Bastimentos National Marine Park

Bastimentos National Marine Park, in Bocas del Toro, protects coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds, and forested islands across more than 13,000 hectares. Visitors come for snorkeling and diving on healthy reefs, sea turtle nesting (seasonal) on Playa Larga, and calm kayaking through mangrove channels. Isla Bastimentos’ beaches, like Red Frog, offer surfing and wildlife viewing, including sloths, caimans, and tropical birds. Access is by boat from Bocas Town; conditions can vary with weather and tides. The park’s mix of underwater biodiversity and low-key Caribbean landscapes makes it a strong choice for nature-focused travelers seeking uncrowded waters.