"What a wonderful stay! The room was super clean and the area was beautiful. We had an interesting night walk where we learnt so much. The hosts were super kind and accommodating. Wish I was still there!"
"What a wonderful stay! The room was super clean and the area was beautiful. We had an interesting night walk where we learnt so much. The hosts were super kind and accommodating. Wish I was still there!"
"This place rocks! At the end of the Main Street , so easy walking everywhere. Great views of the ocean and town. Staff was great and breakfast was terrific. Will definitely stay there again."
"This place rocks! At the end of the Main Street , so easy walking everywhere. Great views of the ocean and town. Staff was great and breakfast was terrific. Will definitely stay there again."
"Incredibly sweet hosts and gorgeous property, kayaks and paddle boards, fabulous food, from A to Z, everything was top notch, highly recommend, would give it a 20/10!"
"Incredibly sweet hosts and gorgeous property, kayaks and paddle boards, fabulous food, from A to Z, everything was top notch, highly recommend, would give it a 20/10!"
"Great place in a little paradise with the perfect beach front location. A place to slow down, recharge and rest. One of those places you will come back again and again. Operated by the owners in a very family way, making you feel like home"
"Great place in a little paradise with the perfect beach front location. A place to slow down, recharge and rest. One of those places you will come back again and again. Operated by the owners in a very family way, making you feel like home"
"Loved staying here. Itās middle of the jungle! Staff is amazing! Make huge difference! I think they need to do more activities, haber more options to eat as itās in a island and to get more options you need to go to town. and improve WiFi connection."
"Loved staying here. Itās middle of the jungle! Staff is amazing! Make huge difference! I think they need to do more activities, haber more options to eat as itās in a island and to get more options you need to go to town. and improve WiFi connection."
"This place was perfect. I walked into town and beach every day. They have a fully functional outdoor community kitchen which is perfect for families. A family cooked there every day and I made smoothies. It was very clean and staff was extremely nice and helpful. Will be back."
"This place was perfect. I walked into town and beach every day. They have a fully functional outdoor community kitchen which is perfect for families. A family cooked there every day and I made smoothies. It was very clean and staff was extremely nice and helpful. Will be back."
"Excellent stay, beautiful location - best receptionist (angie) and owner thats ever welcomed me at my stay, close to good food (pipa) and beach - highly recommended"
"Excellent stay, beautiful location - best receptionist (angie) and owner thats ever welcomed me at my stay, close to good food (pipa) and beach - highly recommended"
"We had a great time and the location was a perfect fit. The bay is quiet and beautiful to enjoy some outside the center. Still reachable in a short taxi ride, all was great and we truly enjoyed Boca del Toro!"
"We had a great time and the location was a perfect fit. The bay is quiet and beautiful to enjoy some outside the center. Still reachable in a short taxi ride, all was great and we truly enjoyed Boca del Toro!"
"Great room overlooking the water with a nice comfortable covered balcony. Right in the middle of many bars restaurants and shopping. All of the staff were super friendly!"
"Great room overlooking the water with a nice comfortable covered balcony. Right in the middle of many bars restaurants and shopping. All of the staff were super friendly!"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Institute for Tropical Ecology & Conservation - Bocas del Toro Biological Station
7.8/10 (6 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Institute for Tropical Ecology & Conservation - Bocas del Toro Biological Station during your travels in Boca del Drago. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Tortuga Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Big Creek. Stroll along this relaxing area's seaside, or simply enjoy its restaurants.
great location, right on beach; room and bathroom were clean; hot water steady; good wi-fi (connect to the many SSIDs on the property); the restaurant has one of the best food we had in Bocas; the area get very crowded during the day with day trippers and Instagrammers; if you are staying overnight, just wait until ~4/5 PM - you'll have the place to yourself; walk to starfish beach is and other small beach spots around the area; note: laundry is $8 and not self-serve or free as advertised; the...
great location, right on beach; room and bathroom were clean; hot water steady; good wi-fi (connect to the many SSIDs on the property); the restaurant has one of the best food we had in Bocas; the area get very crowded during the day with day trippers and Instagrammers; if you are staying overnight, just wait until ~4/5 PM - you'll have the place to yourself; walk to starfish beach is and other small beach spots around the area; note: laundry is $8 and not self-serve or free as advertised; the...
