18 Best Things To Do In Bocas del Toro, Panama - Updated 2024

things to do in Bocas Del Toro Panama
Louise
Louise 
Updated
| 8 min read

Comprising of a chain of islands on the Carribean coastline, Bocas del Toro is a province in Panama that is a popular tourist destination for beach lovers and nature adventurers. It boasts of breathtaking beaches and biodiverse rainforests. Here you’ll find the Isla Colon, which as a central hub with a vibrant nightlife, excellent dining options, and souvenir shops. While in this region, be sure to explore the beaches in Isla Colon and try watersports like surfing and snorkeling. Also, for extreme sports like zipline, you will have so much fun in the Boquete District. In addition, you’re Bocas del Toro adventure wouldn’t be complete without seeing the enchanting Lost Waterfalls in Los Naranjos. For a more in-depth guide, here is a list of fantastic things to do in Bocas del Toro, Panama.

1. Swim with the enchanting sea creatures (from USD 67.0)

There is nothing more relaxing than being in the seas and marveling at spectacular natural views. If you agree with this idea, this amazing tour package might pique your interest. Discover hidden snorkeling sites and swim with enchanting sea creatures as you enjoy a day in the crystal clear waters and under the warmth of the sun. This is a fantastic tour package for people with limited time in the province but would like to make the most of their stay. Entrance fees are included in the cost of this tour package.

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Panama Bocas del Toro Full-Day Speedboat Tour with Snorkeling

Duration: 7 hours

18 reviews

2. Appreciate the countryside with Panama Horseback Horse Riding Adventures

Horseback riding (7420630398) (2)
Source: Photo by user Virginia State Pa... used under CC BY 2.0

As you explore the beautiful island of San Cristobal, you might be interested in delightful horseback riding adventure. Invite your family or friends, and together share this fun activity with lots of nature and spectacular views. You will be immersed in the jungle of the island ranch in town and will get a glimpse of wildlife through the ride. Lead by a professional guide, this tour package is ideal for up to 10 people. To top it all off, transportation from Bocas del Toro to the island of San Cristobal is included in the pricing of this tour.

Panama Horseback Horse Riding Adventures

Address: Isla Cristobal, Bocas del Toro, Panama

Website: Panama Horseback Horse Riding Adventures

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)

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3. Take selfies at Plasticbottle Village


While in Bocas del Toro province, be sure to check out the marvelous Plasticbottle Village. This breathtaking structure made of used plastic materials is the province’s government’s effort to find a use for these hazardous materials instead of being thrown in the waters and causing pollution. This structure features a jail-like cell which symbolizes a real-life prison as they believe that everyone should repent for the crimes they commit against nature. Lots of tourists visit this place and find humor in it. Also, it is a delightful place to take your Instagram pics.

Plasticbottle Village

Address: Bocas del Toro Province, Panama

Website: Plasticbottle Village

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 12pm, 1pm - 5pm; Sun: 9am - 12pm

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4. Snorkel in the Starfish Beach (from USD 64.0)

Experience the refreshing waters of the enchanting paradise of StarFish Beach through this fantastic tour package. Participants will be riding a comfortable and convenient speedboat that will take them to the gorgeous island. The fun doesn’t end there; after some swimming and bonding time with your family and friends, you will also visit other locations such as the Mangrove Point, Bird Island, and Bocas del Drogo. You will be spending a day snorkeling and discovering underwater treasures and marveling at the beauty of nature and wildlife.

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Speed Boat tour to Mangrove Point -Starfish Beach -Bocas del Drago and Birds Island

Duration: 7 hours

3 reviews

5. Book a fantastic tour package with Under Sea Panama


Isla Colon is a breathtaking paradise in Panama. It boasts of crystal clear waters of the Carribean coastline as well as stunning greeneries. While on the island, you might want to experience snorkeling and discovering the enchanting world that lies under the sea. Under Sea Panama offers a fantastic package that offers guides that will help you get the hang of snorkeling. Not only that, but they also offer tour packages to different islands on the Bocas del Toro province including the Star Beach Tour and the Cayo Zapatilla Tour. They provide transport services, snorkeling equipment, and go-pro camera rentals.

Under Sea Panama

Address: Third street, Isla Colon. Bocas del Toro

Website: Under Sea Panama

Opening hours: 8am - 12pm, 3pm - 8pm (daily)

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6. Check out the virgin Bluff Beach and Forest


Another hidden gem in the province of Bocas del Toro is the Bluff Beach and Forest. It is a virgin island on the province that boasts of crystal clear waters and fine sands. Lush greeneries add charm to this paradise. It bills itself as the pearl of the archipelago. Not to mention, it boasts of rich wildlife, being the nesting area to three different species of turtles including Leatherback, Hawksbill, and Green. The place does not have lots of lodges and inhabitants, so you might want to book a ride to the beach and leave before dark. Be sure to have your camera ready when you visit this stunning beach.

