As an eco-tourism favorite in Central America, Bocas del Toro is a fabulous choice for adventure travel in Panama. Situated on an archipelago located off the northwest coast of Panama, Bocas del Toro consists of seven islands, with Bocas Town as its regional capital. To discover some of the most beautiful hotels in Bocas del Toro, sticking to the popular islands of Isla Colón, Isla Bastimentos, and Isla Solarte is your best bet. 

Known as Panama’s hidden Caribbean gem, Bocas del Toro welcomes adventure seekers who will find plenty to do to keep them occupied – from snorkeling and scuba diving to sailing and hiking. Bocas is also home to a vibrant tropical rainforest, cultural sites, and some of the best beaches in Panama – all complete with a friendly, laidback vibe.

Having lived and worked in tourism in Panama for several years, I definitely have my favorite Bocas del Toro hotels. Let me share them with you!

The Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro Hotels on Isla Colón:

As this archipelago’s most developed island, Isla Colón is the most popular island in Bocas del Toro offering the most amenities to tourists. This island is home to the famous Bocas Town, centered around a short stretch of restaurants, shops, hotels, and colorful local homes. Bocas Town is also a hub for local nightlife with reggae music emanating from open-air bars such as Barco Hundido (The Sunken Boat).

On Isla Colón, you can find Playa Estrella, also known as “Starfish Beach,” a protected eco-tourism spot in Panama where you can enjoy the area’s Afro-Caribbean culture and food. Playa Estrella and neighboring Boca del Drago are great calmer beaches and good for swimming.

Another great spot is Playa Bluff which is perfect for world-class surfing and a chance to learn about the local sea turtle conservation efforts. Isla Colón is also home to Paki Point, a laid-back beach where you can sit back and enjoy a refreshing beverage.

1. Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel ***(*)

Located just steps away from Main Street in Bocas Town, you will find the beautiful Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel on the southern tip of Isla Colon. The magnificent hotel sits over the Caribbean Sea and features fantastic views of the area’s islands, mountains, and boats passing by.
In addition to beautiful hotel rooms, guests can enjoy their days in Bocas del Toro at the restaurant and bar located on the property. Guests also enjoy the convenience of the PADI 5 Star Bocas Dive Center found at the Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel.

Divers Paradise is a great choice for guests who are only staying for one or two nights and for those who want to be close to several bars and restaurants. From Bocas Town, it is easy to book different day trips to the surrounding islands and beaches or to rent bicycles, quad bikes or kayaks to explore the archipelago. Enjoy your active beach holiday!

2. Gran Hotel Bahia **(*)

As the oldest operating hotel in Bocas del Toro, Gran Hotel Bahia offers a pleasant accommodation option for those looking to explore the area.
Built in 1905 it originally housed the main office of the United Fruit Company located in Bocas del Toro. It has been renovated in the style of the former building, reflecting the spirit of the town.

Caring about its guests as much as about its employees, town and the environment, the hotel offers a very authentic Bocas experience and makes everyone feel right at home. Individualized service and hospitality are highest priority in this tiny peace of paradise. In addition to this one-of-a-kind experience, it provides all modern facilities one needs to be comfortable. Gran Hotel Bahia will “infect” you with the liveliness, friendliness and relaxed vibe of Bocas – something you have probably never experienced before.

While the rooms offer an old-fashion feel, there is a charm to Gran Hotel Bahia that is unmatched throughout the area.  The Gran Hotel Bahia is also situated in an excellent location on Isla Colon, offering quick access to a nearby dock.

3. Island Plantation ***(*)

If you are looking for a Bali-style resort to enjoy during your stay in Panama, Island Plantation is one of the best Bocas del Toro hotels for you! As a small eco-resort, Island Plantation sits on the breathtaking Bluff Beach on Colon Island. Amenities at this fantastic Bocas del Toro hotel include a fully tiled swimming pool, colorful tropical gardens, and the signature BomBom Beach Club nestled on the golden sand found in front of Island Plantation.

Enjoy their delicious dining facilities during your stay at one of the most beautiful Bocas del Toro hotels. Whether sipping on a tropical cocktail or loading up your plate at the main restaurant “The Terrace,” you are going to love what Island Plantation’s onsite bars and restaurants have to offer.

New to Island Plantation is the Yoga and Meditation platform right in the heart of the lush rainforest. A path through the organic herb and vegetable gardens leads to 165 steps that will guide you to a tall hilltop right behind the hotel.

Enjoy the peaceful energy and gorgeous ocean views while spotting monkeys, sloths and exotic birds. Listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean and the waterfall in the background while you read your favorite book or meditate. The large thatch roofed platform is ideal for yoga and your personal wellbeing routine as well as for scheduled massages. An array of activities can be enjoyed on site or in the surroundings, including hiking and snorkeling.

Please use caution when swimming at Playa Bluff! There is a possibility of large waves and under currents throughout the year.