Alan, the owner of the property was so very helpful during our entire stay. He always took the time to talk with us about the activities available and how to arrange. This property is within walking distance to everything we needed. His staff is friendly and the breakfast was always very good. This property was always clean. I would highly recommend Lulas! The guests were from all over the world and we found everyone to be very friendly. There is a nice area upstairs right outside of the rooms...
Alan, the owner of the property was so very helpful during our entire stay. He always took the time to talk with us about the activities available and how to arrange. This property is within walking distance to everything we needed. His staff is friendly and the breakfast was always very good. This property was always clean. I would highly recommend Lulas! The guests were from all over the world and we found everyone to be very friendly. There is a nice area upstairs right outside of the rooms...
Perfect spot to relax, swim out your back door and get away from it all. Really unique facilities. Great snorkeling - out your back door. Would love to come back. Nothing to complain about!
Perfect spot to relax, swim out your back door and get away from it all. Really unique facilities. Great snorkeling - out your back door. Would love to come back. Nothing to complain about!
There was nothing we didn't like about the Bungalows! They were very clean, comfortable and the view from the deck was gorgeous. Our hosts, Alfred and Sonia, were so helpful and generous. They shared tips about the islands, and booked the water taxis, so we were never stranded or overcharged. Sonia is the "Queen of Breakfast". Jerry, the chef, was not only an excellent cook, but he was also very atuned to our tastes and requests. The rooms are fully stocked, and if we needed anything, it was...
There was nothing we didn't like about the Bungalows! They were very clean, comfortable and the view from the deck was gorgeous. Our hosts, Alfred and Sonia, were so helpful and generous. They shared tips about the islands, and booked the water taxis, so we were never stranded or overcharged. Sonia is the "Queen of Breakfast". Jerry, the chef, was not only an excellent cook, but he was also very atuned to our tastes and requests. The rooms are fully stocked, and if we needed anything, it was...
Great place in a little paradise with the perfect beach front location. A place to slow down, recharge and rest. One of those places you will come back again and again. Operated by the owners in a very family way, making you feel like home
Great place in a little paradise with the perfect beach front location. A place to slow down, recharge and rest. One of those places you will come back again and again. Operated by the owners in a very family way, making you feel like home
A Magical Rainforest Escape ā Highly Recommended!
We absolutely loved our stay at Ataraxia eco lodge! The property is run by a very nice couple who make you feel incredibly welcome from the moment you arrive.
It is beautifully located right in the rainforest, allowing you to completely immerse yourself in nature. During our stay, we loved watching monkeys playing, spotting sloths, and seeing a variety of beautiful tropical birds right from the property.
The food was another major highlight. The...
A Magical Rainforest Escape ā Highly Recommended!
We absolutely loved our stay at Ataraxia eco lodge! The property is run by a very nice couple who make you feel incredibly welcome from the moment you arrive.
It is beautifully located right in the rainforest, allowing you to completely immerse yourself in nature. During our stay, we loved watching monkeys playing, spotting sloths, and seeing a variety of beautiful tropical birds right from the property.
The food was another major highlight. The...
Lana
Reviewed October 10, 2026Reviewed October 10, 2026
The experience since the arrival was spectacular. The location, the service, the food experience.
We are a family of 4, 3 surfers and 1 non-surfer, and all of us had a great time. The spa was a great experience as well for us 4.
There are several options for day-trips that can be arranged at the front desk.
The experience since the arrival was spectacular. The location, the service, the food experience.
We are a family of 4, 3 surfers and 1 non-surfer, and all of us had a great time. The spa was a great experience as well for us 4.
There are several options for day-trips that can be arranged at the front desk.