Bluff Beach and Forest

Address: 4, Panama, Bocas Town, Bocas del Toro, Panama

Website: Bluff Beach and Forest

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7. Make memories with your loved ones at Istmito Beach


Complete your list of beaches to visit in Bocas del Tora by visiting the Istmito Beach. This stunning beach is a paradise that will provide you with the relaxation, peace, and quiet that you long for, contrary to the busy city life. With spectacular views and breathtaking waters, you will definitely enjoy your time at the beach. Lots of tourists also go to this place for cardio exercises and dog walks as it has excellent routes. To top it all off, there are a plethora of fantastic lodges in the area where you can stay if you want to live close to this gorgeous beach.

Istmito Beach

Address: Bocas del Toro Province, Panama

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8. Gorge on sumptuous eats at Azul Restaurant Bocas del Toro

Nuestro filete de res con salsa de hongos y croquetas de papa con bacon y romero... Ven a disfrutar con nosotros de una...

Posted by Azul Restaurant Bocas del Toro on Thursday, 19 July 2018

Bocas del Toro is not only a paradise of natural wonders but it is also a province boasting of mouthwatering dishes. One testament to that is the Azul Restaurant Bocas del Toro in Main Street. It features a charming interior design with vintage vibes and lots of natural light. In addition, it has a laid-back outdoor seating where guests can enjoy their meals as well as the fresh air. Dining in this fantastic restaurant will surely make your heart cry happy tears.

Azul Restaurant Bocas del Toro

Address: Main Street, Calle 3, upstairs, In front of la Iguana, 507 Bocas del Toro, Panama

Website: Azul Restaurant Bocas del Toro

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 6am - 10pm (closed on Mon)

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9. Party like a rockstar at Filthy Friday Bocas

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Immerse in the vibrant party scene in Bocas del Toro by checking out the laid-back vibes and the high energy at Filthy Friday Bocas. This exciting attraction is a bustling party destination surrounded by breathtaking waters. With loud upbeat music, cool DJs, and premium drinks, you will surely dance and drink to your heart’s content in Filthy Friday Bocas. To top it all off, you’re not only going to party in a single location but three different points. Buy a ticket now and experience for yourself a party the Panama way.

Filthy Friday Bocas

Address: Avenida E Norte y Calle 1 Bocas del Toro, Panama

Website: Filthy Friday Bocas

Opening hours: Wed, Thu, Sat & Sun: 1pm - 9pm; Fri: 9:30am - 5:30pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

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10. Say a few prayers of thanks at Cuevas y Santuario La Gruta

Sculpture of Mary
Source: Maxpixel

Also known as the Natural Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Grotto, Cuevas y Santuario La Gruta is a must-visit site in Bocas del Toro. The locals who discovered this place maintained it to serve as an honor to the blessed virgin Mary. Hiking through a well-preserved pathway leads to the grotto with a sculpture of the sacred mother of Jesus. Lots of tourists visit this site to offer their prayer of thanks and wishes before going home to their respective hometowns.

Cuevas y Santuario La Gruta

Address: Bocas del Toro Province, Panama

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11. Try Carribean specialties in Bocart Restaurant


Another excellent restaurant that you must try while in the majestic province of Bocas del Toro is the Bocart Restaurant in Isla Coron. It is a stunning restaurant with tropical furnishings, open space setting, and a friendly ambiance. While dining, guests can enjoy the spectacular views from their respective tables. It specializes in Caribbean cuisine. While in Bocart Restaurant, be sure to try some of their bestsellers such as Grilled Octopus, Maki Crazy Roll, Beef Steak with Stone, and others. This is the right place to bring your friends and family.

Bocart Restaurant

Address: frente al Ferry, Isla Colon, Panama, Calle 3a, Bocas del Toro, Panama

Website: Bocart Restaurant

Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 6am - 11pm (closed on Tue)

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12. Buy essentials at Novedades La Victoria


Whether you need to buy some basic essentials or some souvenir items, Novedades La Victoria is an ideal place for some shopping. It is a small and simple shopping center with a plethora of retail stores and local shops. There is also an excellent cantina with a laid-back vibe where you can chill for a while and eat delicious food. Also, for your snorkeling and surfing equipment, Novedades La Victoria got you covered as well.

