Coiba National Park is one of the largest marine parks in the world and 75% of its protected territory is located in the sea. This natural wonder of the Pacific, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, offers a unique ecosystem in which its islands, beaches, impressive coral reef system, unmatched variety of marine fauna and history, make this place the ideal destination to visit in Veraguas province.
Paradise Beaches at Isla Coiba
This island is the largest in the park and the second in all of Panama. It has beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters and white sands, visited by people from all over the world. Playa Damas and Playa Blanca are some of the most beautiful beaches in Panama and the region.
Marine Activities
Offshore you can enjoy sport fishing in a limited way, since it is a protected park. Likewise, it is possible to practice snorkeling and diving, two of the activities most loved by Visitors, since it allows them to discover the impressive marine life such as the whale shark, the Marlin fish, several species of dolphins, sea turtles and even whales during the months of July and October.
Old Penitentiary Center
Tourists who discover this paradise for the first time are surprised to learn that for many decades Coiba island housed a maximum security prison. Today you can visit its ruins and learn what life was like for prisoners in those times.
Granito de Oro Island
An island that has become one of the most popular to visit, surrounded by a coral bank, ideal for snorkeling and observing the great diversity of fish that inhabits this area of the National Park. It is necessary to request permission to visit the island so that Visitors can enjoy nature, but at the same time protrect it.
Rancheria Island
It is the third largest island in the park, with 242 hectares and some inlets with beautiful beaches and palm trees. This island is also of great importance for research into species in the area, as there is a Smithsonian Institute laboratory to further investigate marine and island species, as well as their protection.
How to get to Coiba?
To visit this national park, you must take a boat tour from Playa Santa Catalina or Pixvae on the mainland. The boat tours have an approximate cost of US$55.00 and up per person and include snorkeling equipment, cold drinks, local guide, visit to Coiba Island, Granito de Oro Island, Rancheria and even a walk through one of the island’s trails. There are tours that also include lunch and other amenities.
Where to Stay?
In Coiba Island there is the possibility of renting cabins, check availability in advance. However, the most popular option is to stay in one of the wide variety of cabins, hotels or hostels found in Playa Santa Catalina.
