Boca Chica
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: your hotel will pick you up in 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 :
A stunning new island eco-boutique hotel on the point of a pristine island. Eleven exquisitely designed bungalow suites, handcrafted by skilled local artisans make up this boutique hotel, where you don’t need keys and shoes are optional. The exquisite cuisine at the on premise restaurant could not receive high enough praise, and facilities include a spa, and yoga exercise area. This is a true eco-resort, powered entirely by solar power.
Seagullcove Lodge:
Only five discreetly nestled ocean front bungalows make up this first-class yet casual, intimate boutique hotel. Dine on world-class Italian cuisine at this European style resort, step down into the beach from your own private deck and soak in the warm waters of the Chiriqui Gulf. A perfect balance of exotic and relaxing, with full amenities, including satellite TV.
Gone Fishing:
This small, secluded vacation paradise offers a surprising variety of activities, including snorkeling, whale watching, day sailing, swimming, beaching, in-shore fishing and their famous big game fishing charters. Includes an on premise restaurant offering gourmet meals al fresco amidst panoramic ocean views and a full service marina. Transportation available by request.
What To Do
Snorkeling:
Around San Jose island. Your hotel will have tours.
Beaching on idyllic islands: Beaching at Isla Bolanos, 45 minutes by boat, or 20 minutes further to Isla Gamez.
Scuba diving:
Around Isla Las Ladrones and Islas Secas—this is where the water is the clearest and it is abundant with sea life. Because these islands are so far away (40 kilometers southeast of Boca Brava), the easiest way to visit these islands is through the high end Islas Secas eco resort.To book a diving tour we recommend Scuba Panama and Panama Divers: Attractions: Diving & Snorkeling
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.