Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
As there is no ATM on the island you'll need to bring cash, although most of the accom-
modation options take credit cards.
WATERSPORTS ON ISLA GRANDE
A popular boat excursion leads you through a mangrove “tunnel of love” to the best local
white-sand beach and snorkelling destination, Isla Mamey . A half-day trip (about $75)
can be arranged through your hotel or directly with one of the men hanging out at the main
jetty. Isla Mamey plus a tour round the island will set you back $95. Surfers should head
for Playa Grande on the mainland towards Nombre de Dios.
The main village
At just 3km long and under a kilometre wide, with only a couple of paths and no roads, it's
easy to orient yourself on the island. Most of its four hundred residents of predominantly
Afro-Antillean descent live off fishing and tourism and reside in the main village , which
is strung out along a coastal footpath running the length of the island. The village jetty, by
Cabañas Jackson , constitutes the hub of “downtown” Isla Grande, where most accommoda-
tion options, bars and restaurants are located and the reggae vibe is at its most pronounced.
At weekends in the dry season and peak holiday times, when the island bulges with up to
a thousand fun-loving Panamanians, the place is throbbing, often with music blaring from
portable stereos (despite the island's attempts to ban them) and the one decent stretch of sand
at La Punta, on the southwestern tip, is inevitably packed. Apart from a thimble-sized public
beach, most of the sand, grass and the shade lies within the confines of the Hotel Isla Grande ;
a $4 pass allows you use the facilities that include showers, toilets, sun loungers, picnic tables
and a volleyball court.
The rest of the island
Behind the village, a steep flight of concrete steps pushes through the dense foliage across
the island to a decent snorkelling beach (of a now defunct resort). If you don't fancy the
climb, hop in a water-taxi. On the island's highest point stands the 85m lighthouse built by
the French in 1894; though in poor condition, it affords superb panoramic views from the top.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE: ISLA GRANDE
Access to the island is generally from the fishing village of La Guaira . Alternatively, boat
transport from Puerto Lindo costs $5 one way.
TO LA GUAIRA
By bus Six buses make the journey to La Guaira from Colón (approximately every 2hr,
9.30am-5pm; 1hr 40min) via Sabanitas and Portobelo. The last bus back to Colón is usually
at 1pm (4pm on Sun), though check with the bus driver that these times still hold.
Search WWH ::




Custom Search