Not far from the Costa Rica border, the western Panama Bocas del Toro region is one of the country's top vacation destinations. A burgeoning eco-tourist's dream, Bocas del Toro is also boasts some of the best Panama beaches. Isla ColÓn is the most developed of the islands found in this archipelago, and it is where you will find the regional capital of Bocas Town, as well as a decent list of Bocas del Toro hotels. Some visitors like to stay at one the Bocas del Toro accommodations that are found on other islands, so it depends on your budget and interests. There's also the Bocas del Toro vacation rentals, which generally are a good bet for added space and flexibility. The following suggestions for Bocas del Toro accommodations should help you narrow down your lodging options in this slice of paradise.

Bocas Inn

Offering great 3-day packages that include accommodations and tours, the Bocas Inn is a great choice for Bocas del Toro hotels on Isla ColÓn. Conveniently located and well-priced, Main Street is an easy walk away, and though the amenities are low here, the rooms are spacious, clean and comfortable, featuring great bathrooms. Breakfast is included in the rates, and the hotel restaurant serves some pretty good dishes. The waterfront hangout deck has hammocks that provide ideal relaxation, and you don't have to book a package deal to enjoy the many great tour options. If you want to go snorkeling, you can hop on a boat at the hotel's dock to be whisked away to your destination. All units are air-conditioned, and if you spring a little extra, you can get one of the two ocean view rooms that have their own patio hammocks.

Tropical Suites

Though not exactly one of the Bocas del Toro vacation rentals, the Tropical Suites hotel in Bocas Town offers nice studio-style units that provide kitchenettes. The rates here are a bit high, and it's worth spending extra for a room with sea views and a private terrace. Stocked and outfitted with cooking utensils, the kitchenettes provide convenience for those looking to cook or entertain on the side. Cable TV, whirlpool tubs, free internet access, a hair dryer and air-conditioning are among the amenities you can expect here, and when it comes to comfortable Bocas del Toro accommodations, the Tropical Suites is among your best bets. The owners here are noted for going the extra mile to ensure a good stay, and they are happy to give you restaurant and tour recommendations. For a bit of adventure, you can grab a kayak or jet ski and go out exploring. After a fun day in Bocas, the Tropical Suites bar is a wonderful place to enjoy a cocktail before heading out for dinner or nightlife. If you are staying here for a week or more, you should benefit from a discount on your overall rates.

Tranquilo Bay Resort

The archipelago's second largest island, Isla Bastimentos, is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy some of the best Panama scuba diving. One of the more luxurious Bocas del Toro hotels is also found here. The Tranquilo Bay resort is small and elegant, and you will find the amenities to be among the best found on any of the islands here. Nestled in a rainforest and overlooking the stunning Caribbean Sea, this is an eco-resort of good repute, where you can surely rejuvenate your inner soul. 6 cabins are all you'll have to choose from here, so you can bet the atmosphere is both intimate and romantic. The small staff is partly made up of the owners, who are known to accompany guests on tours and excursions, which provides added piece of mind. The cabins here are very well decorated, not to mention extremely comfortable. The beds are made of local hardwood, and amenities include a coffee maker, A/C, a nice snack basket, a hair dryer, a covered porch with hammocks, and sparkling bathrooms. You can either choose to book a cabin with an ocean view, or one with a jungle view. The main lodge here is great, featuring a nice restaurant, a bar and plenty of entertainment options. Head to the second story for amazing sea and jungle views. Rates here are pretty steep, but it helps that your meals, drinks and watersports equipment are included. WiFi internet and a hotel library help to make this one of the more fool-proof choices for Bocas del Toro hotels.

Found in a Bocas Town suburb, the Bocas Las Olas is just one choice among the Bocas del Toro vacation rentals. There are three cottages you can choose from here, all of which straddle the water. Maid service helps to keep your cottage clean, and you can enjoy cable TV when you have some down time. Perhaps a kayak adventure or a bike ride will be in order, and your cottage will have the necessary equipment. Both Bocas Town center and the area beaches are easy to reach, and the rates here are pretty agreeable. You might have to book a limited amount of nights, so you might look into other Bocas del Toro vacation rentals if this is not a good fit. You will pretty much have a home away from home should you choose to stay at one of the Bocas Las Olas cottages, as each provide exceptional comfort. Queen-size beds with quality mattresses, private bathrooms, a telephone for local calls, and a fully-equipped kitchen are some of the amenities to expect.