In Northern Panama, the province of Bocas del Toro is a scenic and charming destination. The province includes a portion of the mainland, but it is best known for the many islands located just off the coast. Isla Colon is the main island, and it is home to the popular tourist destination names Bocas Town.
Whether you’re exploring the rainforest or the secluded beaches off the coast, there is no shortage of impressive hotels in Bocas del Toro to choose from. Several are resorts located on private or semi-private islands, offering incredible luxury and waterfront access. Others are designed for more convenience and longer stays. Choose from this list of the best places to stay in Bocas del Toro as you plan for your next getaway in Panama.
7. Faro del Colibri[SEE MAP]
This hotel is located on Carenero Island, which is just next to the larger Isla Colon. Faro del Colibri features charming bungalows that are built right over the water, offering incredible access to the sea. The decor is traditional, featuring local woods as well as modern amenities like cable television. You’ll love the private dock and balcony that is available with every bungalow. It’s just a three-minute boat ride to the bigger island nearby, but there are plenty of opportunities for dining, swimming and snorkeling right at the hotel.
6. Bocas Condos Rentals[SEE MAP]
If you want to stay right in the heart of Bocas Town, then Bocas Condos Rentals are ideal. Just 100 meters (350 feet) from Bolivar Central Park, staying at this accommodation puts you within walking or cycling distance of most attractions. The condos are spacious and include kitchens, dining rooms and sitting rooms. Bocas Condos Rentals are popular with families, budget travelers and those planning extended stays in Bocas del Toro. Guests especially appreciate the barbecue facilities and the private terraces.
5. Urraca Private Island[SEE MAP]
For remoteness and seclusion that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, consider a stay on the Urraca Private Island. Just a few miles off the coast, Urraca Private Island is accessible by boat. Once you arrive, you can settle into your private bungalow, which is built in a rustic style and is perched right over the water. A large shared terrace is a fantastic place to dine on traditional cuisine. Work up an appetite by fishing with the locals or snorkeling right from your bungalow.
4. Hotel Palma Royale[SEE MAP]
The Hotel Palma Royale can be found in Bocas Town on Isla Colon. The location is ideal for sightseeing, and you’ll even be within a short walk of local restaurants and grocery stores. The rooms are bright and spacious, featuring local materials like wood and rattan. Don’t miss out on the complimentary breakfast each morning, and stick around for the evening happy hour each night. Staff can help you arrange any number of guided tours, including day trips to the breathtakingly beautiful Isla Bastimentos Marine National Park nearby.
3. Hotel Bocas del Toro[SEE MAP]
Stay close to the heart of Bocas del Toro, and still enjoy the stunning waterfront, at Hotel Bocas del Toro. Perched on the shoreline of the Caribbean Sea, this hotel is a simple, elegant and affordable place to stay. You can walk there from the airport in under 20 minutes, or you can take a ferry to next door Caranero Island in just 10 minutes. The nautical-themed rooms boast air conditioning, coffee machines and flat-screen televisions. Dine at the onsite restaurant for spectacular views and ocean breezes, not to mention an extensive and impressive fresh seafood menu.
2. Red Frog Beach Island Resort[SEE MAP]
The Red Frog Beach Island Resort is located on Isla Bastimentos, and it just a short walk from the beach. The luxurious accommodation choices offer large rooms, suites and villas, letting you choose the space that best fits your needs. Wherever you stay, you’ll get to enjoy a continental breakfast on the sandy coast each morning. Relax by the pool, or organize a tour from the hotel that includes ziplining or kayaking. Restaurants right by the resort’s marina offer traditional Panamanian cuisine as well as international favorites.
1. Tropical Suites Hotel[SEE MAP]
A brief walk from the ferry terminals in Bocas Town is the Tropical Suites Hotel. This is a boutique and oceanfront destination, and many of the rooms boast stunning panoramic views over the Caribbean. All rooms boast private balconies, whirlpool tubs and free wifi, while the larger suites also offer living rooms and full kitchens. Room service and an onsite bar are available, but you can also easily walk to a number of restaurants throughout Bocas Town.
