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Best Things to Do in San Blas Islands for Couples

THE 10 BEST Couples' Activities & Things to Do in San Blas Islands

Best Things to Do in San Blas Islands for Couples

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Travelers' Choice Awards winners (including the "Best of the Best" title) are among the top 10% of listings on Tripadvisor, according to the reviews and opinions of travelers across the globe.
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  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

What travelers are saying

  • kelvi
    bay area, ca209 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We stayed here for 1 night in July 2024.

    - We got a private room and shared bath option.
    - The boat dropped us off around 10AM on day 1. Our the agency thru which we had booked the stay did not include snorkel , but we rented equipment from the island for 5$ - it is worth it - the sunken ship isnt too far off the coast and you can see parts even if you cannot swim.
    -Food: We are vegetarians - so food was rice (sometimes with coconut), a salad and some plantains. It was monotonous (all three meals) , but perfectly acceptable. A drink also comes along with each meal.
    - Accommodation : The room has beds , 2 fans and a small stool to keep your bag; Oh and a light. That's it. But it was clean . the sheets were clean , we had great ocean views from the room. I had a great night's sleep - Absolutely no issues.
    It also rained heavily in the evening , nothing got messy.
    - People : the locals in the island are friendly. They know to give you space and keep out of your way. But will look out for you too.
    -Island : it was crowded with the day tours , but once the crowd goes, it is amazing. Do you get bored? No way !
    We went on island tours on Day 2 but honestly , staying at the island on Day1 was awesome. Don't get me wrong , the day tours will let you hop islands and go with the crowd and get you a busy day - but the stay the previous day and chilling out was the highlight for me.

    Overall: I loved it . if we had time , we would have taken the 2N-3D option which would have been perfect. Cannot wait to go back.
    You cannot go wrong with any island you choose.
    Written July 7, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Peter Z
    12 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Pelicano island has beautiful and tranquil place, njce beaches, pretty little snorkeling around, gorgeuos sunsets to enjoy..
    Written April 6, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • BRDman7
    Vancouver, Canada347 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The San Blas Islands are amazing and Chichime Isle was a perfect place to stay for two nights. The people living here are very welcoming, beauty is all around and the meals they prepared were fresh and delicious. Cold beer, water and other drinks are available for a very reasonable price. From here you can go on excursions to other isles.
    Written February 14, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Dominic Markart
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    My girlfriend and I stayed with Carlos on his sailboat for 2 days and 2 nights.
    We were blown away by the beauty and uniqueness of San Blas and we were so happy to experience all this on a boat. On the one hand having the comfort staying on a beautiful yacht and on the other hand having the possibility to see couple of different magical islands was OUTSTANDING.
    The service of Carlos was excellent. He is a great cook and prepared for every lunch and dinner fresh fish, lobster, crab or other seafood available in the waters of San Blas. He is also very knowledgeable about San Blas and the Kunas and makes everything possible for you to have an unforgettable time. So visit Calors on his boat before San Blas will be flooded in the next 15-20 years. Thank you a million times.
    Written February 18, 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • mary fitz
    Palo Alto, CA20 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    My husband and I treasured our six precious days sailing on the Liberté around San Blas, booked through Chris at Catamaran Adventures, an exceptionally competent trip facilitator. Looking for a reset after a very difficult year, we wanted only to unwind, reconnect with each other and with nature, and clear our minds. Not sure we could’ve found a more perfect travel experience to meet those exact intentions. The archipelago’s sublime beauty, its peace and quiet and solitude, clear waters, star-filled skies, colorful reefs, empty white-sand beaches, and fascinating, friendly inhabitants provided a rich and meaningful experience, one for the ages. Under Cpt Lucio’s open-hearted leadership, the Liberté crew was excellent and graciously met our every desire. Each day we'd awake, drink coffee, eat a delicious breakfast, snorkel, paddle board around tiny islands, eat another delicious meal, do some more exploring of some kind (hiking, sailing, walking on beaches, swimming), read, play cards, talk–and then, as the sun lowered on the horizon, we’d have a couple of drinks, eat yet another (!!) delicious meal, and hang out under the stars. Rinse, repeat.
    Written December 5, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Anton C
    Singapore, Singapore4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Incredible experience! Paradises island with awesome views m. The company organized everything properly and with a great cost! Totally recommended
    Written June 30, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • wayne r
    4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had an incredible 3 days with captain Elena and her incredible cook/hostess Anzhelica! Fresh seafood is amazing, the boat is stocked with water toys, snorkeling equipment and 2 paddleboards. The water is crystal clear around the island reefs. Elena knows all of the good spots and made sure that we had a fantastic time.
    Written October 28, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • nn n
    10 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We spent three nights on the Lagoon 55 „Spartivento“ of Polo and Sophie, but we wish it would have been forever.
    The experience was absolutely wonderful and outstanding in every respect. We had a few lightning heavy nights but were in the best hands possible with likely the most experienced captain in San Blas, Polo. Particularly outstanding was the food on the boat. Sophie is a chef, and what she cooks is worthy of Michelin star restaurant. The boat is not new, but Polo is constantly improving it, and there are features, such as the aft deck, that are absolutely great.
    I could not be more thankful for the experience. Polo and Sophie make you feel home, and you get the best possible service.

