Private archipelago sanctuary
Powered entirely by solar energy, the secluded Pacific archipelago pairs raw marine wilderness with barefoot luxury for just a few dozen guests.
Where it shines
Remarkable
Open-air bamboo cathedral palapas, custom reclaimed teak furniture, and canvas-walled ocean casitas by Tom Scheerer.
Remarkable
Private Twin Otter flights, dedicated hosts, and tailor-made dock-to-dish meals for just thirty-two guests.
Remarkable
Guided humpback whale expeditions, private diving at Coiba National Park, and boat picnics across fourteen private islands.
What they say
UK Readers' Choice Awards – The Americas
Condé Nast Traveler
2025
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
Surrounding waters host migrating humpback whales and vibrant coral reefs, with the marine reserve of Coiba National Park easily reached by boat.
The rooms
Canvas-walled casitas feature wraparound timber decks and open-air soaking tubs, while premium villas add private plunge pools overlooking the Pacific.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Submerged loungers sit inside the oceanfront infinity pool, looking straight out across the open Pacific.
The spa
Open-air garden pavilions host holistic bodywork and facials using local coconut oil, jasmine, and ylang-ylang.
Restaurant
The Terraza
Tables beneath the soaring bamboo roof look across the bay, serving daily Panamanian menus and fresh Pacific seafood.
How it began
Set across fourteen volcanic islands, only Isla Cavada is developed, leaving the surrounding archipelago completely protected for wildlife conservation.
Stay here
Islas Secas Resort
See rooms and prices on the hotel's own website.
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Boca Chica
More like this
Isla Palenque
“Private island lodge”
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.