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12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

Are you searching for the perfect hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama for your next trip?

Bocas del Toro is an archipelago brimming with natural beauty. This tropical paradise is ideal for adventure lovers, people looking to relax on beaches, and everyone in between. The islands offer a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to high-end resorts. Basically, there’s something for every type of traveler.

We have spent countless vacations in Bocas del Toro as a little getaway from Costa Rica. We have fallen in love with the completely unique vibe of these islands. Each visit brings new experiences, and we’ve had the pleasure of staying in some of the best hotels the area has to offer.

Finding the right hotel in Bocas del Toro can make your trip even more special. So, we are here to share our top picks, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort, a romantic hideaway, or a solo traveler’s retreat.

Ready to explore the best hotels in Bocas del Toro? Letโ€™s get started!

bocas del toro hotels

My Top 3 Picks: Hotels in Bocas del Toro

#1 Pick
12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ 9.9/ 10 โญ๏ธ

  • Peaceful setting on the water
  • Beautiful rooms
  • Friendly owners
#2 Pick
12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ 9.6/ 10 Stars โญ๏ธ

  • Located on Isla Colon
  • Has over-water bungalows
  • Perfect for a relaxed getaway
#3 Pick
12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ 9.7/ 10 Stars โญ๏ธ

  • Excellent on-site restaurant
  • Beautiful private bungalows
  • Direct beach access

Map of Bocas del Toro Hotels

You can open this map on Google Maps here.

Bocas del Toro is a bit different than most places because the area includes several different islands. Where you opt to stay will really depend on what type of experience you are looking for. Here is a brief breakdown of the islands to give you a better idea of what you can expect.

Isla Colon: The largest island and the only one with cars. The airport is located on this island (near Bocas Town). Bocas Town is the main town and is filled with restaurants, shops, tour companies, and hotels.

If you take a boat from or to the mainland it will leave from here.

We suggest spending a night or two here, but ultimately the other islands are better to really embrace this tropical paradise.

  • Isla Carenero: Isla Carenero has a few hotels and good beach bars. This island is mostly filled with the houses of locals. We stayed here once and it was a good location because we could easily walk to the few restaurants on the island and it was cheap to take the water taxi to Bocas Town.
  • Isla Solerte: Home to some of the best snorkeling spots. There is not a lot here besides a few eco-lodges and retreat centers.
  • Isla Bastimentos: A huge island with a few more populated areas. The most populated area is called Old Bank. For relaxed hotels with a few good restaurants around we suggest staying at Red Frog Beach or Wizards Beach.
  • Isla Cristobal: Isla Cristobal is perfect for tranquil beauty and rich marine life. It is less developed than some of the other islands, which is nice but that also means water taxis don’t run here. You will pay more for boats to the other islands. Here you can enjoy activities such as kayaking through mangroves, snorkeling, and exploring the lush tropical forests.

1. Dolphin Bay Hideaway

12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.9/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla Cristรณbal

Dolphin Bay Hideaway on Isla Cristรณbal features comfortable rooms, excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, and a peaceful setting away from the crowds. Guests can enjoy canoeing, hiking, and dolphin watching. Itโ€™s also close to some beautiful snorkeling spots.

It is possible to eat here for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are served family-style with fresh ingredients that change daily.

Why We Like It: This place is run by Brian and Amy, who will take great care of you. I think this place is a little remote, but you really don’t need to leave once you are here.

There is plenty to do on the island from relaxing, swimming, taking a nature walk, or taking the canoes out.

Check Availability and Book Dolphin Bay Hideaway

2. Barrbra BnB Over The Sea

12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.6/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla Colรณn (Bocas Town)

Located directly over the water on Isla Colรณn, Barrbra BnB offers a unique stay with great views and a comfortable atmosphere.

This BnB features a variety of private rooms. Some are basic double rooms, but they also have overwater bungalows available (which are so cool)!

Why We Like It: We love Barrbra BnB for its friendly vibe, excellent hosts, and nice rooms at a fair price.

The downside is its somewhat remote location. It is located in Bocas Town, but it is on the back side of town, so it is not that close to all the restaurants and shops.

Check Availability and Book Barrbra BnB Over The Sea

3. The Hummingbird

12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.7/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla Colon (on Bluff Beach)

Nestled on Bluff Beach, The Hummingbird is a luxurious beachfront lodge. It boasts comfortable rooms, a beautiful beachfront setting, and exceptional service.

The rooms are set up as private wooden bungalows with a nice private porch.

The lodge focuses on providing a tranquil experience with easy access to the beach and nature trails.

The on-site restaurant serves delicious local cuisine.

Why We Like It: The Hummingbird is one of my favorite places in Bocas del Toro when I want a peaceful experience with beachfront access and boutique hotel vibes. Also, Bluff Beach is a very nice spot to relax in calm waters.

I also really like their restaurant. The best is their big BBQ they host every Saturday.

The one negative could be the location. There are a few other excellent restaurants located along the beach, but you will need to take a water taxi to Isla Colon if you want more variety.

