Cayo Crawl
Many islands in the Bocas del Toro archipelago border water that is crystal-clear and teeming with marine life. Cayo Crawl is one such area. Set between Isla Bastimentos and Isla Popa, Cayo Crawl is a shallow channel of water that has fantastic snorkeling.
Cayo Crawl is a half-hour boat ride from Bocas town on Isla Colón. The sea here is warm and clear, and home to an intact coral reef. A great variety of tropical fish frequent the reef, including parrotfish, angelfish, needlefish and snapper. The snorkeling here is pleasant and easy, especially since some areas are only a meter deep.
There are several basic thatched-roof restaurants in Cayo Crawl. These photogenic restaurants are built on stilts over the water and provide snorkelers with a convenient place to grab a meal or order a drink. The seafood at the restaurants is tasty and fresh, but the service is basic. At some restaurants, it’s even possible to look into the coral gardens and watch fish swim in the water below.
The north shore beaches on Isla Bastimentos, including Red Frog Beach and Wizard Beach, are a short boat ride away.
Where to stay in Cayo Crawl
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Cayo Crawl accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Tranquilo Bay
Tranquilo Bay is a gorgeous eco-resort set on Bastimentos Island in Bocas del Toro. The resort has six cozy cabanas and great access to the outdoors. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a quiet and natural experience in Panama.
Al Natural Resort
The Al Natural Resort is located on Bastimentos Island in Bocas del Toro. This hotel consists of several comfortable thatched-roof bungalows set on the edge of the beach. It’s a great place for travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature.
Eclypse del Mar
Eclypse del Mar is located on Bastimentos Island. It’s a friendly, pleasant place that offers thatch-roof bungalows over the water.
Red Frog Beach Resort
The Red Frog Beach Resort is located on Bastimentos Island in the Bocas del Toro Archipelago. This resort combines a stunning location with beautiful and comfortable accommodations.
Tierra Verde Hotel
Hotel Tierra Verde is located on Carenero Island in Bocas del Toro. This small hotel faces the water and is a good choice for adventurous, outdoorsy types.
Gran Hotel Bahía
The Gran Hotel Bahía is set within Bocas town on Colón Island. The hotel has spacious rooms and is located within a historic building.
Hotel Bocas del Toro
Hotel Bocas de Toro sits directly on the water, on the coast of Isla Colón in the Bocas del Toro province. It has 11 cozy rooms and a homey atmosphere.
Playa Tortuga Hotel and Beach Resort
The Playa Tortuga Hotel & Beach Resort is located on Colón Island in Bocas del Toro. The hotel, which is set along a lovely golden-sand beach, has gorgeous rooms and ample facilities.
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Insider-led Panama Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
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