Some hotels have their own kayaks including Lula’s and Cocomo but if you want to see the islands and surrounding reefs up-close in a boat, you can rent one at BiBi’s on the beach in Carenero. Ask any boat driver to take you there from Isla Colon. Kayak rentals are based on hourly rates. BiBi’s also rents Stand Up Paddle Boards and offers lessons hourly.

The bus station in Panama City is located at Albrook Mall – tickets to Almirante, Bocas del Toro can be purchased at wickets in the terminal or by phone. Once you have reached the Almirante port, take a water taxi to Isla Colon also known as Bocas. Boats depart every 30 minutes to Bocas starting at 6:00 a.m. and finishing at 6:00 p.m. If you arrive at the port after 6 p.m., you will have to stay overnight in a nearby hotel which is not ideal. The boat ride from Almirante to Isla Colon takes about 25 to 30 minutes.

If you’re looking for a different side of Bocas, you’ll find it hidden in the indigenous villages tucked away in the forests on every island. The indigenous Ngöbe-Buglé and Naso continue to live without modern luxuries such as running water, electricity and medicine. They know how to get around the forests of the islands and speak their own language, make their own clothing and crafts, and cure illnesses with local plants prepared by medicine men known as curanderos. To learn more about living in the wild in these unspoiled communities, book a tour with an operator or if you’re staying in a remote hotel, ask the owners, there may be a village nearby.

Charco Azul (in San Andres y Sauces) is our top choice, followed closely by Piscinas de la Fajana – a similar location just a short drive north from Charco Azul. Both are well-maintained and equipped with visitor facilities. Pool waters are clear and shallow, with surrounding caves providing shelter from the summer sun.