The Pearl Islands is a group of 200 or more islands and islets lying about 30 miles off the Pacific coast of Panama in the Gulf of Panama. Wikipedia
Dry Season (December to April): Sunny skies, calm waters — perfect beach weather.
Green Season (May to November): Lush scenery and fewer tourists; short rains, mostly in the afternoon.
Whale Watching Season: July to October, when humpback whales migrate through the area — especially around Isla Contadora and Isla Saboga.
From Panama City:
🚤 Ferry:
Regular service to Isla Contadora and Isla Saboga (1.5 to 2 hours).
🛩️ Flight:
20-minute flights from Albrook Airport to Isla Contadora or San José Island.
Private boat or charter: Available for island hopping or fishing trips.
Advance booking is recommended, especially on weekends or during holiday seasons.
Isla Contadora:
Most developed and tourist-friendly. Several beautiful beaches, restaurants, and small resorts. Great for first-time visitors.
Isla Saboga:
Quiet and eco-friendly. Offers trails, wildlife, and beach relaxation with fewer crowds.
Isla San José:
Privately owned, luxurious, and remote. Ideal for upscale stays and fishing.
Isla del Rey:
The largest island — mostly undeveloped with rustic villages and deep jungle.
Isla Bolaños & Isla Mogo Mogo:
Small, uninhabited islands ideal for snorkeling and day trips.
Beach hopping: Discover white-sand beaches like Playa Larga, Playa Ejecutiva, and Playa Cacique on Contadora.
Snorkeling and diving: Clear waters and coral reefs with tropical fish, rays, and turtles.
Whale watching: Humpbacks are regularly seen between July and October.
Fishing trips: Deep-sea fishing for tuna, dorado, marlin, and snapper.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Calm waters make for easy exploration.
Scenic flights or boat tours: Ideal for a bird’s-eye view of the islands.
Luxury: Private villas, boutique hotels with sea views.
Mid-range: Small resorts and beachfront inns.
Budget: Guesthouses, hostels, and eco-lodges (limited options).
Eco-lodges and glamping: Quiet, sustainable stays surrounded by nature.
Private resorts: Exclusive and remote with private beaches and all-inclusive stays.
Many accommodations include meals or offer kitchens. Dining options are limited outside Contadora.
Isla Contadora: A few small restaurants serve seafood, Latin American, and international dishes.
Local cuisine: Expect fresh fish, ceviche, coconut rice, plantains, and tropical fruits.
Bring snacks: Especially when staying on smaller or less developed islands.
Many islands are sparsely populated or uninhabited.
Contadora and Saboga have small communities with friendly locals and a laid-back vibe.
No large commercial developments — most places are solar-powered and eco-conscious.
Limited Wi-Fi and amenities — it’s a place to unplug and relax.
Bring cash — limited or no ATM access on the islands.
Pack light: Most transportation has luggage limits.
Bring essentials like reef-safe sunscreen, bug spray, snorkel gear, and reusable water bottles.
Ferries may be canceled in rough weather — have a flexible schedule during green season.
Respect nature — the islands are pristine and fragile.