Carenero Island, located in the Bocas del Toro Archipelago, is only a 3-minute boat experience from Bocas Town on Colón Island. It's one of the most minor islands inside the archipelago. You can explore the entire island by walking or boating in approximately an hour.
For those interested in a calmer, more comfortable island to revel in, Carenero Island is a high-quality preference. Most lodges are located on or close to the seaside and impart lovely views of clear waters. The island's eating places are acknowledged for their excellent neighborhood and global seafood dishes, as well as vegetarian options.
Enjoy lunch, sip a cocktail or tropical juice, then indulge in activities like surfing, snorkeling, boating, trekking, or definitely relaxing on one of the lovely beaches!
Carenero Island Map
Name | Carenero Island (Spanish: Isla Carenero) |
Country | Panama |
Province | Bocas del Toro |
Coordinates | 9°21′N 82°14′W |
Area | 0.94 km2 (0.36 sq mi) |
Time zone | UTC−5 (EAST) |
Population | 737 |
Airport | N/A |
How to Get to Carenero Island
Local water taxis from Colón Island and Bastimentos Island provide transportation services to Isla Carenero.
The island has docks scattered throughout, making it easy to access restaurants, hotels, or beaches by asking the water taxi driver to take you to the nearest dock. Given that Isla Carenero lacks roads, walking is the most convenient way to explore the island due to its small size and short distances between destinations.
Best Things to Do on Carenero Island
Carenero Island is indeed famed as the finest and most famous surfing spot, catering to surfers of all degrees, from novices to advanced or professional surfers.
Snorkeling
The island gives notable snorkeling opportunities around Black Rock or Carenero Point, as well as at the northern quiet, regarded for its ample marine life and various coral reef systems.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
The calm waters on the west side of Carenero Island are ideal for kayaking or paddleboarding, particularly in the mornings. In the morning, the winds are minimal, taking into account fun exploration across the island.
Party
For those interested in nightlife, Carenero Island hosts a few superb digital song events, and a brief $1-2 water taxi journey can take you to Bocas Town for more nightlife options.
Delicacy
Bibi's On the Beach is notably encouraged for its clean seafood dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, pleasant cocktails, and breathtaking herbal surroundings.
Cosmic Crab is located by the ocean and provides precise cuisine, scrumptious exceptional frozen drinks, a pleasant carrier, and fantastic sunset views.
Accommodation on Carenero Island
J and H Garden Cabinas: J and H Garden Cabinas provides lovely rooms hidden in the Carenero jungle, steps away from the beach.
Aqua Lounge Bar & Hostal: This captivating seashore hostel is just a few minutes boat experience from Bocas Town, supplying both non-public and shared rooms.
RIVA B&B: Located on the southern quiet of Carenero Island, enjoy stunning views of Bocas del Toro!
Hotel El Faro del Colibri: Situated totally over the water, this motel functions as lighthouse cabins, small cabins, and a restaurant.
Carenero Island Tips
- For snorkelers, it's crucial to live close to kayaks or paddleboards to beautify visibility to passing boats.
- Using mosquito repellent is essential due to Chitras, small biting flies that coconut oil can efficaciously repel.
- Do not leave valuables unattended on the seashore, and buy coconut oil from neighborhood stores before heading to the seaside.
- The Aqua Lounge at sunset is fantastic; you shouldn't miss it!
- It's encouraged to keep away from wandering around the island overdue at night time for protection reasons.
Best Time to Visit Carenero Island
The best tour time to Carenero Island is from February to April, which is characterized by a hot climate and mild rainfall.
Carenero Island has an equatorial climate, with the hottest months being March, February, April, and January (average 27°C) and the coldest months being January, February, December, and March (average 27°C).
The island reports the maximum rainfall in May, June, July, and August, with a median precipitation of 333 millimeters.