The name Carenero comes from the term ‘careening’, which means to turn or lean a ship on its side for repairing or cleaning. The great explorer Christopher Columbus docked his ships here in the 16th century as the narrow channels were suitable for cleaning the ships.
Isla Carenero is one of the smallest islands in the Bocas archipelago and you can walk through the entire place in less than two hours. The island has no proper roads, only trails that curve through the jungles and waters. This gives you the added advantage of a peaceful retreat away from the tiresome traffic and honking of vehicles.
The island is very easily accessible from the town of Bocas as well as from neighboring Isla Colon. You can actually view Isla Colon from some parts of Carenero.
The island mainly consists of forested areas that are raw, wild, and untouched by humans; apart from the trail through the island, there is no significant infrastructure that destroys the natural environment.
Playa Carenero
Playa Carenero is the only beach on the island and it is about one hundred meters long. The sandy beach is a favorite spot for visitors to simply relax and soak in the surroundings. The beach has a raw, natural form with no signs of commercialization; this adds to the beauty and uniqueness of the beach that compels people to visit. Moreover, being completely off the radar, the beach is extremely clean.
The waves break around a hundred meters from the beach and are suitable for surfing. The waters here are crystal clear, and as such, provide a great opportunity for snorkeling or simply observing the underwater world. Just a short distance away from the beach, you can find wonderful coral to explore. The beach has no provisions for snorkeling or surfing equipment, so make sure you bring your own.
Carenero Island Trail
This is the only pathway through the island. The trail will lead you through the forests, crossing small bays and streams and also through the backyards of the locals. As this is the only trail, you don’t have to worry about losing your way. At one point, the trail forks to lead you to Carenero Point, where you can stop for the view or for surfing. You have to walk back to the fork and continue towards the village.
Carenero Point
As you walk the trail, you will arrive at a split; one goes to the Carenero Point, which is a great spot for surfing. It has one of the longest left breaks among the Bocas islands. It is a good place for beginners as well.
Another popular activity here is stand-up paddling. You can rent one from Bibi’s (more on Bibi in the food section). You can explore the coral and sea life by paddling around the turquoise waters.
Water Activities
The island offers great opportunities for water activities like snorkeling, surfing, stand-up paddling, and kayaking. However, you will not find big endorsements for these activities and you have to book them from the resorts or local restaurants.
Escuela del Mar Surf School
This school is run by an Argentine and is the best place on the island to rent water gear. You can get kayaking rentals, paddles, and surfboards. If the timing is right, you can also take surfing classes.
Shopping
You can buy handcrafted local jewelry here in the main village. It is some of the best in the entire archipelago.
The alcohol bottles here are very cheap and you can buy a few to last throughout your trip. However, make sure you inquire about restrictions on carrying them outside of the island.
Getting There
You can reach the island by a short boat ride from the town of Bocas. It costs around $1-2 USD. Isla Carenero has no pier, so you will be dropped off at the tip of the island from where a trail will lead you to the village.
Stay
From budget stays to all-inclusive resorts, you have a good number of options for your stay here. However, given the small size of the island, you might have to book well in advance if you are planning to visit during the on-season.
- Gran Kahuna Beach Hostel: One of the most popular stays, it has single rooms as well as dorms. It also offers a common kitchen and bar.
- Aqua Lounge: A favorite spot for backpackers, it has the best nightlife on the island. On Wednesday night, the party never stops and you can get alcohol bottles for $1 USD! They have a view of Bocas Town across the waters.
- Cosmic Crab: A beautiful beachfront resort with rooms directly above water as well. It offers free Wi-Fi, restaurant and bar facilities. The Bocas Butterfly Garden is a short walk from here.
- El Faro del Colibri: Beautiful bright yellow buildings that offer you a peaceful and secluded stay. The breakfast buffet here is highly recommended.
- Tierra Verde: This is a charming island-style stay that offers amazing ocean views from the rooms on the upper floors. It is cocooned amidst palm trees and flowery gardens; the beach is just a few steps away.
- Bocas Buccaneer Resort: The resort has romantic cabins and regular rooms with a wooden interior. They offer food coupons to guests to eat at Bibi’s.
Food
The island is extremely famous for its seafood. Sometimes, locals from Bocas Town come to Isla Carenero for lunch.
- Bibi’s on the Beach: Hands down, the most famous food stop on the island. The ceviche (citrus-cured seafood) is extremely delicious and are a must-try. The restaurant is located directly above the water, near the Bocas Buccaneer Resort. You can sip on their classic cocktails and enjoy the view of the waters.
- Leaf Eaters Cafe: This colorful place stands true to its name; it serves yummy vegan and vegetarian dishes. Their smoothies are a must-try.
- Receta Michila: If you are looking to try authentic Caribbean dishes, then this is the place. From seafood to fresh fruits and vegetables, everything is fresh and locally produced.
Nearby Attractions
- Isla Colon: It is just a short boat ride away from Isla Carenero. It is the main and most developed island in the Bocas archipelago and is a popular tourist destination with its numerous beaches, water activities, exotic wildlife, and luxurious stays.
- Bocas Town: It is the capital of the Bocas del Toro province and is located in Isla Colon. It has an airport, resorts, white sand beaches, and an amazing nightlife.
What’s Nearby?
