Eclypse del Mar

Bastimentos Island is set within the Bocas del Toro archipelago. It’s smaller than Colón Island, but has ample beaches and forests. The north shore beaches of Playa Larga and Red Frog Beach are some of the best—these are great places to soak up sun and stare out at the Caribbean. The middle portion of the island and some of the surrounding waters are part of the Bastimentos Island National Marine Park. This park includes the Cayos Zapatillas, two beautiful islands that have attractive beaches and good snorkeling options.

Eclypse del Mar is fun and lovely. The accommodations consist of brightly painted, thatch-roof bungalows set directly above the ocean. They are constructed from dark wood and have pleasant interiors. The beds are comfortable and all rooms have a ceiling fan, private bathroom, hot water shower, and in-room safe; the floors even have a small glass panel where you can watch fish swim by underneath. Each bungalow has a private balcony with stairs leading down to the water. Waking up and jumping right into the ocean is a great way to start your day.

There are also two honeymoon bungalows (which are larger and nicer than the standard bungalows) and two rooms in the main house. The rooms in the main house are smaller but still pleasant, and have a balcony overlooking the water.

A complimentary breakfast is served on your balcony each morning. Lunch and dinner can be enjoyed at the hotel’s restaurant, which also serves beer and wine. Guests can rent kayaks and snorkel gear, or explore trails on the hotel’s 6-acre (2.5-ha) reserve. The series of artificial lagoons is a nice touch.

Eclypse del Mar prides itself on sustainable practices. All electricity is generated by solar power and the hotel’s water comes from a filtered spring onshore.