Isla Coiba - Discovering Panama

What to see, events, costs and every info for the perfect holiday
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Travelling to Isla Coiba

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Isla Coiba, a pretty good destination in Panama (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Isla Coiba and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Isla Coiba, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Panama, here's everything to know about Isla Coiba for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Isla Coiba

Isla Coiba is a remote island located in the Pacific Ocean, southwest of Panama. It is part of the Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that encompasses several islands and the surrounding waters. Isla Coiba is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife. It is home to several endemic species, including birds, reptiles, and mammals, as well as numerous marine species such as sharks, whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. Isla Coiba is a popular destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and eco-tourism, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in a protected natural environment and observe rare and fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat.

Travelling
Travelling to Isla Coiba and around: discovering Panama

What to visit in Isla Coiba

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions of Isla Coiba in Panama, along with some information about each of them: 1. Coiba National Park: Coiba National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers roughly 80% of the Coiba Island and the surrounding waters. The park has a diverse range of flora and fauna and is a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.
2. Playa Bailandra: Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Panama, Playa Bailandra is located on the west coast of Coiba Island. The beach has crystal clear waters, white sand, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
3. Granito de Oro: Known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, Granito de Oro is a beautiful snorkeling spot with diverse marine fauna, including colorful fish and even reef sharks.
4. Punta Hermosa: Located on the southwestern part of the island, Punta Hermosa is a popular beach destination that offers stunning views, clear waters, and white sand beaches.
5. Isla Canales de Afuera: This small island off the coast of Isla Coiba is a great spot for snorkeling and observing marine life, including a variety of fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.
6. Isla Rancheria: Another small island located off the coast of Coiba Island, Rancheria offers great snorkeling opportunities and has a small fishing village where visitors can experience the local culture.
7. Sendero Los Monos: This nature trail is located on Coiba Island and offers visitors the opportunity to observe a variety of flora and fauna, including howler, spider, and capuchin monkeys.
Overall, Isla Coiba is a great destination for nature and beach lovers, offering a variety of activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, and wildlife observation.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Panama, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Isla Coiba.

When to go on holiday to Isla Coiba

The best time to go on holiday to Isla Coiba (Panama) is during the dry season which runs from December to April. This period typically has more sunny days and less rainfall, which makes it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the island. However, keep in mind that this is also the high season, so prices for accommodations and tours may be higher and there may be larger crowds. The rainy season, from May to November, can still be a good time to visit, as the island is lush and green, with fewer tourists and lower prices. However, it is important to be aware of the potential for heavy rain and high humidity during this season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Isla Coiba

To get to Isla Coiba in Panama, you will need to first fly into Panama City. From there, you can take a domestic flight to either David or Santiago. Once you arrive in David or Santiago, you can take a taxi or bus to Santa Catalina, a small town on the Pacific Coast. From Santa Catalina, you can book a boat tour with one of the many operators offering trips to Isla Coiba. The boat trip to Isla Coiba takes about one hour, and you will need to pay a park entrance fee before entering the island. It is important to note that there are no accommodations on the island, so most visitors choose to embark on a day trip and return to Santa Catalina in the evening.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Isla Coiba, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Isla Coiba

Isla Coiba is a beautiful island in Panama and it offers a range of delicious local foods.
1. Arroz con Pollo - Rice with Chicken, is a traditional Panamanian dish of yellow rice with seasonings served with succulent chicken and vegetables.
2. Ceviche - A refreshing seafood dish made with fresh raw fish, shrimp, or lobster marinated with lime juice, onions, cilantro, and tomatoes.
3. Patacones – A savory appetizer consisting of twice-fried plantain slices that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
4. Empanadas - A popular pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetable, it’s a perfect grab-and-go snack.
5. Sancocho - A hearty soup consisting of chicken or beef, cassava, yucca, corn, and a variety of vegetables.
6. Tostones – Crispy and savory green plantains, served as a side dish, or a snack are a perfect pairing with spicy sauces.
7. Chicheme – A refreshing sweet drink made from sweet corn and milk, it’s a perfect drink to cool off in the heat of the island.
8. Raspados – A dessert, similar to shaved ice, topped with fruit syrup, condensed milk, and fresh fruit. Enjoy these delicious delicacies while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Isla Coiba.
You can find general info about typical foods in Panama here.

Is Isla Coiba an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Isla Coiba is considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists. This is because it is a remote island that requires a bit of effort to reach, and there are limited accommodations and amenities on the island. The cost of transportation to the island by boat or plane is also quite high. Additionally, activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and island tours can be expensive. However, the natural beauty and unique wildlife experiences that Isla Coiba offers are well worth the cost for many travelers.

Where to find accomodation in Isla Coiba

If you're visiting Isla Coiba in Panama, the best areas to find accommodation are in the nearby towns of Santa Catalina and Boca Chica. Santa Catalina is about an hour away from the island and has a variety of accommodation options such as hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals. Boca Chica is a bit closer, just 30 minutes away, and also has a good selection of accommodations. Both towns are popular among tourists because of their proximity to Isla Coiba and also offer activities like fishing, surfing, and hiking.
You can check hotel prices at Isla Coiba here:
Booking.com


Is Isla Coiba a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Isla Coiba is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like with any travel destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings, not leaving your belongings unattended, and using common sense when it comes to interacting with strangers. It's also advisable to check the latest safety and travel information before your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Panama here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Isla Coiba.

What type of travelers will enjoy Isla Coiba the most?

Isla Coiba in Panama is a great destination for a variety of travelers. It's an ideal place for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. It offers activities such as hiking, bird watching, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and kayaking, among others.
Couples who love outdoor activities in a private and natural setting will enjoy a romantic escape on Isla Coiba. Younger travelers looking for excitement and adventure can engage in the exploration of the island or try out the watersports. Families with older children can go on an educational adventure, and learn about the island's unique ecosystem and indigenous history.
However, it is worth noting that the island is uninhabited, and there aren't many facilities and activities for children that you'd normally find in resorts. Therefore, it's more recommended for families with older children who are comfortable with an adventurous and rustic experience.

How to get around Isla Coiba

The most popular way to move around Isla Coiba is by boat. There are several tour operators and water taxis that offer transportation to different beaches and diving spots on the island. If you prefer to explore the island on land, there are also some hiking trails available, but these are limited due to the protected nature of the island. It's important to note that there are no cars or vehicles allowed on the island, so walking or biking are not options.

What to see around Isla Coiba

Sure, here are some suggestions for day trips from Isla Coiba in Panama: 1. Santa Catalina: A small coastal village with a beautiful beach and great surf. It's only about 40 minutes away by boat.
2. Cebaco Island: A secluded island with white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and great snorkeling opportunities. It's about an hour away by boat.
3. Coiba National Park: If you haven't explored Coiba Island yet, you can take a day trip to the mainland section of the park and go hiking, bird watching, and see some of the same marine life that inhabits the island.
4. Isla Rancheria: This is a small island surrounded by coral reefs that offer great snorkeling and diving opportunities. It's about 1.5 hours away by boat.
5. Isla Gamez: A picturesque island with breathtaking views, tranquil beaches, and great snorkeling. It takes about 2 hours by boat to reach.
6. Palenque Island: A small island with a beautiful beach and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It's only 30 minutes away by boat.
For every travel information about Panama you can click here.

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