Plan a CruiseBocas del Toro is an archipelago composed of nine islands, 52 keys, and approximately 200 tiny islets. As cruise ships cannot dock here, passengers are tendered ashore to Isla Colón, the largest and most developed island. This is where Bocas del Toro town, the provincial capital, is located. The archipelago has a total population of around 9,000 people, with roughly half living in Bocas town. The town is a charming Caribbean village known for its pastel rooftops, fresh seafood served in waterfront restaurants built on stilts, and colorful fishing boats. It offers the area's best selection of dining and nightlife, and Playa Bluff is noted as the town's most dazzling beach.
Getting Around from the Port
Bocas del Toro town is small and easily walkable. For those needing a ride, taxis are readily available and typically cost around 60 cents for trips within town. Biking is another option, with simple bikes available for rent at about $6 per day. Some larger hostels also offer electric pedal-assist bikes for a higher price. Water taxis provide swift transportation between islands and are the main way to reach attractions outside of Bocas town.
Attractions and Activities
- Explore Bocas Town (Walkable/Bike/Taxi): Wander through the charming Caribbean village, enjoy the atmosphere, and visit Playa Bluff, described as the town's most dazzling beach. Taxis are about 60 cents, or rent a bike for $6/day.
- Dolphin Bay (Water Taxi): Just a few miles from Bocas Town, this lagoon is home to a resident population of wild dolphins. Many island day tours include a stop here, or you can take a water taxi directly.
- Bastimentos Island National Marine Park (Water Taxi): This protected area is a popular spot for eco-tours and scuba diving, offering opportunities to explore the rich marine life and natural beauty of the archipelago.
- Scuba Diving & Snorkeling (Booked Tours/Water Taxi): The Bocas del Toro area is renowned for its excellent scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities, with numerous sites accessible via local tour operators or water taxis.
Dining & Shopping
Bocas del Toro town boasts the province's best selection of dining, with many waterfront restaurants on stilts serving fresh seafood. You'll find a variety of local and international cuisine to suit different tastes and budgets. For shopping, traditional Panamanian crafts are available. While specific markets like those in Panama City are too far, local vendors and shops will offer souvenirs and handmade items, including the famous molas – intricate reverse-appliqué handwork made by the Kuna people.
Currency and Language
Panama uses both the US Dollar and the Panamanian Balboa. The Balboa is equivalent to the US Dollar (1:1 exchange rate) but exists primarily as coins, which are used interchangeably with US coins. US Dollars are widely accepted for all transactions. The official language is Spanish, but approximately 14% of Panamanians are bilingual, so English is also spoken in tourist areas.