Bocas del Toro is a group of islands located in the Caribbean Sea in Panama. The archipelago is made up of 9 main islands and over 50 smaller islands and islets, and is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life. The islands are a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world with their laid-back atmosphere, lush vegetation, and breathtaking scenery.

One of the main attractions in Bocas del Toro is its beaches, which range from secluded coves to long stretches of sand. The most popular beaches include Starfish Beach, Bluff Beach, and Red Frog Beach, which are all known for their crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and pristine shorelines.

In addition to its beaches, Bocas del Toro also boasts a vibrant coral reef system, which is home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and manatees. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities in the area, and visitors can explore the underwater world of the islands by joining one of the many guided tours or renting equipment from local operators.

The town of Bocas del Toro on the island of Isla Colón is the hub of the archipelago, and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can also explore the island's rich cultural heritage by visiting its Afro-Caribbean communities, which are known for their unique music, dance, and cuisine.

Bocas del Toro islands

The Malecón de Panamá is a scenic oceanfront promenade that runs along the Bay of Panama adjacent to Casco Viejo (the old quarter of Panama City). It’s a lively place, combining stunning views over the Pacific, palm-lined walkways, benches, cafés, and gathering spots. By day and especially by sunset, it becomes a favorite for locals and tourists to stroll, relax, socialize, and soak in the city’s coastal atmosphere. 

- Views & Vibe: The boardwalk offers sweeping ocean views and vistas back to the city skyline. The mix of urban architecture, historic buildings of Casco Viejo, and sea make it picturesque. 
- Public Life: There is a local feel — vendors, people walking dogs, couples, families, street performers. Nightlife picks up especially on Friday and Saturday nights: salsa music, casual bars, food & drinks. 
- Recreation: Walking, jogging, biking are popular activities on the Malecón. It’s a good way to escape some of the car traffic and experience Panama City from a different, more peaceful angle. 

Things to Know / Travel Tips
- Best Time of Day: Late afternoon toward sunset is ideal — you get beautiful lighting, cooler air, and more activity. Nights are enjoyable too, especially around nearby shops or bars. 
- What to Bring / Wear: Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat/sunscreen), water. If going after dark, it’s good to stay in well-lit areas.
- Nearby Attractions: Casco Viejo is adjacent, so you can combine your walk with exploring colonial plazas, historic churches, boutique shops, cafés. Also nice for food — seafood and Panamanian cuisine featured close by. 
- Safety & Cleanliness: As with many urban waterfronts, parts are very well maintained, others less so. Be aware of surroundings; some reviewers mention that certain stretches (especially older piers or waterfront features) might be neglected or closed. Check local reports.

Panama City

Malecon de Panama

The Panama Canal is a man-made waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean and is considered one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century. It was built to provide a more efficient route for ships traveling between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, bypassing the lengthy and dangerous trip around the southern tip of South America.

Construction of the Panama Canal began in 1904 and was completed in 1914. The canal is approximately 50 miles long and includes a system of locks that raise and lower ships to navigate the changes in elevation between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

The Panama Canal has had a profound impact on world trade and commerce, providing a quicker and more reliable route for ships to travel between the two oceans. Today, the canal is one of the busiest shipping routes in the world, and is a major source of revenue for Panama.

Visitors to Panama can take a tour of the canal, including a ride through one of the locks and a visit to the Miraflores Locks Visitor Center, where they can learn about the history and engineering of the canal, as well as see how it operates today.

Things to do in Panama Places

Bocas del Toro islands

Malecon de Panama

Panama Canal