I recently visited Panama during my journey around the globe. I expected my stay in Panama to be brief, as I was scheduled to sail from Panama City to Colombia in just 10 days. Along the backpacker route, fellow travelers insisted that no trip to Panama is complete without a visit to Bocas del Toro. They praised the island’s beaches as unparalleled and emphasized that I shouldn’t miss out on them. Consequently, I decided to spend six to seven days in Bocas. My hostel, Aqua Lounge, was situated on a small island called Caranero Island, just across from the main island. I would soon discover that Caranero Island in Bocas del Toro offers an exceptional island experience.
Getting to Bocas del Toro Was A Journey
Bocas del Toro is located on the Costa Rica/Panama border, so I decided to take a shuttle from Puerto Viejo for $30. The first leg seemed straightforward, arriving at the border in about an hour and a half. Then, some chaos set in, when a guy took my bag, and I had to chase him to immigration across the bridge, but that’s a story for another blog. Afterward, I had to hop on another bus that appeared to be in questionable condition and might or might not make it to the next stop. Believe me, the roads were riddled with potholes the size of small craters.
Time to Jump on a Speedboat to head to Bocas del Toro
We reached the next point, and I had to take a speedboat for another hour. I hope I’m heading in the right direction at this stage, as it isn’t clear. You just follow the other tourists. According to Google Maps, I arrive at my destination, or at least I think I do. I thought I was staying on the main island, but soon realized I needed to take a water taxi to my destination, Caranero Island, just across the water. After two buses, a speedboat, and a water taxi, I’m eager to see what Caranero Island in Bocas del Toro offers.
I finally arrived to my hostel on Caranera island
My First Impression Of Caranero Island
When I was dropped off at the dock, I had to double-check with the reception to confirm that this was my hostel, Aqua Lounge. It was on the water, featuring an ocean pool, stunning views of the main island, a glimpse of an old pirate ship, and a fantastic vibe. This was what dreams are made of, and honestly, the setting felt more like a luxury resort than a hostel. I immediately extended my stay from three nights to six, knowing I wouldn’t want to leave.
Killer Sunset overlooking Bocas del Toro
In true Globe Digger style, my first task was to order a local beer at the waterfront bar on the dock. You know it has to be great when the local beer is called. The first thing the bartender said to me was, “Wait until you see the sunset from the dock!” I settled in early to secure a good spot and was not disappointed. As the sun dipped below the main island, it was spectacular. Watching the boats go by, with the shimmering water and Bocas in the background, was truly amazing. This was easily one of my top three sunsets thus far. Masaya Volcano in Nicaragua and Tamarindo Beach in Costa Rica make up the other two.
Walking Caranero Island
It was time to walk the island. I began making my way around it, and my first observation was that it felt like the pirates had just departed. This was a region where Captain Morgan had once wreaked havoc—yes, the fellow on the rum bottle!
Palm trees were in the water, coconuts were scattered all over the ground, and broken bridges crossed the creeks. Simply put, tourists were not being catered to. Another observation I made was that nearly all the people on this island were locals. There was just one hostel and two tiny lodges.
I observed poverty, children playing soccer with coconuts, families raising chickens for food, and makeshift stores created from dilapidated homes. Seeing such a beautiful island where the corporate world hadn’t displaced the locals was refreshing. In total, it took me about two hours to walk around the entire island.
The Caranero Island Beaches
I came across an incredible beach with hardly anyone around. I felt like I was on a remote island beach that few had discovered. The turquoise waters were calm, at the perfect depth, providing just the right amount of privacy. I imagined a pirate ship might appear at any moment to rob and kidnap me. I enjoyed two fantastic days at this beach.
The Island Had The Best Food I found in bocas del Toro
One evening, I decided to venture out after dark to see what I could discover on the tiny island. Surprisingly, I stumbled upon a lively restaurant and bar on the beach, like something out of a movie. How could I resist trying this place? As it turns out, I enjoyed the best cocktail on the menu—a Caranero Colada (Malibu rum, milk, maracuya, and banana)—from my trip so far. Following the bartender’s recommendation, I ordered the tacos, and they did not disappoint. These were the best tacos I have ever had, let alone on this trip. All I can say is, what a find on this little island in Bocas del Toro!
Simply put, for my liking, Caranero Island in Bocas del Toro is the ultimate island experience.
If you are planning a visit to Panama and heading to Colombia, check out my blog, Sailing to Colombia From Panama via The San Blas Islands
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