Bocas del Drago & Starfish Beach

Bocas del Drago

A calm beach area on the far side of Isla Colón famous for Starfish Beach, where colorful sea stars dot the shallows. The gentle turquoise waters make it ideal for families and easy swimming.

Things to do

• Spot starfish at Starfish Beach — Wade through the calm shallows to see dozens of orange and red sea stars resting on the sandy bottom.
• Swim at Bocas del Drago — Enjoy the sheltered turquoise waters that stay gentle and shallow, perfect for young children and relaxed swimming.
• Snorkel the shallow reef — Bring a mask to explore small coral patches and colorful reef fish near the calm coastline.
• Walk the coastal path to Starfish Beach — Follow the shoreline trail from Bocas del Drago through mangroves and coconut palms to reach the famous star-studded cove.
• Beach picnic and hammock lounging — Rent a hammock under the palms and spend a lazy afternoon between the shade and the water.
• Boat trip to Bird Island — Take a short local boat excursion to Isla Pájaros to see nesting seabirds and dramatic rock formations.

Food to try

• Fresh grilled fish — Beachside stands and small restaurants serve locally caught red snapper grilled with lime and garlic.
• Patacones — Twice-fried green plantain slices served crispy and salted as a classic Panamanian side.
• Coconut rice with seafood — Rice cooked in fresh coconut milk, often paired with shrimp or fish, reflecting the Caribbean coast flavors.
• Fresh coconut water — Vendors machete open green coconuts straight from the palms for a cold, natural drink.
• Ceviche — Chilled fish or shellfish marinated in lime with onion and cilantro, sold at casual beach eateries.

Local customs & good to know

• Never remove the starfish from the water — Taking sea stars out of the water harms them, so admire and photograph them while keeping them submerged.
• Bring cash — There are no ATMs at the beach and small restaurants and boat operators typically only accept cash in US dollars.
• Respect the local Ngäbe communities — The area is home to indigenous families, so ask before photographing people and support their small stalls and eateries.
• Come prepared for a remote spot — Facilities are basic, so pack water, sunscreen, and snacks since services are limited at Bocas del Drago.

Nearby

• Isla Colón — 6 km
• Playa Bluff — 9 km
• Bocas Town — 13 km
• Isla Carenero — 14 km