Explore the captivating allure of Panama, a remarkable land bridge uniting South and Central America, and uncover a wealth of enticements that make it a compelling travel destination. Beyond its renowned canal bridging the Caribbean and Pacific oceans, Panama holds myriad treasures awaiting discovery in the “Best Beautiful Islands in Panama.” Amidst this enchanting tapestry, you’ll find a collection of idyllic tropical islands gracing both the Caribbean and Pacific, inviting you to prioritize their stunning beauty for an unforgettable experience on your next Panama vacation.
10. Isla Iguana
The beautiful beach at Iguana Island, Azuero Peninsula, Panama. Image source: Marek Poplawski/Shutterstock.com
Isla Iguana, a component of the Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge, is located only a few kilometers off the coast of the Azuero Peninsula in southern Panama. The majority of tourists to Isla Iguana come for a day trip, and there is enough to see and do on the island. More than 200 kinds of fish can be seen when snorkeling around a vast and mature coral reef. Scuba divers who go offshore may encounter humpback whales, moray eels, and octopuses. The enormous frigate colony on Isla Iguana is a major attraction for birdwatchers.
Best Beautiful Islands in Panama: Isla Barro Colorado
The natural beauty of Barro Colorado Island in Panama. Image source: KeriG/Shutterstock.com
While building the Panama Canal, a nearby river was dammed, causing its waters to collect and create the island of Isla Barro Colorado. The island, which is now protected by law, is a popular tourist attraction known for its breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity. Access is usually gained by boat from neighboring Gamboa, and visitors are advised to organize a formal tour in advance. When hiking on Isla Barro, Colorado, you’ll be exposed to a kaleidoscope of vivid colors. Beautiful toucans, bright green tree frogs, flower-covered forest floors, and even three-toed sloths can all be seen in their native habitats.
8. Isla Taboga
Enjoy the beauty of Taboga Island, Panama City. Image source: Astronautas Tropicales/Shutterstock.com
The Island of Flowers, or Isla Taboga, can be reached by boat from Panama City. The island was first inhabited by Indians, then passed from the Spanish to pirates, and then came under British, French, and American control in the 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. In this day and age, Isla Taboga draws visitors for three main attractions: its beaches, its historic hikes, and its church. Playa Restinga is the most well-known beach on the island because of its sandy coastline and clear water. Hike up to the island’s peak for a glimpse of Panama City in the distance, or check out the second-oldest church in the western hemisphere, which is still open to the public.
Best Beautiful Islands in Panama: Isla Carenero
Enjoy the beauty of Carenero Island, Bocas del Toro, Panama. Image source: Damsea/Shutterstock.com
Isla Carenero is one of the islands of the Bocas del Toro archipelago, which is located in the Caribbean. The considerably bigger Isla Colón is just next to this very small island. In case you’re interested, Isla Carenero can be navigated on foot in under an hour. The island is renowned as a prime destination for surfers and paddleboarders in Panama. There are a number of places to stay, but you can also just take a day trip there by boat and soak in the easygoing vibe and slow pace of life that characterize Isla Carenero.
6. Gulf of Chiriqui Islands
Enjoy the beauty of National Park Golfo Chiriqui, Parida Island, Panama. Image source: Stika/Shutterstock.com
A group of islands in the gulf south of Chiriqu are known together as the Gulf of Chiriqui Islands. These islands are mostly deserted; however, there are a few resorts appearing on them. The coral reefs that surround these Panamanian islands provide excellent conditions for water sports like snorkeling and surfing. As a result of its lush rainforest, Boca Chica Island is a popular destination for hikers. If you want to see howler monkeys in the wild, your best bet is to visit the sister islands of Boca Brava and Isla Palenque. Island hopping in the Gulf of Chiriqui is a popular activity, and several trips provide this.
Best Beautiful Islands in Panama: Isla Bastimentos
A stunning aerial view of Isla Bastimentos in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Image source: MPPhotograph/Shutterstock.com
Isla Bastimentos is another Bocas del Toro island, and it’s a beautiful, peaceful spot far away from the hustle and bustle of the other islands. Old Bank is the only true town, and there are only a few buildings along the shore. The island of Isla Bastimentos is popular due in large part to the easy access to its stunning beaches. Wizard Beach is tucked away in a rural area, making it a great place to go surfing in peace and quiet. You should have some food and a drink at one of the beachside shacks on Red Frog Beach, the island’s most popular beach.
4. Isla Contadora
The stunning Isla Contadora Archipielago in Las Perlas, Panama. Image source: Ricardo Canino/Shutterstock.com
Situated in the Pearl Islands Archipelago in the Gulf of Panama, These islands may seem familiar since they were used in the shooting of many seasons of the television program Survivor. Playa Larga is the most popular beach on the most developed of these islands, which is called Contadora. An unexpected sight, a ferry boat that ran aground and is now lying on the sand, can be seen on what would otherwise be a gorgeous and typical Panamanian beach. While many people travel to Contadora to go whale watching, the island is also popular with fishermen in search of mahi mahi, sailfish, and marlin.
Best Beautiful Islands in Panama: Coiba
Enjoy the beauty of Coiba Island’s beach in Panama. Image source: gyikka/Shutterstock.com
Coiba Island, in the Veraguas Province to the south of Panama, is the biggest island in Central America. Coiba National Marine Park encompasses the whole island plus numerous other nearby islands and islets. The island earned its nickname, “Devil’s Island,” when it was used as a prison camp. These days, visitors flock to Coiba Island to check out the coral reef and marine life. Most guests only stay for the day, and those who do want to snorkel, scuba dive, or sightsee with a guide do so as part of a guided trip. Coiba is becoming more popular for surfers to take day trips to the island to practice their craft.
2. Isla Colon
Fort Marlborough in Bengkulu City, IndonesiaImage source: Syarif Abdurrahman/Shutterstock.com
Isla Colon is a small island that is part of the Bocas del Toro Archipelago. Bocas Town, the only town on Isla Colon, has a few seaside restaurants and souvenir shops and is readily accessible on foot. If you’d prefer to soak in the island’s natural splendor, you can do so by visiting the Finca Los Monos Botanical Garden or by strolling along the stunning Playa Estrella. The dolphin preserve is coastal, so you can see the marine mammals from the beach. If you’re in the mood to explore, get on a boat and choose a trip that best suits your interests. It’s possible to book trips to go fishing, scuba diving, or dolphin watching.
Best Beautiful Islands in Panama: San Blas Islands
Experience the beauty of Panama in San Blas, Kuna Yala. Image source: Simon Dannhauer/Shutterstock.com
The San Blas Islands are located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, north of the Isthmus of Panama. There are more than 300 islands and cayes in this archipelago, although only around 50 of them are inhabited. The Kuna People are the primary inhabitants of the San Blas Islands, and they practice self-government. It’s because of this that San Blas has its own distinct culture and language, called Tulekaya, that stands in stark contrast to the rest of Panama. Vacationing on the beautiful beaches and gazing at the vibrant traditional clothing are only two of the highlights of a trip there. The best way to view the deserted and pristine islands in the archipelago is on an island-hopping trip.
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