Bocas del Toro
Experience the Gem of the Panamanian Caribbean!
Tropical Paradise in the Panamanian Caribbean
Warm, clear tropical waters, combined with great nightlife and even better beaches, Bocas has something for everyone!
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Dive Shops
At Shore Leave we pride ourselves in working with only the best local dive operators to ensure your safety and fun!
Panama Dive School
Located on the quiet island of Caranero, Panama Dive School operates small group boats twice daily and with night dives on demand. With a calm sandy beach area for scuba lessons and training, and with extensive knowledge of dive sites within the bay and outside the islands, you are in safe hands with Panama Dive School.
Ankay Marine Conservation
Located off the grid on Isla Solarte, a short boat trip away sits Ankay Conservation. Specializing in conservation and eco-focused scuba courses and purposeful diving expeditions. If you’re looking for longer stays and eco-conscious divemaster programs, look no further than Ankay. Perfect for individuals and small groups. On-site accommodation available.
Getting Here
The following travel guides are provided for your convenience, and should be used as a guide only. Shore Leave does not have any partnerships with any entities that may be listed below, and as such we cannot guarantee the price or availability of any service that may be listed.
From Panama City
The main Airport of Panama City is Tocumen (PTY), and it is located northwest of the city. This is the main hub for most flights from outside of the country and services non-stop routes from many major cities in USA, Canada, and Europe. Taxis from the airport to downtown are about $30-45. It is suggested to ask confirm price prior to hiring a taxi and it is typically cash only.
The quickest and easiest way to Bocas is to fly. All flights to Bocas fly out of Albrook ” Marcus A. Gelabert” Airport (PAC). The primary carriers are Air Panama, and FlyTrip It is located within Panama City near the Panama Canal. Traveling to Albrook Airport from Tacumen International typically takes 40 minutes but can be longer due to traffic. This is a small airport with limited facilities, but you need only arrive 1 hour before departure. Because your are flying within Panama, you will not be required to go through customs, but standard air security measures and regulations apply.
Flights to Bocas are typically only about 1 hour gate to gate. Taxis will be waiting upon your arrival to take your to your destination, but private transport can be arranged.
From San Jose Costa Rica
The Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) serves as the primary airport of Costa Rica a and has direct service from many North American and European cities.
From San Jose, it is possible to book a direct flight with Sansa Airlines, who offer several flights weekly to Bocas del Toro. This is an international flight on a small plane, so observe recommended arrival times and expect standard international air security measures.
Alternatively, you can take the scenic route by taking the bus or shuttle to Bocas del Toro. Caribe Shuttle offers daily shuttles from San Jose to Bocas del Toro. Pickup is early morning and expect most of the day to be in transit and includes multiple shuttles and water taxi. Refer to their website for details.