4. The Hummingbird ***(*)

Escape to paradise and enjoy your unforgettable Panama vacation at The Hummingbird, one of the top Bocas del Toro hotels. With personalized service during your entire stay, you will have everything taken care of to fully enjoy your vacation.

As a boutique eco bed & breakfast, The Hummingbird is situated directly on the beautiful Bluff Beach. There are only six suites found on this exclusive property, each offering a unique option for guests. The rooms do not have air conditioning or television!

Those staying at The Hummingbird can expect a pool, restaurant, and bar surrounded by tropical gardens on the property. With the Panamanian jungle as a backdrop, The Hummingbird is one of the top hotels in Bocas del Toro offering awe-inspiring views of the Caribbean Sea.

During the day you will be able to enjoy the barely inhabited Playa Bluff. Stroll along the 4-mile long golden sandy beach, swim (if conditions allow), or relax in a hammock while sipping your favorite cocktail or a freshly cut coconut.

Please use caution when swimming at Playa Bluff! There is a possibility of large waves and under currents throughout the year.

Bocas del Toro Hotels on Isla Bastimentos:

As one of the largest islands in Panama, Isla Bastimentos boasts a laidback alternative to the busier island, Isla Colón. Easily accessible through a 10-minute boat ride from Isla Colón, Isla Bastimentos is home to plenty of pristine natural beaches. From the famous Red Frog Beach to the picturesque Wizard Beach found at the end of a winding jungle path, to the hidden coral-lined Polo Beach featuring calm waters, Isla Bastimentos is a great spot to escape the crowds and fully relax on your vacation in Bocas del Toro.

The northwest coast of the island is home to these beautiful beaches while the northern and southern coastlines boast mangrove islands and coral reefs. Isla Bastimentos is a fantastic spot to discover Panama’s diverse ecosystem and remarkable natural landscape.

Whether exploring the vast Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos or carefully maneuvering the sea turtle nesting grounds on the pristine beaches, your unforgettable vacation at one of the top Bocas del Toro hotels will not disappoint.

Bastimentos island is home to miles of rainforest trails, five breathtaking beaches, great snorkeling and surfing spots, a nature preserve, and a turtle habitat.

MAP

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL HOTELS IN BOCAS DEL TORO

5. Al Natural Resort ***(*)

Perfectly nestled between the Panamanian jungle and the Caribbean Sea, Al Natural Resort is a comfortable and exclusive (for its location) resort found on the private beach of Old Point. As one of the best Bocas del Toro hotels, Al Natural Resort is located on the southeast tip of Isla Bastimentos in an area famous for its natural beauty.

To maximize guest privacy at this laidback resort, Al Natural offers only seven beach bungalows, each boasting a unique design and personal flair. The authentic eco-resort is rustic and comfortable and has a very friendly, personal atmosphere. For families and children, it offers a game room with various board games and a ping-pong table.

Three daily meals, included in your package, are prepared with love from fresh, local ingredients and usually the “catch of the day” and served family-style in the two-story restaurant. Electricity is won through solar panels to limit the impact on the ecosystem.

Kayaks and snorkeling gear can be rented free of charge. The lodge also offers a great variety of tours. These include trips to the surrounding marine national park, hikes in the cloudy hills of the tropical forests and surf trips to the best spots in Bocas del Toro.

The Al Natural Resort is a fully licensed PADI teaching institution. If you are interested in diving or diving courses please contact us beforehand to make sure the school is open.

Please bear in mind that Al Natural Resort is quite remote. It is perfect for nature lovers seeking relaxation and recharging of batteries on one and entertaining activities on the other side. There is neither WIFI nor cell phone coverage at Al Natural (“the best side of Digital Detox”). However, if you need to connect, there is a hotspot down the beach, at 8 minutes walk where you can connect at no extra cost. 🙂

6. Red Frog Beach Island Resort & Spa ****

Nestled on one of the world’s best secret beaches, the Red Frog Beach Island Resort boasts upscale accommodation options for couples and families looking for the optimal adventure in Panama. Here you can stay on a scenic beach and explore the surrounding tropical landscape authentically.

The community includes a marina village with a public dock, resort office and jungle cart parking. The resort offers an activity center with games and hammocks and the Punta Lava beach bar and restaurant. It is the perfect place to enjoy a beautiful Bocas sunset over a delicious meal or refreshing cocktail.

If you need some pure relaxation time, follow the entrance trail into a hidden rainforest valley revealing the El Susurro Spa, surrounded by nothing but a waterfall and the calming sounds of the tropics.

Luxury Villas & Jungle Lodges

The resort’s Luxury Villas, which are located about 10 to 20 minutes walk (consider renting a golf cart to get around) to the nearest beach, are very elegant and spacious, featuring everything for an independent and laid-back vacation. Each modern Villa features a fully equipped kitchen, WiFi access, TV with DVD-Player, AC. Furthermore, they each have a generous outdoor space, BBQ appliances and private pool, perfect to soak in the scenery within earshot of the waves.

