[1] Often considered the more relaxed alternative to the busy streets and bars of Bocas del Toro District but at only 10 minutes by water taxi Isla Bastimentos is becoming an increasingly popular destination for backpackers.

Most tourists take a 15-minute water taxi ride from Bocas Town to the south side of Bastimentos and walk across the island to Red Frog Beach.

During the rainy season, dolphins can regularly be seen swimming with their offspring within the various coves in the area, accessed only by boat or trail these sightings are truly memorable experiences.

The island is part of the Bocas del Toro Important Bird Area (IBA), designated as such by BirdLife International because it supports significant populations of white-crowned pigeons and three-wattled bellbirds.

[3] Between the months of April to June and August through October the water conditions tend to be the calmest, and at times this portion of the island can be accessed.

[4] Although the larger wave season stretches from August to March, the island can still be accessed easily and many surfers come to the area, and there are many sunny days during this period.