Gulf of Chiriqui

The Chiriquí National Marine Park on the Pacific coast is a collection of 25 islands and 19 coral reefs, home to an extraordinary diversity of terrestrial and marine life.  Amongst the lush island vegetation and sandy beaches reside three species of monkey, four species of turtle, and a plethora of bird species.  Underwater, the reefs are rich with colourful marine life, and humpback whales, hammerhead sharks, dolphins and schools of giant manta rays are frequently observed. 

Cala Mia Island Resort

Boca Brava, the largest of the park's islands, is the setting for this small, boutique resort surrounded by nature - the Pacific Ocean and rainforests full of wildlife.  The resort has a small number of beautifully designed bungalows, infinity pool, private beach  and a bar and restaurant with magnificent views of other islands and bays.

 
Coiba Island National Park
In the Gulf of Chiriquí but distinct from the marine park, Coiba National Park is a wild, unspoiled island (Panama's largest) cloaked in virgin rainforest and the subject of much research on the unique fauna and flora, which evolved in isolation after Coiba split from the mainland around 18000 years ago. Until 2004 the island was a penal colony, effectively protecting its natural environment from degradation, so that now it harbours several endemic birds and mammals (including sub-species of howler monkey, agouti and possum). The surrounding waters support the eastern Pacific's second largest coral reef and provide world-class diving on offshore pinnacles for encounters with many species of sharks (including bull, whale and tiger), other pelagics and huge schools of fish. Twenty-three cetacean species inhabit the waters, including humpback and sperm whales. Accommodation for visitors is limited to camping or staying in one of the basic park huts, and dive gear is brought over from the mainland. A visit to this island should be regarded as a rare privilege, whatever discomforts may be endured.