My stay at the Lodge at Punta Rica was one of the most enjoyable and relaxing vacations I have ever had. Nestled on a hilltop on Bastimentos Island and overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the lodge was a peaceful haven of tranquility, beauty, and relaxationāexactly what I needed after a hectic and stressful season of life. The hotel staff met me at the airport and transported me by boat to Bastimentos Island, a short 20-minute ride from Bocas del Toro Isla Colón.
Brian and Dan, the owners of the...
My stay at the Lodge at Punta Rica was one of the most enjoyable and relaxing vacations I have ever had. Nestled on a hilltop on Bastimentos Island and overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the lodge was a peaceful haven of tranquility, beauty, and relaxationāexactly what I needed after a hectic and stressful season of life. The hotel staff met me at the airport and transported me by boat to Bastimentos Island, a short 20-minute ride from Bocas del Toro Isla Colón.
Brian and Dan, the owners of the...
The room was full of beautiful details, and Mandy and JP were lovely hosts and very helpful with recommendations. Casa Acuario clearly a labour of love, would highly recommend a stay here
The room was full of beautiful details, and Mandy and JP were lovely hosts and very helpful with recommendations. Casa Acuario clearly a labour of love, would highly recommend a stay here
What a great adventure to Bocas del Toro and a fabulous stay at the hotel Tropical Suites! From the moment we stepped in the door and saw the Ocean Sparkling in the background, we fell in love with our hotel and vacation locale. Tropical Suites is a lovely, boutique-sized hotel with a staff that continually went out of their way to be a resource to each of our many questions. The rooms were as comfortable as they were spotless, and we enjoyed the āluxuryā amenities found in the room (e.g.,...
What a great adventure to Bocas del Toro and a fabulous stay at the hotel Tropical Suites! From the moment we stepped in the door and saw the Ocean Sparkling in the background, we fell in love with our hotel and vacation locale. Tropical Suites is a lovely, boutique-sized hotel with a staff that continually went out of their way to be a resource to each of our many questions. The rooms were as comfortable as they were spotless, and we enjoyed the āluxuryā amenities found in the room (e.g.,...
Linwood
Reviewed January 23, 2012Reviewed January 23, 2012
Excellent, memorable stay in overwater bungalows. Great staff. Bring your snorkel gear and enjoy breakfast in bed. Bring ear plugs, like the rest of the entire area- music in the night keeps us light sleepers awake.
Excellent, memorable stay in overwater bungalows. Great staff. Bring your snorkel gear and enjoy breakfast in bed. Bring ear plugs, like the rest of the entire area- music in the night keeps us light sleepers awake.
Sarah
Reviewed September 1, 2023Reviewed September 1, 2023
This place was perfect. I walked into town and beach every day. They have a fully functional outdoor community kitchen which is perfect for families. A family cooked there every day and I made smoothies. It was very clean and staff was extremely nice and helpful. Will be back.
This place was perfect. I walked into town and beach every day. They have a fully functional outdoor community kitchen which is perfect for families. A family cooked there every day and I made smoothies. It was very clean and staff was extremely nice and helpful. Will be back.
Stunning Beaches: Enjoy the pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
Snorkeling Adventures: Explore vibrant marine life through exceptional snorkeling experiences in the area.
Starfish Spotting: Witness beautiful starfish at Playa Estrella, a unique natural attraction.
Scenic Boat Trips: Take in breathtaking views of the surrounding nature on relaxing boat tours.
Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming bed & breakfasts to overwater lodges for a unique stay.
Find great hotels near Starfish Beach
If you're seeking a memorable getaway at Starfish Beach, Bocas del Toro, you'll find a variety of lodging options tailored to your preferences. From charming bed & breakfasts to inviting hotels, there's something for everyone. Enjoy unique experiences like overwater accommodations, or relax at popular spots such as Surfari Bocas, Los Delfines, Casa Acuario, and Casa Cayuco. Whether you're looking for adventure or a pet-friendly retreat, Starfish Beach has the perfect place for your stay.
