Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
the original plans for a high-end resort. Large concrete structures have long dorms in nar-
row rooms and an open-air kitchen, all tidy and clean. There's a separate restaurant
(mains US$6 to US$17) and general store. While short on charm, it's functional.
It's 15 minutes further on foot to Red Frog Beach.
Point
HOTEL $
OFFLINE MAP
( 6561-9462, 757-9704; sloopj4@yahoo.com; Old Bank; d US$30; )
At the northern tip of
Bastimentos, these standard rooms boast excellent views of the point break (bring your
own board). Service may be indifferent, but there are creature comforts including hot-
water showers, a fridge and a coffee maker.
Palmar Tent Lodge
LUXURY CAMPGROUND $$$
OFFLINE MAP
( 6880-8640;
www.palmartentlodge.com
; dm tent US$15, d/tr tent from US$50/60)
On the
edge of the jungle and famous Red Frog Beach, Palmar introduces glamping to Bocas,
with accomodations in solar-powered circular tents, some with private outdoor showers.
The thatched lounge offers open-air meals and socializing. A laid-back attitude is re-
quired as there's no locked area for your stuff and scorpions do live here. Most guests
love it anyway.
Transfers from Isla Colon are US$10 round trip, plus the $3 beach entry fee.
Los Secretos
HOTEL $$$
OFFLINE MAP
( 6631-2337;
http://lossecretosbocas.com
; d incl breakfast US$75; )
A newer option,
this pink Caribbean-style home sits high on a forested hill. It's a hike up many stairs
from the dock, but you'll find five rooms with balconies and modern hotel comforts
(though air-con is extra), including a swimming pool. Popular with passersby, a pizzeria
(closed Monday) sits down in the shade by the mangroves. The owners hail from Florida.
Water taxis cost US$15 one way.
Casa Cayuko
RESORT $$$
$$$
OFFLINE MAP
(
www.casacayuko.com
;
s/d incl 3 meals from US$235/295; closed Nov)
Owned by a
teacher and a former Outward Bound instructor, this hushed retreat is a launch pad for
tropical adventure. Kayak and snorkel gear are included to explore the nearby reefs,
