Isla Bastimentos was named by Christopher Columbus himself when he docked his ship here, way back in the 16th century. The island is one of the largest in Panama and is becoming a favorite spot for visitors, especially those who come to Bocas del Toro and want a change of setting. From the crowded streets and bars of Bocas, Bastimentos is the best retreat to relax and unwind.
The beaches along the northern coast are barely visited and are off the regular tourist’s radar. Due to this, anyone who hears about the island gets excited to visit there. It is becoming a popular destination for backpackers and those who want to spend quality time with themselves and nature.
Old Bank is an Afro-Caribbean village and the most inhabited part of the island, lying on the western side. Usually, visitors stay here if they want to spend time exploring Bastimentos at a slow pace. Old Town is just a short boat ride from Bocas del Toro. Quebrada de Sal is an indigenous village with around four hundred inhabitants belonging to the Ngobe-Bugle tribe. The community gladly welcomes visitors and will show you around their village and also let you taste some of their native dishes.
Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos
The park was formed in 1988 and is the first marine park in Panama. The park is huge and extends from the southern part of the island and into the Caribbean, including to the hundred islands of the Bocas archipelago. It covers Playa Larga to Zapatilla Cays, in over 32,000 acres of land and water. The park protects a wide range of natural ecosystems, including stretches of mangroves, rainforests, and marine life, including coral reefs. The strawberry poison-dart, a species of frog that is native to Central America, is found here and is becoming an endangered species. There are around thirty species of amphibians and reptiles, including caimans, sloths, crocodiles, and various species of monkeys.
You can also camp in the park, but you have to obtain a permit, which costs around $10 USD. It is strongly advised not to swim in the waters and not venture in alone as the currents are strong here.
Red Frog Beach
From the name, you know that the beach is a famous spot for sighting the red frog. The powdery white sand beach with its perfect waters will make you want to come back for more. It is not crowded and you can enjoy the vast shoreline by yourself. There is a small eatery on the beach that serves amazing fresh-cooked seafood and cold beer and sodas. What more could you want?!
You cannot reach the beach directly as the waves are rough, so you will be dropped off a short walk from the beach. The walk to the beach is a small rainforest adventure of its own; the trail will lead you through dense tropical vegetation, where you can spot colorful birds and sloths or caimans if you are lucky. You can also ask one of the locals to spot the red frog for you.
Wizard Beach
This pretty and scenic beach with soft yellow sand is also known as Playa Primera (First Beach). It is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island and offers the added advantage of privacy. If it is a holiday or a weekend, you may find two or three other people, otherwise the only sign of humans will be the footprints on the sand. However, you need not worry about safety as there are locals who live on the island, barely 10-15 minutes away.
The waters are great for surfing and the waves break on both sides. However, swimming is not advisable. With sunscreen, beer, and a Frisbee, you are set to enjoy your day here. Be warned that the walk to the beach will be a muddy trail through the jungle, so pack accordingly. You can also walk from here to Playa Secunda (Second Beach) and to Red Frog Beach, but make sure you take a local along as Google Maps is not of much help.
Playa Larga
You can reach here if you walk past Red Frog Beach, but all visitors recommend taking the one hour walk from Salt Creek with a guide. The beach is a part of the Parque Nacional Marino and is a nesting ground for different turtle species, like the hawksbill, green sea and leatherback.
Nivida Bat Cave
If you are longing for a Hollywood-type adventure in the tropics, this bat cave will successfully meet that vibe. The cavern is home to thousands of nectar bats and lies near the marine park. Make sure you wear proper hiking wear as the path to the cave is through a jungle trail. Locals will be present near the cave to provide you with headlights and guide you inside. There is a lake inside as well.
Playa Polo
Playa Polo offers snorkeling expeditions and is one of the few places in the area that is suitable for that. It has a wonderful coral kingdom surrounding it and exotic marine life. During the hike to the beach, you can also spot native wildlife, especially unique species of frog.
Canopy Zipline Tour
Hands down, one of the best experiences in a lifetime! Cast aside your fear of heights for some time and strap yourself in for this amazing adventure. This memorable tour will last for two hours, during which you will be flying along with the tropical birds and pass through treetops with curious monkeys looking at you! From above, you can find breathtaking views of the thick rainforest canopy and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. There are seven zip lines that are tested for safety so you need not worry. The tour will also involve you crossing a hanging bridge! Make sure to book appointments beforehand at the Red Beach. Do not miss this!
Getting There
You have to reach Isla Bastimentos from Bocas del Toro through a short 10-minute boat ride, which will drop you off at Old Bank. Alternatively, you can also reach here by boat from Isla Colon.
Stay
In Old Town, you can find guesthouses and homestays; some of the beaches have cabins and camping grounds as well. You can find secluded, all-inclusive resorts on the southeastern side of the island. Some places that you must check out are:
Resorts: Tranquilo Bay, Casa Cayuco, Al Natural Resort
Guesthouses: Tio Tom’s Guesthouse, Los Secretos Guesthouse
Cabins: Beverly’s Hill, Red Frog Bungalows
Food
You will find several dining options around the island. They are all charming little cafés and eateries that serve extremely delicious and cheap food. You can even find some places where you can enjoy your food with views of the Caribbean.
- Sea Monkey: It is situated on a pier in Old Town and offers a fusion menu. The cocktails here are legendary.
- Coco Hill: Extremely unique place as it offers a purely vegetarian and vegan menu. Here, too, the cocktails are famous.
- Firefly Restaurant: Perfect for a date and watching the sunset; you must have reservations. It has a fusion menu strongly influenced by Thai and Caribbean cuisine.
What’s Nearby?