Check Availability and Book The Hummingbird

4. Sol Bungalows Bocas del Toro

12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.8/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla Solarte

Sol Bungalows is best described as the Maldives meets Panama. The accommodations here are all overwater bungalows. Each bungalow features direct water access, modern amenities, and stunning views of the surrounding nature.

The hotel is somewhat remote, but there is a restaurant on the property that serves breakfast and dinner. For lunch, you will need to take a boat a few minutes away to one of the other islands.

Why We Like It: I think there is something so cool about walking out of your bungalow and jumping straight into crystal clear calm waters. I think this place is very expensive for Bocas del Toro, but it would be a very fun place to stay for a honeymoon or other romantic getaway.

Check Availability and Book Sol Bungalows Bocas del Toro

5. La Loma Jungle Lodge and Chocolate Farm

12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.0/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla Bastimentos

La Loma Jungle Lodge offers an immersive eco-friendly experience. This hotel is located on the property of a chocolate farm, which you can visit for free as a hotel guest.

The rooms here are very rustic but nice. They offer a variety of room types from two-person bungalows to family suites that can sleep 4 guests.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, the eco-friendly focus and the educational aspect of the chocolate tours make it a fascinating place to stay.

The downside is that being in the jungle, the lodge can be a bit rustic. The rooms are very open-air. If bugs or other little critters freak you out, this is probably not the best place for you.

If you are looking for a totally unique experience within nature, this is definitely going to be a place you will love.

Check Availability and Book La Loma Jungle Lodge and Chocolate Farm

6. Nayara Bocas del Toro

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.6/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla Frangipani

Nayara Bocas del Toro is a luxurious eco-friendly resort featuring overwater bungalows (and most of them have private plunge pools).

This place is perfect if you are seeking a lavish retreat with sustainability in mind.

The resort offers amenities such as a private beach, two swimming pools, a fitness center, and gourmet dining options. Guests also have access to a spa and various water activities.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, the overwater bungalows are so cool! I also trust Nayara and know that as a resort company, they always go above and beyond in resort design and experience.

I think this would be the perfect place for a honeymoon or romantic retreat.

However, keep in mind that this resort comes with a high price tag.

Check Availability and Book Nayara Bocas del Toro

7. El Caribeo

12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.7/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla Bastimentos

El Caribeo on Isla Bastimentos is a boutique hotel offering beachfront accommodations with stunning views and a small infinity pool.

The hotel is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, the personalized service and charming atmosphere make it a great choice for a romantic getaway. I like that this is a very small hotel for a more intimate experience. The owners built this whole place by themselves and take a lot of pride in their hotel.

Check Availability and Book El Caribeo

8. CocoVivo

12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.6/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla San Cristรณbal

CocoVivo on Isla San Cristรณbal offers an off-the-grid experience with a focus on eco-tourism. This retreat includes rustic cabins, a shared kitchen, and various outdoor activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. The property is also close to a beautiful coral reef.

Why We Like It: I think this is truly one of the coolest off-the-grid experiences you can have. All of the bungalows are beautiful and I love that they all have direct water access. The food prepared here by the on-site chefs is also insanely good.

Check Availability and Book CocoVivo

9. Mosana Reef Garden B&B

12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.5/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla Colรณn near Bluff Beach.

Mosana Reef Garden B&B on Isla Colรณn has comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and direct access to the reef for snorkeling. The price point is also very reasonable. The hotel features double rooms and apartments.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, this is a great place to stay if you are looking for a budget-friendly place to stay with direct water access and a beautiful setting. I also love that they have a restaurant, since it is a somewhat remote location.

Check Availability and Book Mosana Reef Garden B&B

10. Oasis Bluff Beach

12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.4/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla Colรณn (on Bluff Beach)

Oasis Bluff Beach on Isla Colรณn offers luxurious beachfront accommodations with a tranquil atmosphere. The hotel features spacious rooms, a beautiful pool, and easy access to the beach.

Thereโ€™s also an on-site restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine.

Why We Like It: I think this is the perfect place if you would like a beachfront hotel. A lot of the places on this list have direct water access, but very few have direct beach access.

The rooms here are very nice and the staff is always very attentive and helpful.

Their restaurant (called The View) is also amazing. They have an ever-changing menu of fresh dishes.

Check Availability and Book Oasis Bluff Beach

11. Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel

12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.0/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla Colรณn (in downtown Bocas Town)

Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel on Isla Colรณn is located in the downtown of Bocas Town. It is possible to easily walk to multiple restaurants and shops. The hotel offers a variety of rooms. All are nicely done with modern finishes.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, the price point here can be a bit high depending on the time of year. However, it is a great place to stay if you want to be directly in downtown Bocas Town and also on the water.

Check Availability and Book Divers Paradise Boutique Hotel

12. Carmenโ€™s Place

12 Best Hotels in Bocas del Toro, Panama At All Price Points

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.5/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Island: Isla Solarte

Carmenโ€™s Place is a B&B with a welcoming atmosphere with comfortable accommodations. The hotel features 5 rooms, daily breakfast, and a dinner option on site.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, the cozy setting and friendly hosts really make this place. Carmen and Marcel are awesome people who will take great care of you. If you have the chance, definitely take a fishing trip with Marcel.

