A Weekend Trip to Bocas Del Toro, Panama from Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica
If you're in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, and looking for a quick yet exciting getaway, Bocas Del Toro in Panama is a perfect choice!
Just a short distance away, Bocas Del Toro offers stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and unique Caribbean culture. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your weekend trip from Puerto Viejo to Bocas Del Toro, Panama!
Day 1: Arrival and Initial Exploration
Morning - Travel to Bocas Del Toro
Departure: Start your journey early in the morning from Puerto Viejo. You can take a shuttle bus to the border town of Sixaola.
Take the shuttle bus to the borer town of Sixoala
(Caribe Shuttle) <- click here to book
For a roundtrip cost of about $70usd (including the fees to cross country borders) the 2 hour drive in a comfortable, air conditioned shuttle with wifi was well worth it!
Border Crossing: Cross the Sixaola-Guabito border. Make sure you have your passport and required documents ready. After crossing, you will continue on the shuttle to the port of Almirante.
Ferry to Bocas Town: From Almirante, take a water taxi to Bocas Town on Isla Colón. The ride is about 30 minutes and offers beautiful views of the surrounding islands, wild dolphins and crystal clear waters.
Afternoon: Check-In and Beach Time
Check-In: Once you arrive in Bocas Town, check into your accommodation. Options range from budget hostels like Selina Bocas del Toro to more luxurious stays like Tropical Suites Hotel and amazing waterfront airbnb’s like Benson’s Place.
Lunch: Enjoy a hearty lunch at JJ’s, known for it’s seaside docks and grill with wholesome fresh ingredients to make the original Bocas breakfast burrito, taco,s nacho bowls, appetizers, sodas, wine, and the coldest beer in Bocas.
Evening - Sunset and Dinner
Sunset: Watch the sunset at Bluff Beach, a secluded spot with strong waves and a serene atmosphere. It’s a bit further from town, so consider renting a bike or taking a taxi.
Dinner: Dine at Bibi's on the Beach on Isla Carenero, a short water taxi ride from Bocas Town. Enjoy fresh caribbean food with vegan friendly options and cocktails while your feet are in the sand.
Day 2: Adventure and Nightlife
Morning - Island Hopping and Snorkeling
Island Hopping Tour: Book an island-hopping tour that includes stops at Dolphin Bay, Coral Cay, and Zapatilla Islands. These tours typically start early and last until mid-afternoon. You'll get to see dolphins, snorkel among coral reefs, and relax on pristine beaches.
Breakfast: Before your tour, grab breakfast at Cafe del Mar, offering a variety of delicious vegan options and great coffee.
Afternoon - Exploring and Lunch
Exploring: After the tour, spend some time exploring Bocas Town. Visit local shops, art galleries, and street vendors to get a feel for the local culture.
Lunch: Have lunch at Amaranto, which boasts a wide range of healthy meals that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.
Evening - Dinner and Nightlife
Dinner: For dinner, head to Restaurant Tom’s and have a unique Caribbean dining experience that combines local flavors with international culinary influences.
Nightlife: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bocas Town. Start at La Iguana Surf Bar for some live music and dancing. Then, head to Aqua Lounge on Isla Carenero for a unique party experience with water trampolines and a lively crowd.
Day 3: Relaxation and Return
Morning - Yoga and Breakfast
Yoga Class: Start your day with a morning yoga class at Bocas Yoga to stretch and relax your body.
Breakfast: Enjoy a healthy breakfast at Raw Fusion, known for its fresh and nutritious options.
Afternoon - Beach Time and Lunch
Red Frog Beach: Spend your last afternoon at Red Frog Beach on Isla Bastimentos. Known for its lush surroundings and clear waters, it's a perfect spot to unwind before heading back.
Lunch: Have lunch at Palmar Beach Lodge, which offers a great selection of food and drinks right on the beach.
Evening - Travel Back to Puerto Viejo
Return Journey: Head back to Bocas Town, take a water taxi to Almirante, and then catch a bus or shuttle to the border. If booking with Caribe Shuttle, this will all be included and you will be guided to where you need to go. After crossing back into Costa Rica, you will take the same shuttle back to Puerto Viejo.
Tips for a Smooth Trip
Documents: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including your passport and any emergency cash.
Currency: The local currency in Panama is the Balboa, but US dollars are mostly dealt with in Bocas. Make sure to stop by the atm in town next to the Old Harbor grocery store before you leaveunless you already have USD in hand.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations and cafes, but if you need services at all times, be sure to check the Airalo app for an esim or a local kiosk in Puerto Viejo before leaving.
Health Precautions: Bring insect repellent and stay hydrated, as the tropical climate can be quite humid.
Enjoy your weekend trip to Bocas Del Toro, where adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences await!
Watch my Bocas del Toro, Panama vlog below!
