Do people mostly stay on the islands and rely on water taxis for transportation? I would like to know more about the Bocas del Toro area.

Appreciate any info!

Haven't been, but was considering it for surfing honeymoon. We're going to CR instead, b/c the waves are more consistent/easier, but I definitely want to go in the future. Anyhow, I spoke to a lot of people, and yes, rely on water taxis to get around. Which island you stay on seems to depend on if you want to be near the nightlife or near the prettier beaches. I'm jealous - definitely going there sometime in the future - hopefully before it is too built up.

Venicegirl,
We did consider going to Costa Rica, have not been there yet. But we decided on Panama instead because it isn't as popular as CR and I agree that it could become built up in the future. Have fun!

The whole province is called Bocas del Toro, and most of that is land, but when most people use the name, they are talking about the islands, and those are the attraction. Most of the lodgings and restaurants are on Isla Colon in the main town, also called Bocas del Toro. You can find places to stay on a few of the other islands too. It's a fun place to spend a few days.

Yes, water taxis zipping all over the place--just like car taxis. They take you everywhere. Very easy. We loved it. Stayed 4 nights just to get as much chill time in as we could. Great place for that!

Where are you planning to stay? I started planning a trip there and couldn't decide between quite a few places. Maybe we'll actually make it there later this year...