Novedades La Victoria

Address: Avenida D, Bocas del Toro Province, Panama

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9:30am - 7:30pm (closed on Sun)

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13. Reconnect with nature at Finca Los Monos Botanical Garden


Reconnect with nature and immerse in the relaxing and peaceful ambiance in the Finca Los Manos Botanical Garden. Nesting on the enchanting island of Colon, this privately funded garden is a piece of heaven on earth. It is conveniently within a 10-minute drive from downtown Bocas del Toro. The place is filled with gorgeous exotic flora and rich vegetation. Not to mention, the spectacular views from this place is another reason to check it out.

Finca Los Monos Botanical Garden

Address: Bocas del Toro Province, Panama

Website: Finca Los Monos Botanical Garden

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14. Relish the extraordinary drinks at Bocas Brewery


Thinking of a fun thing to do with your friends while in the charming province of Bocas del Toro? If so, why not plan a little social event with your best buds at Bocas Brewery? This vibrant brewery with tropical interior design will provide you with excellent drinks as well as a nice cozy ambiance. Situated right in front of the beach, the sound of the waves crashing through the shore adds charm to the drinking experience. Also, live entertainment makes the night more memorable.

Bocas Brewery

Address: Bocas del Toro Province, Panama

Website: Bocas Brewery

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12pm - 11pm (closed on Sun)

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15. Immerse in nature at Green Acres Chocolate Farm


The province of Bocas del Tora is overwhelming with lots of natural wonders and natural parks. There are lots of things to do in this diverse side of Panama. One fantastic thing to do is join this Bocas Cacao Farm Tour. Through this tour, you will get to visit a chocolate farm. Starting from Bocas del Tora guests will be sailed to the Dolphin Bay where the farm is located. The farm isn’t only all about cocoa and chocolates, it also has a gorgeous botanical garden. Throughout the trip, you will get a glimpse of fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat.

Green Acres Chocolate Farm

Address: Dolphin Bay, Panama

Website: Green Acres Chocolate Farm

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 12pm, 2pm - 4pm; Sun: 10am - 12pm (closed on Wed)

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16. Dance the night away at Summer Beach Club


Another testament to the vibrant nightlife of Bocas del Toro is Summer Beach Club. It is a fantastic night club with a semi-outdoor setting and a lovely pool where you can freely dive into. A professional DJ spins the disc and plays the high-energy entertainment. The bar in this wonderful club offers premium drinks and excellent mixed beverages. Come with your friends or ride solo and make new friends in this laid-back bar in Calle 3a.

Summer Beach Club

Address: Calle 3a, Bocas del Toro, Panama

Website: Summer Beach Club

Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 10pm - 4am; Wed: 10pm - 3am (closed on Mon, Tue, Thu & Sun)

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17. Surf the challenging waves with Selina Surf Club (from USD 327.0)

Imagine swimming in crystal clear waters, basking in the warmth of the sun, and surfing the challenging waves with your friends, this fantastic Selina Surf Club Playa Red Frog is a majestic paradise to explore while in Bocas del Toro. Whether you are a pro surfer or a budding talent, the Selina Surf Club is ready to be of assistance for your surfing needs. To top it all off, it features lots of inclusions such as a yoga session, salsa classes, barbecue facilities, comfortable lodging, ping pong tables, and sumptuous meals.

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Selina Surf Club Playa Red Frog

Duration: 5 to 10 days

18. Swim with the dolphins on this exceptional tour (from USD 77.0)

things to do in bocas del toro panama | swim with the dolphins on this exceptional tour
Source: www.viator.com

Maximize your Bocas del Toro adventure by joining this excellent full-day Bocas del Tori Catamaran dolphin and snorkeling tour in Panama. Spend a day swimming with friendly dolphins and fascinating sea creatures, and swim in crystal clear waters during the fun-filled escapade. You will be island hopping on the Carribean coastline and witnessing hidden gems of Panama. Plus, a sumptuous lunch is included in this superb tour package. This is a lovely experience to share with the people you love. It can be your friends or your family or all together.

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Bocas del Toro Catamaran Snorkeling Tour in Panama

Duration: 7 hours

Enjoy a wonderful vacation at Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro is a popular summer destination for sea and nature lovers. It boasts of breathtaking beaches and gorgeous forestry. Not only that, but it also features a fascinating culture and a vibrant nightlife. If you are planning to visit Bocas del Toro in the future, use this list of the best things to do in the province as your guide in preparing an itinerary. Have a wonderful adventure ahead.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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