s main attraction.
Casa Tortuga
The best Italian restaurant in Contadora Island specializes in Italian, Mediterranean, and European food. Pizza and seafood are available, along with good veggie options.
Restaurante Romantico
This is a very popular seafood joint in Contadora. Along with the food, the place offers a beautiful view and a full bar.
Conclusion
The Pearl Islands are a must-visit place for every traveling freak. The beautiful island with its enormous beaches and endless seas all around provide an exuberant experience so pack your bags and plan a trip to the islands now!
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