Islas Secas, a stunning archipelago off the Pacific coast of Panama, has introduced a Marine Safari aimed at providing a deep dive into the extraordinary biodiversity of this tropical paradise. Nestled within the vibrant Gulf of Chiriquí, Islas Secas consists of 14 volcanic islands, with 13 remaining untouched.
Located on a secluded island along the Pacific Coast of Panama, Islas Secas presents a haven for those seeking an unrivalled getaway. This privately-owned archipelago combines opulence and environmental responsibility, ensuring a harmonious coexistence with nature. Enter Islas Secas, a highly exclusive, privately-owned archipelago in Panama, that is calling on safari enthusiasts to head to the sea for an unforgettable experience.
The luxury resort is an idyllic base from where guests can undertake immersive natural experiences by sea, whether it be snorkeling or diving amidst the aquatic wonders of the Gulf of Chiriquí; ‘flying’ along the coastline on an e-foil surfboard; or marvelling at the incredible biodiversity of Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The 14 spectacular islands that make up Islas Secas – 13 of which remain undisturbed and are left to nature to flourish – are home to just four individually designed Casitas and three Tented Casitas, hosting a maximum of just 24 guests at any time. No two Casitas are the same, but they are each embraced by the island’s flourishing greenery, affording dreamlike ocean views from their private plunge pools and authentic thatched-roof cabanas. The largest Casita – Casita Grande – is the most exclusive hideaway, perfect for families or groups of friends looking to celebrate. This sanctuary of modern comfort and barefoot luxury, nestled within private tropical gardens, is beautifully appointed and boasts four separate casitas connected by a broad terrace, perfect for idyllic sunrise yoga sessions. The indoor-outdoor living space gives Casita Grande a true bohemian vibe, which is further enhanced by the island’s lush surroundings, offering awe-inspiring ocean views, a private plunge pool and open-air thatched-roof cabana for al fresco dining and sundowners.
Islas Secas is the gateway to the Gulf of Chiriquí National Marine Park, part of one of the most productive oceans in the world – the Eastern Tropical Pacific, home to exceptional biodiversity including rare migratory species such as whale sharks, giant manta, humpback whales, tuna, and sea turtles. The Gulf of Chiriquí extends along Panama’s Pacific coast from the Costa Rican border to the Azuero Peninsula. It offers abundant vegetation, charming white-sand islands, and one of the largest coral reefs in the Pacific, making it a spectacular destination for ocean adventure. The Gulf is home to one of Central America’s densest mangrove forests, as well as Panamá’s largest island, Coiba. Counting over 750 species of fish and 114 species of bird, Islas Secas affords intrepid travellers endless opportunities to observe wildlife up-close. Visitors are truly spoilt for choice here, with an array of sustainable, environmentally responsible sea safari activities, including:
WHALE WATCHING
From April to October, Islas Secas sets the scene for an inimitable front-row viewing of the migration of two distinct populations of Humpback Whales, one from feeding areas off Antarctica and Chile and the other from the Northern Hemisphere. Visitors can expect to see large “pods” of Humpback Whales right from the resort’s shoreline, with best-practice boat trips also available to those desiring a closer look at this magnificent species in its natural habitat. The whales’ breaching, spy hopping, tail slapping and lob tailing will leave guests with no doubt as to why Panama’s whale-watching is some of the best in the world.
SCUBA DIVING & SNORKELLING
Within the protected archipelago itself, guests have access to over 20 dive sites suited to all levels of experience, from expert divers and snorkelers to families wanting to embark on their first underwater experience together. Adventurers can discover colourful coral reef life in protected areas or head to deep waters to drift around seamounts and pinnacles – amidst manta rays and dolphins. Approximately 20 miles southeast of Islas Secas is Isla de Coiba, part of Coiba National Marine Park and Marine Protection Zone. Coiba also plays host to migrating humpback whales, turtles, whale sharks and a myriad of marine creatures. Here, curious travellers can enjoy magical snorkeling and scuba diving alongside kaleidoscopic sealife.
KAYAKING
For active explorers, Islas Secas offers guided kayaking tours through hidden pockets within the archipelago. Ideal for families of all ages, expert guides can lead groups to the most far-reaching islands to paddle around caves, marvel at blow holes, watch birds circle above and take in the astonishing variety of flora clinging to the cliff edges. Guests also have an extraordinary opportunity to paddle to two small mangrove clusters in front of the resort’s Terraza, the main gathering space at Islas Secas, that are ideal breeding grounds for fish, shrimp, crabs, and other shellfish, as well as barracuda, tarpon, and snook, all of which find shelter here as juveniles before moving out to the open ocean as adults.
WATER SPORTS & BOATING
The Islas Secas Watersports Centre is equipped to arrange exhilarating marine activities including stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, sailing, sea-bobbing, e-foiling, wakeboarding, and catamarans. The water sports experiences available at Islas Secas can be arranged for groups or privately, or they can provide a wonderful boat tour through the islands – to your own secluded island for the day, or for an unforgettable sunset cruise around the archipelago.
BIRDWATCHING
Islas Secas is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 100 resident and migratory birds constantly putting on a show. One can take a private boat to Isla Cocos, home to the largest magnificent frigate bird colony in the Gulf of Chiriquí, and spot the spectacular species and their chicks up-close. Alternatively, land lovers can hike jungled trails with an expert birding guide to spot abundant avian life in the canopy and over the coastline. For those who would rather unwind poolside in their private Casita, binoculars are readily available for a more personal bird sighting experience.