Try out the beautiful jungle lodges for a more authentic and rustic island feel (pic below).

As one of the top Bocas del Toro hotels, this resort offers a beautiful, lush garden, an onsite swimming pool and beach club, and a unique architectural style. Guests enjoy exploring the surrounding area through zip-lining, snorkeling, and kayaking – all of which can be arranged at the 24-hour reception desk.

7. Eclypse de Mar Acqua Lodge ***(*)

As one of the most responsible resorts in Panama, Eclypse de Mar Acqua Lodge holds their relationship with the environment and surrounding landscape at the highest standards. This beautiful Bocas del Toro resort offers seven overwater bungalows, each carefully decorated in dedication to the area’s biodiversity.

The over-the-water bungalows found at Eclypse de Mar were constructed out of local wood with all-natural materials, providing a cool atmosphere. Each bungalow features a private deck ideal for a morning swim in the Caribbean Sea or relaxing with your favorite book overlooking a colorful sunset. The glass viewing floors allow for watching sea life just below your feet from inside the bungalow. Each room also enjoys a ceiling fan and private bathrooms with hot water shower.

Alternatively, the lodge offers a spectacular Treehouse that offers inspiring views across the jungle and Caribbean bay.

Behind the overwater bungalows, you will find the Eclypse de Mar Natural Reserve. You can literally feel the sound of nature and find many different species of flowers and animals. Paths, rainforest corridors and ponds filled with aquatic plants will treat you to an unforgettable experience.

Electricity is provided by solar panels. This is the main reason why electricity is available in the bungalows from 6 pm to 8:30 am.
Wi-Fi Internet Service is available at all times in all bungalows, as well as in the restaurant.

Bocas del Toro Hotels on Isla Solarte:

To fully dive into the beautiful Panamanian landscape, head over to Isla Solarte, located just south of Isla Bastimentos. This island is the spot to be for those looking for Bocas del Toro’s best snorkeling and scuba diving spots. The sea wall found at Hospital Point offers snorkelers and divers a diverse array of sea life – including sea lobsters, trumpet fish, Morey eels, and deep-water corals.

There are very few traditional accommodations on Isla Solarte, but those looking for adventurous eco-lodges and luxurious retreats will enjoy the scattered resorts found throughout this isolated jungle island.

8. Aqui Hoy Cabanas ***(*)

For travelers looking to stay on the water, Aqui Hoy, as one of the most beautiful Bocas del Toro hotels, will not disappoint. The small resort is situated on Solarte, just 5 minutes by boat from the vibrant Bocas Town.

The relatively new four overwater bungalows offered at this quiet, rejuvenating, and unforgettable retreat feature free WiFi, a private bathroom, and a spacious balcony boasting views of the water. All four cabanas built on the water offer spectacular views of the west-facing lagoon, perfect for your adventure in Panama.

The restaurant offers upscale gastronomical meat, mouth watering vegetarian and stunning seafood dishes in the evenings and delicious Caribbean lunch options during day time. It is well known in Bocas del Toro for its excellent gourmet food!

Aqui Hoy offers the best qualities of the Panamanian lifestyle: a relaxed, worry-free attitude and nature-focused surroundings. With a personalized experience for every guest, the hotel boasts excellent customer service with comfortable and clean spaces that can be hard to find in Central America.

9. Villa F&B ***(*)

Situated in the breathtaking Panamanian mangroves, but just a 15-minute boat ride from Bocas town, Villa F&B is easily one of the most beautiful Bocas del Toro hotels. It is in every sense a paradise on earth.

The villa with its French owners Fabienne and Benoit (F&B) offers a very personalized service during your stay due to the limited number of rooms. Relax in the shared lounge on the sun terrace, treat yourself to a tropical cocktail and unwind. Further, there is a small luxurious pool on site where you can lay out and enjoy fantastic views of the luscious landscape and colorful sunsets.

The beautiful eco-boutique hotel offers the perfect private escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The rooms at this hidden paradise are spacious, clean, and beautifully designed. In its restaurant you will be delighted by the freshly prepared gourmet dishes.

The hotel also provides kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for their guests to explore the surrounding mangroves. 

Villa F&B’s service is unmatched, with organized trips, complimentary boat rides, and tasty cocktails offered throughout your stay. 

*****

 Conclusion:

On the Caribbean coast of Panama, Bocas del Toro features some of the best hotels and resorts in the region. It is also home to some of Panama’s best beaches. Whether you’re looking to relax, snorkel or surf, this little Caribbean gem has got you covered! 

On a side note: As the islands are so close to the border with Costa Rica, you can easily combine them on a multi-country tour.

Get in touch with us today to plan your family vacation, romantic getaway, or honeymoon, in Bocas del Toro and Panama.

Have you been to Bocas del Toro? Where did you stay?

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