In Chiriqui National Marine Park, near the Costa Rican border, lies a stunning new coast and island destination known as Boca Chica. Chiriqui province, famous as a mountain destination, is now also a new world-class beach and island destination. Boca Chica offers pristine ocean views of tropical blue seas, lush vegetation, picturesque islands of white sand and swaying palms, world-class fishing, diving and snorkeling. Just starting to develop as a destination it already has several very attractive lodgings options from an eco- boutique hotel to a fishing lodge.

How to get there

Easiest way: Some hotels can pick you up in David. You can fly to David Panama City. If you’re crossing the Costa Rican border, Boca Chica is about 45 minutes from David.

By car: Turn off of the Interamerican Highway 24 miles (38km) east of David to get to the little town of Hornocitos, through which you can get to the island. If you are coming from David, the exit will be on your right, and it will be a 3 mile ride to the town. When you reach the three way divide on the road (at the main park of Hornocitos) take the middle one and then after a few hundred meters turn left at the sign for Boca Chica. Once in Hornocitos it’s less than a half hour drive on a dirt road to Boca Chica. Then it’s short ride on a water taxi to Boca Brava Island, from which you can get to any of the other islands.

Where To Stay

Cala Mia Boutique Hotel :

Aisland eco-boutique hotel in a magical setting on a pristine island. Eleven exquisitely designed bungalow are handcrafted by skilled local artisans. An open air restaurant and bar has excellent cuisine with organic produce from the hotel garden. Take nearby nature walks and see sloth, howler monkeys and birds. Facilities include a spa, and yoga exercise area. This is a true eco-resort, powered entirely by solar power.

What To Do

Snorkeling:

Your hotel will have a tour to the nearest best place.

Superlative Beaching:

A popular tour is for your hotel to take you by boat to an idyllic island which you will have all to yourselves for a picnic, swim, snorkeling and sun bathing.

Diving

The area’s abundant sea life is world famous. Your hotel will have a scuba tour or contact Scuba Panama :

Deep Sea Fishing:

Nearby is some of the world’s best fishing grounds!! Hannibal Bank and Coiba Island,one as one of the best places to catch Black Marlin and Yellow Fin Tuna. From November to April, you can catch Blue Marlin, Pacific Sailfish and Dorado.Fishing close to shore and around the numerous islands, will delight novices and experienced fisherman alike. Your hotel can arrange fishing charters and excursions