Bocas Town
Bocas town is a bohemian, waterfront town on Isla Colón. It's the largest and funkiest town in the Bocas del Toro archipelago and is visited by travelers from all over the world. Hotels, restaurants, gourmet grocery stores and other tourist facilities crowd the small town, making it one of the most popular places in all of Panama.
Bocas town is laid out in a grid pattern along the edge of the water, with most of the action happening along just three streets. Here is where visitors will find nearly all of the hotels, tour outfits, restaurants, and services in the entire archipelago.
Trips to other parts of the island can be launched from the center of town – mainly to beaches and surf spots. Boats to Isla Carenero, Isla Bastimentos, Isla Solarte, and Isla Cristóbal usually board from here. There is no shortage of boatmen in Bocas town offering snorkeling tours or trips to surf breaks, and there are a number of companies that can arrange diving trips and PADI certification courses.
Bocas town tends to appeal to backpacker types, but will find itself agreeable to a wide range of people. Accommodations are extensive and wide-ranging, with everything from simple hostels to luxury bungalows available.
Likewise, there are a large number of restaurants that offer a variety of tasty cuisine. Those who would rather cook for themselves will also be pleased, as there are several grocery stores in town, two of which offer organic, gourmet foods that are difficult to come by throughout the rest of Panama.
Bocas town also has a number of banks, ATMs, pharmacies, launderettes, and internet cafés.
Bocas Town itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Bocas Town itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
A 'Friend-Ship' Sails to Panama
From wild nights in Panama city to beaches and brews in Bocas del Toro, awesome adventures and amazing memories are waiting for you and your friends in Panama.
A 'Best Of' Panama Family Adventure
This family adventure is a trip to paradise complete with magical forests, stunning beaches, marine wildlife, vibrant cities, and memories waiting to be made. Welcome to Panama.
Panama: A Soulmate's Journey
Reconnect with the person you love the most when you go on an amazing adventure –– from cosmopolitan cities, to cloud forests, and an island beach, see all of Panama.
We Went from Coast to Highlands
I have used Anywhere 3 times now. There is room for improvement but I would recommend.
An Unforgettable City & Island Escape
Panama is a lovely country. We thoroughly enjoyed the relaxing pace and the beautiful environment of Isla Bastimentos. This tropical getaway is just what we needed in our busy schedule.
Experiences in Bocas Town
Explore hand-picked Bocas Town tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Starfish Beach Tour
Monkey Island
Bioluminescence Tour
Tour To Zapatillas
Chocolate Tour
Where to stay in Bocas Town
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Bocas Town accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
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.
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.
Azul Paradise
Azul Paradise is an ecologically friendly resort on one of Isla Bastimento’s lovely beaches. While you’re here you can rent bungalows and cabins right on the water.
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.
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.
Tropical Suites
Tropical Suites is set in the heart of Colón Island in Bocas del Toro. The hotel is waterfront – in fact, it literally reaches out over the water in some places – and has rooms that are attractive and well furnished.
Casa Cayuco Eco-Adventure Lodge
Casa Cayuco sounds like a beautiful and unique place to stay! It seems like they’ve really embraced the natural surroundings in their design. Whether you’re looking for a cozy treehouse experience or a room with a view of the water, it looks like there’s something for everyone.
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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Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
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Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
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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.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list, it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
