Bocas del Toro

Panama, Central America

Bocas del Toro, an archipelago in Panama, is celebrated for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich biodiversity. Visitors enjoy crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling, diving, and surfing, while the lush rainforests are home to diverse wildlife. The laid-back island vibe, coupled with local Caribbean culture, delicious seafood, and colorful beachside shacks, makes it a perfect getaway for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. Unique attractions include Red Frog Beach, Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, and the lively town of Bocas.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Bocas Del Toro

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

11 Best Things to Do in Bocas del Toro

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Red Frog Beach

Relax on pristine shores and swim in turquoise waters.

No booking required
2

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Bastimentos Island

Discover lush jungles and vibrant wildlife on this island.

No booking required
3

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go snorkeling at Coral Cay

Swim among colorful fish and stunning coral reefs.

Booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat tour of the archipelago

Cruise through islands and spot wildlife along the way.

Booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Bocas Butterfly Garden

Learn about local butterfly species in a serene setting.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy a sunset at Starfish Beach

Unwind while watching stunning sunsets over the ocean.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local cuisine at a beachside restaurant

Savor fresh seafood and traditional Panamanian dishes.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Go surfing at Paunch Beach

Catch waves at one of the best surf spots in Panama.

No booking required
9

Est. 3.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike in the rainforest of Isla Bastimentos National Park

Explore lush trails and diverse wildlife in the park.

No booking required
10

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Indigenous Community of Ngäbe-Buglé

Experience the culture and traditions of local tribes.

No booking required
11

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Explore the Bocas Town nightlife

Enjoy bars, live music, and dance the night away.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

US Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Sancocho

Chicken soup with herbs and vegetables. (National dish)

Ropa Vieja

Shredded beef in a tomato sauce.

Tamales

Corn dough filled with meat or vegetables.

Arroz con Pollo

Rice cooked with chicken and spices.

Ceviche

Fresh fish marinated in citrus juices.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)