Bocas del Toro was exactly the reset I didn’t know I needed.
While I’ve been to Panama City before, I’ll be honest, I hadn’t even heard of Bocas del Toro before this trip came onto my radar. But the more I researched it—lush islands, Afro-Caribbean culture, wild beaches, and a wellness-forward hotel tucked into the jungle—the more excited I got.
This trip felt different from the start. It wasn’t about checking boxes or chasing highlights. It was slower, more intentional, and deeply restorative in a way that stayed with me long after I unpacked.
So now it’s my turn to get Bocas del Toro and La Coralina Island House on your radar…
From Panama City to Paradise: Getting to Bocas del Toro
The journey started with a smooth flight from SFO to Panama City via Copa Airlines (hooray for a nonstop!), and it was honestly one of the most seamless international flight experiences I’ve had in a while. Comfortable seats, great service, and stress-free logistics set the tone early.
We spent our first night in Panama in the historic heart of the city, Casco Antiguo—a neighborhood known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant energy. Our home base was Hotel La Compañía, a stunning property that blends old-world elegance with modern luxury, all in a central location that makes wandering impossibly easy.
Part of Hyatt’s Unbound collection, La Compañia is absolutely beautiful and has surprises around every corner.
One of my favorite details was Villa Anna, a beautifully restored residence across the street from the main property that has a fascinating history. Now a restaurant with lavishly decorated rooms and a cool rooftop bar and cigar lounge, you have to hand over your cell phone when you enter, as part of the concept includes enjoying the space and dining experience sans phone.
The next morning, we transferred to the domestic airport for a short hop over to Bocas del Toro. Before I knew it, we were descending over emerald-green islands surrounded by electric blue water. Arrival on Isla Colón felt like stepping into another world—humid air, palm trees, and that unmistakable island energy that gets you to unclench your jaw immediately.
Checking In at La Coralina Island House
La Coralina Island House is designed around wellness in the most grounded, non-performative way. Think intentional architecture and design details, thoughtful rituals, and a deep respect for nature and sustainability.
My room felt more like a private jungle hideaway than a hotel suite. The villa was spacious and airy, with its own plunge pool.
Design-wise, I felt like I was back in Bali, with much of the furniture, décor, and woodwork brought over from Indonesia. You’re completely immersed in nature, but without sacrificing comfort or style, which is exactly my sweet spot.
The Wellness Focus: Yoga, Spa Time, and Space to Just Be
La Coralina is centered around holistic wellness experiences that restore balance to body, mind, and spirit. Their team is fantastic at knowing just what you need and customizing your experiences.
Welcome Massage and Aquaflow
We were welcomed with a foot massage and an Aquaflow experience that instantly set the tone. It felt ceremonial in the best way, like the official signal that it was time to slow down and let someone else take care of things for a bit.
I’ve done a floating sound bath before, but this was something super unique. We were basically asked to completely submit, let go, and trust the person carrying us through the water. It was so relaxing and I felt like I was back in the womb!
Yoga
Yoga sessions at the Holistic & Wellness Center were offered daily (and free/open to the community!), in a beautiful, open-air space. Whether you joined or opted to sleep in (hello, it’s me), there was zero pressure—just options.
Temazcal Ceremony
We also participated in a Temazcal ceremony—an ancestral steam ritual designed to cleanse the body and reset the mind. I’m that girl that faints during hot yoga so this wasn’t for me and I only did a few minutes instead of the full hour, but I loved the card reading beforehand. I pulled the buffalo and the bat, which symbolize abundance and transformation—the exact energy I’m bringing into 2026!
Massage Circuit
A wellness retreat wouldn’t be complete without a massage, and once again La Coralina over-delivers. We enjoyed a massage circuit where we moved through the property, starting with a cold plunge, continuing on for stretching in the jungle, and then enjoyed an incredible massage with the ocean waves crashing down beneath us. It was truly magical!
Sound Healing Bath
I love a good sound bath! We experienced a sound healing bath designed to calm the nervous system and help integrate everything from the day. It was one of those experiences where time disappears and you leave feeling lighter than when you arrived. One of the girls fell soundly asleep!
Activities and Adventure
A Cultural Deep Dive: Cacao Experience With the Ngäbe-Buglé Community
One of the most meaningful experiences of the trip was the cacao journey on San Cristóbal Island. A short boat ride brought us to a quieter, more traditional corner of the archipelago, far from any sense of tourism.
We spent the day learning about ancestral cacao traditions with members of the Ngäbe-Buglé community, from harvesting to preparation to the spiritual significance cacao holds in their culture. It was immersive, educational, and deeply grounding.
This wasn’t a surface-level experience. It was slow, intentional, and rooted in storytelling, which made it one of those moments that stays with you long after you’re back home.
Ocean Conservation and Cayo Zapatilla
Another standout day was our full-day marine excursion adventure. Krista, the founder of Mother of Corals gave us an overview of why reef regeneration matters and how their reef restoration efforts are making an impact. As an ocean-lover, I so appreciate the work that she is doing! And this is a good time to remind you to always wear reef-safe sunscreen in the ocean (whether you are near a reef or not). My favorite is Blue Lizard’s mineral spray.
After snorkeling, we zipped over to Zapatilla and had lunch right on the beach, all completely organized by La Coralina. Clear water, soft sand, yummy food, and zero decisions required all felt so luxurious.
La Coralina is such a special place! It balances luxury, wellness, and adventure—all of my favorite things!
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a girls’ trip, or even a business retreat, this property truly has everything you could want.
