Bocas del Toro is an Archipelago of seven islands off the northwestern coast of Panama, near the border of Costa Rica. Inhabited by immigrants from Jamaica. Christopher Columbus was the first white man to dock here in 1502. Later, English pirates used Bocas as a safe haven, and in the 19th Century it became a center for trade in cocoa and bananas. English is still a prominent language.

Deserted palm tree lined beaches, luxurious rainforests, and Caribbean turquoise waters make Bocas one of Panama’s top tourist destinations. Other area attractions include: surfing, bird watching, nature tours, stunning coral reefs, and abundance of flora and fauna. Additionally, located within the Archipelago boundaries are a Guayami Indian village and and Parque Nacional Marino, a marine park with the Cayos Zapatillas, perfect for cave diving and exploring undeveloped islands.

Specific island adventures include: Swan’s Cay for bird watching, Laguna Bocatorito for the possibility of swimming with dolphins, Cayo Crawl, the popular main area of Bocas where restaurants and hotels float above the water, and Isla Bastimento for the pristine north shore beaches. Bocas was made poplular by surfers and backpackers, drawn here for the gorgeous scenery, big waves and cheap accommodations.

Where to Stay

$$$ Hotel El Limbo on the Sea- This oceanfront, centrally located hotel has bright rooms with balconies that overlook the water.

$$ Bocas Inn-Caribbean-style wood building on the waterfront. Rooms are very comfortable, but basic.

$ Mondo Taitu Hostel-Raucously fun, happening hostel, filled with young travelers eager to party, meet and mingle.

$ Aqua Lounge-Pretty hostel on built on stilts above the ocean, also with a bumping nightlife.

Where to Eat

$$$ La Ballena-Cozy Italian bistro.

$$ Lemon Grass-Delicious, innovative cuisine with an ocean view.

$ Buena Vista Grill-American food for homesick travelers: great bergers and BLTs and happy hour from 5-7.

Filed under: Bocas del Toro, Panama on June 4th, 2008