If you’re heading to Panama, then you’re probably planning to visit the Bocas del Toro archipelago, right? Well, if not, we’re not too sure why you wouldn’t.
I’m talking about an area with something for everyone. Want to enjoy the nightlife and meet new people? Bocas has got you covered. Want to spend time relaxing at the beach, enjoying that Caribbean sunshine? Bocas has got you covered. From Chocolate tours to drinks on a floating bar. Bocas has it.
In this post, we’ll aim to give you guys a bit of an insight into our time in Bocas del Toro. Giving you suggestions/hints/tips as well as letting you know what we would have done differently if we had the chance to visit again!
We are starting off our series of blogs on Bocas del Toro, discussing where we’d suggest staying.
Where to Stay ?
Finding a place to stay is always hard when travelling, and choosing the right island/area is no different. Ferrying between islands on water taxis can be quite fun but also pretty pricey, so it’s quite important to choose the perfect place for you!
To be completely honest, when we headed to Boca’s del Toro, we made the mistake of spending our first few days in the wrong area, so we thought we’d write about our experience so you don’t make the same mistake as us!
Bocas Town
Want to go on a night out? Don’t mind the noise? Then Bocas Town might be right for you!
Bocas Town is the busiest area of the Bocas del Toro archipelago. It is home to approximately 7,500 inhabitants, and the majority of the annual 200,000 tourists spend most of their time here.
Compared to other areas of the archipelago, Bocas Town has by far the most to offer. It is plentiful with bars, shops, cafes, and restaurants and is ideal for those who want to experience the famous Bocas Town nightlife.
However, you should know that if you are looking to wake up to the sounds of birds chirping and waves washing up on the shore, then this really isn’t the place for you! Our experience in Bocas Town was being woken up by partygoers, as well as the sounds of drilling and construction in the mornings! It was far from the idyllic Caribbean escape we had envisioned!
Pros
Bocas is the central hub for transport in the area and is the easiest island to reach. Both flights from Panama City and the ferry from Almirante take you directly to Bocas Town. Once on the island, getting a water taxi pretty much anywhere shouldn’t be too much of a challenge either!
Bocas Town has by far the most options for those wanting to go out to a bar, club, or cafe, as well as the cheapest supermarkets compared to other areas.
Cons
Bocas town is known for its nightlife (we found the nightlife a little overrated, too), so it should come as no surprise that getting to sleep and relaxing can be a bit of a challenge. When staying here, don’t be surprised to be woken up by partygoers in your hostel and the sounds of construction in the morning, too!
Beaches: Well, there aren’t really any nice ones nearby (within walking distance). Be prepared to take a water taxi or bus to get to any half-decent beach.
Isla Bastimentos – Our personal favourite!
The island of Bastimentos is our personal favourite. It is a small, vibrant island, with most of its inhabitants being of Afro-Caribbean heritage.
The demographic shift can be felt through the shifts in the island’s colour scheme and in the language spoken. This influence can be seen and felt through the types of food on offer in local restaurants as well as the music played. I would even go as far as to say that I found the locals here warmer and more welcoming. All of the above make Isla Bastimentos incredibly unique and provide you a very different experience.
Bastimentos has several beaches, and the majority of the island is a national park. Our personal favourite was Wizzard Beach. Not only is it free, but it is also easily reachable on foot, taking about 20-30 minutes from the town centre. We found Wizzard Beach to be the cleanest and least crowded during our time in Boca’s del Torro.
Coffee and chocolate enthusiasts alike may also be keen to visit the “Up in the Hill” chocolate and coffee farm.
However, if you are planning to head to Bastimentos, you should go to a supermarket before arriving on the island. The food here is a little more expensive, and the options in shops are far more limited. Our suggestion would be to do a big shop before arriving on this island if you plan on cooking during your stay.
The last thing you want to do is spend $10 travelling to Boca’s Town to do some shopping!
Pros
– The island boasts a lot of natural beauty, and its most popular beaches are reachable on foot for free (if you’re the adventurous type)!
– The island is ideal for those looking to relax, unwind and enjoy that Caribbean sunshine.
Cons
– Accommodation can be slightly more expensive when compared to Boca’s Town
– Shopping can be a little more expensive, and options are a little limited on the island. If you are planning on cooking we’d suggest shopping Bocas before you arrive.
Price Breakdown
Isla Bastimentos:
Budget: Hostels and guesthouses starting from $10 to $30 USD per night.
Mid-range: Eco-lodges and small hotels ranging from $30 to $100 USD per night.
Luxury: Upscale resorts and private villas starting from $100 USD per night and can go up significantly depending on the amenities.
Bocas Town:
Budget: Hostels and budget hotels starting from $20 to $50 USD per night.
Mid-range: Hotels and guesthouses ranging from $50 to $150 USD per night.
Luxury: Boutique hotels and upscale resorts starting from $150 USD per night, and can go much higher for premium accommodations.
Verdict
When choosing between Bocas Town and Isla Bastimentos, the question you have to ask yourself is what are your priorities?
Are you looking to socialise? Do you want to go on nights out? Do you want to be somewhere where there are a range of places to eat/drink?
Or…
Do you prioritise relaxing in the Caribbean sun? Being in walking distance of stunning beaches, aiming to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life?
Depending on how you answer these questions, you’ll know what is the best choice for you.
I think when reading this article, it’s pretty clear that we preferred Isla Bastimentos to Bocas Tow,n but that doesn’t mean the same goes for you!
PS: don’t worry too much about this decision, as you can still relax on Bastimentos and head to Bocas Town for a night out or be based in Bocas Town and head to Bastimentos to relax. Isla Bastimentos is a short 10-minute water taxi from Bocas Town, but just bear in mind that this could end up being costly as a return trip is $10 per person.
Whether it be Bocas Town, Isla Bastimentos or anywhere else on the Bocas del Toro archipelago, we’re sure you’ll have a great time!
Thanks for taking the time to read through this article! If you are in Panama, check out our guide to the Perfect Stay in Boquete! And our guide to finding the perfect accommodation for you!
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