Bocas del Toro

The islands of Bocas del Toro have something for everyone. Simultaneously a backpacker party hub, couples’ chilled-out Caribbean paradise, and expat enclave, the three main islands and scores of uninhabited islets also boast some of Panama’s finest beaches.

Bocas Town on Isla Colón is party central. Everything from hostels to handicraft stores is housed in brightly painted, charming clapboard buildings.

Go starfish spotting at Playa Estrella, where the calm waters are perfect for snorkeling. Then kick back over killer cocktails and just-caught fish at over-the-water El Último Refugio.

Planning tip: For jungle-backed beaches, coral-fringed cays and magical surf breaks at Wizard Beach, island hop to Isla Bastimentos. Home to a namesake marine park, this important conservation area contains mangroves, monkeys, crocodiles and caimans, among other wild things, with superb snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities to match.