Coiba Is More Than an Island — It Is One of the Last Untouched Paradises on Earth

Discover One of the Pacific’s Most Extraordinary Natural Treasures

Just off the coast of Santa Catalina lies Coiba National Park, one of Central America’s most spectacular natural destinations. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the park protects the largest island in Central America, along with 38 surrounding islands and islets, and one of the world’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems.

The History of Coiba

Coiba Island remained isolated from the mainland for thousands of years, allowing many unique species of plants and animals to evolve. In 1919, it became a penal colony, limiting human access for nearly a century. Ironically, this isolation helped preserve its forests, beaches, and coral reefs in an almost untouched state. After the prison permanently closed in 2004, the area’s protection was strengthened, and just one year later it was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, Coiba is considered one of the world’s most important natural laboratories for biodiversity research.

How to Visit Coiba

The easiest way to visit the park is from Santa Catalina, the main departure point for tours to the archipelago.

Most tours include:

• Boat transportation
• Certified guide
• Snorkeling equipment
• Lunch
• Drinks
• Visits to several islands and beaches
• Time to swim and explore

Most excursions are full-day experiences, allowing visitors to discover some of the park’s most iconic locations.

Things to Do in Coiba National Park

🐠 Snorkeling

Crystal-clear waters offer exceptional visibility and an incredible diversity of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and vibrant coral reefs.

🤿 Scuba Diving

Coiba is internationally recognized as one of the best scuba diving destinations in the Tropical Eastern Pacific. Depending on the season, divers may encounter hammerhead sharks, manta rays, whale sharks, and massive schools of tropical fish.

🏝️ Visit Pristine Beaches

The park is home to secluded white-sand beaches surrounded by tropical rainforest, offering the perfect setting to relax and experience nature at its purest.

🥾 Hiking

In designated areas, visitors can explore tropical forest trails and discover endemic birds, mammals, reptiles, and unique plant species.

🐋 Wildlife Watching

Depending on the season, you may spot:

• Dolphins
• Sea turtles
• Humpback whales (seasonal)
• Seabirds
• Howler monkeys and white-faced capuchins
• Iguanas

Every visit is unique thanks to the park’s extraordinary biodiversity.

What to Bring to Coiba

To make the most of your visit, we recommend bringing:

• Swimsuit
• Towel
• Reef-safe biodegradable sunscreen
• Hat or cap
• Sunglasses
• Water shoes or sandals
• Lightweight clothing
• A change of dry clothes
• Waterproof camera or phone case
• Dry bag for personal belongings
• Passport or ID
• Cash for park entrance fees or personal expenses, if applicable

Helpful Tips for Your Visit

• Book your tour in advance, especially during high season.
• Always follow your guide’s instructions.
• Do not feed or disturb wildlife.
• Do not remove coral, shells, or any natural elements from the park.
• Take all your trash with you and help preserve this extraordinary ecosystem.

Why Is Coiba So Special?

Coiba National Park is part of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Corridor, one of the world’s most important marine conservation regions. Thanks to its long isolation, it is home to numerous endemic species and some of the best-preserved coral reef systems in the region, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers, snorkelers, and scuba divers alike.

Stay Close to the Adventure

If you’re planning to visit Coiba, Nativo Boutique Hotel is the perfect place to stay. Located in Santa Catalina, our adults-only boutique hotel offers comfortable accommodations, an ocean-view infinity pool, an on-site restaurant, and convenient access to daily tours to Coiba National Park.