Amongst the lush jungles, white sand beaches and subaquatic coral gardens of Panama’s Gulf of Chiriquí lie a string of private islands that have lain uninhabited for hundreds of years. Once known as Panama’s ‘Lost Coast’, this remote stretch of coastline was once the domain of pirates and smugglers, but today this spectacular tropical paradise is home to Islas Secas, a unique, ultra-luxurious eco-lodge.
Reached by a thrilling speedboat ride from the town of David, through crystal clear waters home to manta rays, whale sharks and migrating humpbacks, the lodge is the only structure built in the archipelago and will remain that way – the other 13 islands are to remain untouched as they have for thousands of years. Islas Secas prides itself on making every guest feel like they are on their own private island – or 14 private islands to be exact! Run entirely on solar energy, with a strong focus on sustainability and ecologically conscious living, the reserve is comprised of seven separate dwellings, an open-air beachfront restaurant, a Hemingway-inspired bar and library. Each of the casitas is located in a spectacular position on the fringes of the island, overlooking the ocean and the swaying palms. They range in size, from one to four bedrooms, and each is designed with the tropical climate in mind, with louvered slats and sliding doors that make the most of the ocean breezes. Stylish beach-chic furnishings, Wi-Fi, air conditioning and other mod cons bring the luxury touch to the Robinson Crusoe-esque casitas, with large bathrooms complete with double vanities and indoor and outdoor showers.
The open-sided, beachside Terraza restaurant with its cathedral ceiling and mesmerising views is the heart of the island, offering a relaxed shared space for dining. Modern, Panamanian-inspired dishes make the most of the abundant natural bounty, whether it’s the catch-of-the-day or tropical fruits and homegrown vegetables from the chef’s kitchen garden. Three delicious meals are served overlooking the ocean, unless the desire to explore and discover is too great, in which case the chef can prepare a delicious beach picnic or sunset barbeque feast. Just next door to Terraza is the bar, with its Hemingway-inspired interior and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a sundowner or a post-dinner aperitif.
Islas Secas’ unique location in the Gulf of Chiriquí makes it the perfect destination for those in search of adventure. The waters of the gulf and the nearby Coiba National Park teem with life, from tiny tropical fish to pods of migrating humpbacks, majestic whale sharks and playful dolphins. This marine playground can be explored in a multitude of ways, from paddle boarding and kayaking in the shallows to scuba diving and snorkelling in the rich waters of the marine park. Embark on exciting guided excursions and think of the fully-trained guide team and qualified naturalists as your ranger on a safari. With over 750 species of fish in the waters, Islas Secas is fast becoming known as a world class dive destination and 2 pods of humpback whale frequent the archipelago each year. In season, you can view them breaching from your casita, with your drink of choice in your hand!
Wakeboarding and surfing can be arranged by the expert team at the reserve, alongside sports fishing trips in search of marlin and tuna in the legendary waters of the Hannibal Bank and Islas Montuosa. PADI-qualified divers can enjoy included diving during their stay and explore the waters around the 14 islands. While, with 6 private yachts at guest’s disposal, marine adventures await at this paradise in Panama.
