Hola,
We are playing tourist and want to go to either Boca Chica or Bocas del Toro. We are interested in snorkeling, mid range for hotel. We are one quiet side. We only have time for one choice.
Which do you prefer to visit and what place to stay?
Thank you in advance for your helpful tips!
Brenda & David.
Replies
To live or deep sea fish, Boca Chica.
To visit once and be able to speak English and get what you want, and some finer dining, Bocas Del Toro.
My first trip there spooked me a little because people were chasing my car and the people wearing ID badges are the people authorized to ensure the safety of the car, follow them when you arrive.
Parking last checked was $4 per day, The water taxi (forget the price but reasonable) will be your next ride luggage and all.
Bocas has a party atmosphere and may be noisy at night depending on where you stay. The Swans Cay Hotel (I think it was named) was away from the center of the noise but you could faintly still hear the night clubs in the distance.
You have the option to visit many different beaches from this point. All small boatmen are negotiable for trips so ask a few and go with the cheapest and shave off some and re tip them with the shavings if you enjoyed the trip. Bring a cooler and whatever you want with you on the boat.
Bocas del Drago....heaven on earth!
Jan - will do. How long have you lived in the Boquete area?
All, We have decided to go to Boca because we are dependent on buss or a shuttle. Mamallena's goes to Bocas. We are going to stay at Sand Dollar B & B. Next time Boca Chica.
The two have completely different vibes. Bocas has a Bob Marley feel to it, is full of young backpackers and is rough around the edges, which is fun. However, some of the nicest beaches have become overrun with crappy restaurants, souvenir vendors, blasting music and trash. Starfish beach is a complete waste of time now, since there are only a handful of starfish left. But Bocas does have better snorkeling than the pacific side.
Boca Chica is smaller, therefore quieter. It still has a lovely charm about it. We have been to Boca Brava (cheaper) and Seagull Cove (not cheap). Went shell hunting and canoeing. Very relaxed.
After returning to Bocas this year and seeing how spoiled our favorite spots are, we probably wouldn't return. I would vote for Boca Chica. Faster to get to and quieter.
Bocas del Toro has better snorkeling, better restaurants and better hotels. Boca Chica is a tiny fishing village with few amenties.