Keep in mind that the rooms are very basic and somewhat rustic, but I think that really adds to the charm here.

Overall, its the perfect place to get away from it all, but still be a short boat ride away from plenty of restaurants and activities.

Check Availability and Book Carmen’s Place

Tips for Finding the Best Place to Stay in Bocas del Toro

  • Book Early: Bocas del Toro is a popular destination with people traveling through Central America. It is always a good idea to book early to secure the best places at great price points.
  • Check Booking.com: Booking.com is our go-to website for booking hotels. We typically always find great prices here. Plus, most hotels offer excellent cancellation policies.
    โคท Search Bocas del Toro hotels on Booking.com here
  • Check VRBO: VRBO is our favorite site for finding private vacation rentals throughout Costa Rica. In Bocas del Toro, you can find a lot of nice houses with private pools, cozy bungalows, etc.
    โคท Search Bocas del Toro vacation rentals on VRBO here
  • Pay Attention to Amenities: I think air conditioning is somewhat essential in the hot and humid climate of Bocas. Other amenities to consider include kitchen facilities, swimming pools, and proximity to restaurants and shops.
  • Consider Location: Since Bocas del Toro is so spread out it is important to think about what you want to be close to. We have stayed in some remote spots of Bocas and it gets annoying (and expensive) when you want to go out to dinner or when you want to do other activities and need to hire a water taxi each time.

Other Things to Know Before Visiting Bocas del Toro

boat at bocas del toro
  • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is highly recommended when traveling in Central America. It can cover unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. We like HeyMondo for comprehensive coverage.
    โคท Get a travel insurance price quote
  • Border Crossing: If you are traveling to Bocas del Tororo from Costa Rica (or vice versa) there are a few things you should know before trying this. Trust me, we’ve done this border crossing many times and have learned our lessons.
    โคท Check out our guide to the Costa Rica/ Panama border
  • Getting There: Bocas del Toro is only accessible by boat. Check the border crossing guide I linked above for all the info you need in order to do this.
  • Currency: Most places in Bocas del Toro list all prices in US dollars. However, they sometimes might give you change in Panamanian Balboa. A lot of places take credit cards here, but if you need cash the only ATM (that I know of) is located in the downtown area of Bocas Town.
  • Safety and Health: Bocas is generally safe, but it’s always wise to take standard precautions. Keep your belongings secure, be mindful of your surroundings, and avoid isolated areas at night. In terms of health, make sure to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and protect yourself from mosquitoes.
  • Water: I don’t suggest drinking the tap water here. It is best to always buy bottled water, just in case.
  • Weather and Climate: The Caribbean coast has a rainy season opposite to the Pacific side, with the wettest months being December and January, and a secondary peak in July. The best time to visit is usually August to October, when the weather is drier. Expect humid conditions year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 77ยฐF to 86ยฐF (25ยฐC to 30ยฐC).

For more info, check out our complete guide to Bocas del Toro

Conclusion: Bocas del Toro Hotels

In conclusion, Bocas del Toro, Panama is a vibrant destination with a variety of accommodations to suit all travel needs. From cozy hostels to luxurious resorts, you’ll find the perfect place to stay during your visit.

If you have any questions about these hotels, donโ€™t hesitate to ask in the comment section below. We’re always here to help you plan your trip!

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๐Ÿš— Should I rent a car in Costa Rica?

Having a rental car will give you the most flexibility when traveling in Costa Rica. This will also allow you to take fun day trips on your own.

๐Ÿ„๐Ÿฝ How can I book things to do?

We find that Viator tends to have the most comprehensive selection of activities with secure booking and good cancellation policies.

๐Ÿ I’m overwhelmed with planning. Can you help?

Of course! I suggest joining our Facebook group for specific questions and head to our Start Here Page to get started planning.

โœˆ๏ธ What is the best way to book a flight?

Usually, we have the best luck finding great prices with Skyscanner. Check for flights to both San Jose Airport (SJO) and Liberia Airport (LIR).

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We highly suggest Booking.com for hotel bookings and typically use VRBO for Costa Rica vacation rentals.

๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธWhat is the main language in Costa Rica?

The main language in Costa Rica is Spanish. Most people working in tourism speak at least some English.

๐Ÿ’ฐ What is the currency in Costa Rica?

The currency used in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colรณn (CRC). However, the US dollar is widely accepted in most tourist areas

๐Ÿ“ž What is the best way to stay connected?

An eSIM from Airalo is the easiest way to get 4G data while traveling in Costa Rica.

๐ŸŒด Is Costa Rica safe?

Generally, Costa Rica is considered safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s best to use caution and be aware of your surroundings.

๐Ÿ›‚ Do you need a passport to go to Costa Rica?

Yes, Costa Rica is its own country. You will need a passport to visit.