The Bocas del Toro region is part of the larger La Amistad area, which holds Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site statuses for its rich ecosystems, including the reefs of Panama’s Bastimentos National Marine Park. The waters are inhabited by a wonderful variety of tropical reef creatures including starfish, sting rays, nurse sharks, lobster, angel fish, parrot fish, damsel fish – the list is endless. Dive schools regularly visit up to 15 locations with depth ranges from 2 to 18 meters inside the bay area. Many centers offer try-dives, open water courses and education right through to dive master. Some dive sites include Crawl Cay, The Wreck, Hospital Point, Buoy Line, Playground and many more. The best time of year for diving is April-May and Sept-October but there is good visibility year round.

The Archaeological Museum of Egnazia, situated beyond the walls of ancient Gnathia within the Messapian necropolis, offers a captivating journey through thirty centuries of history. From its significant Bronze Age settlement to its role as a Messapian and Roman city and later an episcopal seat in late antiquity, the museum's exceptional collection of exhibits vividly retraces the remarkable heritage of this ancient site.

White sand and turquoise water are the key ingredients to Monastir's beaches. The most obvious choice would be to head straight to Karaia (Qaraiya) beach, which is one of the focal points of the city. However, it does get very busy in high season. For those willing to venture a little further afield for some R&R, the beaches of Sousse such as Bou Jaafar and Las Vegas Beach are particularly beautiful. The coast between Monastir and Sousse is a bit more utilitarian but could prove to be an interesting adventure as the locals will often come there to cast a fishing line on the beaches and for all horse lovers, there is riding and racing further inland at the Monastir Hippodrome and the Eki Club. Just beware that there is not a lot of shade on offer along the waterfront, so be sure to pack the SPFs.