Playa Tortuga Hotel Beach And Resort: Nestled 9.7km away from Starfish Beach, Playa Tortuga Hotel Beach And Resort is a 4-star retreat perfect for nature lovers and families. This hotel offers a romantic ambiance with features like ocean and pool views from its dining areas. Families can enjoy amenities tailored for children, including a dedicated kids' pool. For couples, romance packages and room service create intimate dining experiences. Guests can unwind at the outdoor pool, complete with sun loungers and a poolside bar, while the on-site spa offers soothing treatments for a truly relaxing getaway.
Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge: Located 4.8km from Starfish Beach, this 3.5-star lodge is ideal for adventure-seekers and pet lovers. Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge offers an array of activities, including kayaking, snorkeling, and ziplining. The property features romantic packages and ocean views from its restaurant, enhancing the experience for couples. Guests can enjoy limited room service and champagne service for special occasions. With nearby spa facilities, this lodge invites relaxation after a day of adventure. Plus, it welcomes pets, making it a great choice for those traveling with furry companions.
Oasis Bluff Beach: Situated 8.0km from Starfish Beach, Oasis Bluff Beach is a welcoming 3-star lodge that embraces LGBTQIA travelers. With direct beach access, itās perfect for those seeking an adventurous and vibrant beach vacation. Guests can partake in activities like boat tours, horse riding, and snorkeling. The lodge's affiliation with LGBTQI travel guides ensures an inclusive atmosphere. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or explore the local marine life, Oasis Bluff Beach offers a unique blend of adventure and community spirit.
Where to stay near Starfish Beach
Discover the enchanting allure of Starfish Beach in Bocas del Toro, where relaxation meets adventure. This idyllic destination offers pristine sands and vibrant marine life, perfect for a beach getaway. Venture to the nearby Bluff Beach for breathtaking views and a quieter atmosphere. Whether youāre soaking up the sun or exploring the local culture, the friendly people and stunning surroundings will make your vacation unforgettable.
Bocas del Toro: Bocas del Toro is a vibrant city located 11.3km from Starfish Beach, renowned for its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings. Travelers flock here year-round, with peak seasons in January to February and July. Known for its stunning beaches and outdoor adventures, Bocas del Toro presents a mix of shopping experiences and nature excursions. Visitors can explore a shopping center, embark on a treetop walk, or relax on the beautiful beaches. The nearby national park and islands add to the allure, making it a perfect base for adventure seekers.
Boca del Drago: Nestled right next to Starfish Beach, Boca del Drago is a charming village that draws travelers for its serene environment and outdoor activities. Visitor numbers peak from January to March, providing ample opportunities for beach lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The village is ideal for those seeking a laid-back experience, with local outdoor venues that showcase the natural beauty of the region. With its proximity to beautiful beaches and islands, Boca del Drago is the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.
Isla Colon: Positioned just 6.4km from Starfish Beach, Isla Colon is a picturesque island celebrated for its pristine beaches and outdoor excitement. The island sees consistent visitor numbers throughout the year, with peaks in January and March to April. Isla Colon offers a variety of activities, including spa retreats and treetop walks, catering to those looking for relaxation and adventure alike. With its marina and stunning coastal views, it's a fantastic destination for travelers seeking both leisure and exploration.
Things to do near Starfish Beach
At Starfish Beach in Bocas del Toro, enjoy a variety of exciting activities including beach tours and specialized starfish beach tours. Explore the stunning underwater world through beautiful snorkeling experiences, or embark on an adventurous surfari bocas for some thrilling surf. Don't miss out on scenic boat trips that allow you to soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding nature while relaxing in this tropical paradise.
Shopping
At Starfish Beach, you can find local vendors selling handmade crafts and souvenirs right on the beach. If you're up for a drive, visit the Plaza de la Independencia in Bocas Town for more shopping options, including clothing stores and artisanal goods made by local artisans.
