Boca del Drago

Along with Playa Bluff [1], Boca del Drago is another popular beach area, mainly because it’s easily accessible by boat. It lies on the northwest side of Isla Colón [2].

Boca del Drago is also the name of the canal separating this part of Isla Colón from the mainland. The water is tranquil, so landing a boat is not a problem; many of the island tours include a stop here. It’s also possible to take a scenic drive across the island from Bocas town.

This beach isn’t as nice as Palaya Bluff, but it’s much better for swimming and splashing about. Many people who come here don’t realize that beaches continue past the little beach restaurant about a 10-minute walk away.

The most popular is Playa Estrella (a.k.a. Star Beach), named for its abundance of starfish. This is included on many boat tours, so don’t expect to have it all to yourself.

There are coral gardens close by that extend all along the west side of the island. The snorkeling can be decent, but the coral is not in great shape and visibility isn’t always the best.

There’s now a biological field station [3] and some cabins for rent, so Boca del Drago is not as isolated as it used to be, but it’s still a mellow place.

There’s a little thatch-roofed, sand-floored seafood restaurant on the beach called Restaurante Yarisnori (no phone, 8 a.m.–6:30 p.m. Wed.–Mon.). The mixed ceviche is pretty good. Other items include red snapper, shrimp, octopus, lobster, and prawns. Most seafood costs around US$14–19; other dishes average around US$9.

Getting to Boca del Drago

Access to Boca del Drago is by boat, bus, car, or bike. One road extends across the island from Bocas town to Boca del Drago, about 14 kilometers away. A round-trip taxi ride costs US$25 for two people, including a stop at La Gruta [4] for those interested. The bike ride is hilly, and tiring in the heat.