Bocas del Toro is a province located in the northwestern part of Panama on the Caribbean coast. It's a popular destination for tourists because of its unique blend of beautiful islands, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture.
The province is made up of a mainland and an archipelago. Here are the main cities and islands in Bocas del Toro:
Mainland:
- Changuinola: This is the largest city on the mainland and serves as an important commercial center, especially for the banana industry.
- Almirante: This is a port town and is the main gateway to the islands of the Bocas del Toro archipelago.
Archipelago:
- Isla Colón: The main town here is Bocas Town, which is the capital of the Bocas del Toro province. It's the primary entry point for visitors and has a range of accommodations, restaurants, and bars.
- Isla Bastimentos: Home to the Bastimentos National Marine Park, this island offers a mix of beaches, mangroves, and coral reefs. Old Bank is a notable community on the island.
- Isla Solarte (also known as Nancy's Cay): Located near Isla Colón, it's smaller and less developed but still a popular spot for travelers.
- Isla Carenero: Located very close to Isla Colón, it's a smaller island known for its beaches and seafood restaurants.
- Isla Popa: A less frequented island, it's more remote but offers a tranquil environment and a glimpse into the local indigenous communities.
- Cayo Zapatilla: These are two uninhabited cays that are part of the Bastimentos National Marine Park. They are famous for their pristine beaches and are a popular spot for snorkeling.
- Isla Cristóbal: One of the larger islands in the archipelago, it's known for its diverse ecosystems, including mangroves and lagoons.
Other smaller islands and cays can be found throughout the archipelago. Each has its unique charm, biodiversity, and attractions. If you're focusing on real estate, the main hubs of activity would be Bocas Town on Isla Colón and to a lesser extent, areas around Changuinola and Almirante on the mainland. These are the areas where most development and real estate transactions occur.