Recreation
Lil' Spa Shop by the Sea offers a rejuvenating body treatment experience set in a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. For sports enthusiasts, Calvin Byron Stadium provides an energetic environment to enjoy various athletic activities, making it a great place to engage in recreational pursuits.
Adventure
At Bastimentos Sky Zipline, located 17.7km from Starfish Beach, experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops on an exhilarating zipline course. With stunning views and an adrenaline-pumping atmosphere, this adventure venue promises an unforgettable outdoor experience for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
Nightlife
Experience the laid-back vibe at Starfish Beach with beach bonfires and lively gatherings. For a fun night, visit the beachfront bars for refreshing cocktails and enjoy local music. Don't miss the chance to dance under the stars while soaking up the tropical atmosphere.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Starfish Beach
To save money on your trip to Starfish Beach, consider visiting between August and October when prices are lower. Book your accommodations about a month in advance for the best deals, and check last-minute offers on platforms like Expedia. Saturdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are the most expensive. Utilize Expediaās filters to find eco-friendly hotels that fit your budget and preferences. Combining your hotel with flights and activities in a package deal can also lead to additional savings. Look for free activities like beach lounging and snorkeling to maximize your enjoyment without extra costs.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Starfish Beach are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Starfish Beach is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Starfish Beach is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Starfish Beach is Tuesday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, location, and desired hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Starfish Beach with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions near Starfish Beach
At Starfish Beach in Bocas del Toro, visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including pristine beaches, adventure-filled outdoor activities, and fascinating caves. While exploring the area, don't miss the chance to witness starfish at Playa Estrella and soak up the sun on some of the best beaches in Panama. Starfish Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a memorable getaway.
Tortuga Beach: Situated 9.7km away, Tortuga Beach is a stunning destination known for its picturesque shoreline and inviting waters. It's the perfect spot to relax, sunbathe, and soak in the beach vibes.
La Gruta Cave: Just 6.4km from Starfish Beach, La Gruta Cave invites outdoor enthusiasts to embark on an adventure through its intriguing formations and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for explorers.
Best time to go to Starfish Beach
The best time to visit Starfish Beach is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May, June and September are its hottest month on average. At the time of June, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy. January and February are its coolest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
76.6°F (24.8°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Slightly High
February
76.6°F (24.8°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Average
March
77.2°F (25.1°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately High
Average
April
78.6°F (25.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
May
79.7°F (26.5°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately Low
Average
June
79.7°F (26.5°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately Low
Average
July
79.2°F (26.2°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
August
79.3°F (26.3°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
September
79.7°F (26.5°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Moderately Low
Slightly Low
October
79.2°F (26.2°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
November
78.1°F (25.6°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
December
77.2°F (25.1°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly High
The nearest major airports for your trip to Starfish Beach
Traveling to Starfish Beach in Bocas del Toro, Panama, is convenient via Bocas del Toro International Airport (BOC), located 11.3km away. Nearby hotel options include the 4-star Red Frog Beach Island Resort, situated 8.0km from the airport, and the Playa Tortuga Hotel Beach And Resort, just 1.6km away, offering various shuttle services. The 3.5-star La Coralina Island House is also a great choice, located 3.2km from the airport, providing a 24-hour shuttle and free transportation. Each hotel ensures easy access to the airport, making your journey to Starfish Beach seamless and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the area like around Starfish Beach?
Starfish Beach is located in Boca del Drago. You'll find 27 hotels and other accommodations within a few miles for a convenient home base.
What's the best place to stay close to Starfish Beach?
Located a short 0.9 mi (1.4 km) from Starfish Beach, Yarisnori is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data. Another good option is Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge, located 2.6 mi (4.3 km) away.
How many hotels should I expect to find close to Starfish Beach?
Expedia has 27 hotels and other accommodations a few miles from Starfish Beach.
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Starfish Beach, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most hotel bookings are refundable provided that you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to cancel it and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Enter your dates, click on "Search", then you can filter by "fully refundable" to review top deals close to Starfish Beach.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near Starfish Beach?