    The Organisation by Anemoi Sailing was excellent, too. Very fast, reliable, flawless. You are always somewhat suspicious to transfer money to a bank account somewhere, but Anemoi is absolutely trustworthy.

    All in all, wonderful in every respect.
    Karl
    Written August 22, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • opensourcesoluti2023
    Mandeville, Jamaica1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Very professional and courteous staff. Flexible team especially when you have a large group who wanted to do different stuff
    Written August 2, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Vi n
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    One week in Panama, including 5 days in the San Blas islands. Here's my unfiltered review: it's a bit of an adventure, but absolutely worth it.

    I chose to go during the off-season, partly because it was cheaper, and also because it coincided with my son's school holidays. A trip just for the two of us.

    We arrived the day before in Panama City and booked a room at "Mamallena". It's a great option for budget travelers: clean and just a 10-minute walk from the waterfront,it was nice but it's pretty basic. If you have a bit more to spend, I’d recommend staying in the old town – it has way more charm.

    For the transfer to San Blas, we followed the advice of our booker and chose Lam Tour. The night before, I got a WhatsApp message confirming the taxi would arrive at 5:15 AM. Right on the dot, a lifted 4x4 pulled up. It was comfortable, and there were six of us in the car. The ride took about 4 hours, with non-stop rain, making me second-guess whether summer was the best choice for a vacation... The roads were in good condition but full of twists and turns, so watch out for motion sickness! If you can, try to grab a front seat. After that, we hopped on a "lancha" for a 1.5-hour boat ride. As we got closer, the sky started to clear, as if the clouds were clinging to the mainland.

    We finally arrived at the catamaran El Gitano del Mar, which we had booked directly through catamaransanblas.com because they are the owner . Write better:
    We got around 15% better deal by booking through their site instead of using boat platforms

    The boat looked just like the photos, and we were welcomed with fresh fruit and juice. As soon as we dropped our bags, the captain took us to a tiny, absolutely stunning island – straight out of a postcard. The perfect place to feel like a modern-day Robinson Crusoe.

    Every day, we explored new islands. It was the perfect opportunity to try paddleboarding (way harder than it looks!). The islands are incredibly beautiful – small patches of white sand with palm trees and huts made of palm leaves. During the off-season, we had the islands to ourselves, which was an amazing feeling. It’s surreal to think that we were probably among the happiest people in the world at that moment, enjoying such peace and beauty. Real privilege.

    The weather was mostly cloudy during our 5 days, with a few scattered showers, but honestly, that was a relief – the sun is strong, even through the clouds. The crew was wonderful: warm and friendly, but also discreet, creating a relaxed atmosphere. We enjoyed giant crabs, lobsters, fresh fruit – all natural and delicious. It was no air conditioning, but during the day it’s not at all an issue since we were mostly outside, taking a dip in the water every couple of hours. However, at night the cabin did get pretty warm. Thankfully, they provided a big portable fan that you can clip anywhere in the cabin, and it made all the difference. Without it, sleeping would have been difficult, but with it, the comfort level was completely transformed.
    Honestly, if I could have, I would have stayed two extra days. The calm and beauty of the place are just irresistible.
    My son was really happy and even got to steer the boat, and the crew took the time to teach him paddleboarding, chess, and swam with him from island to island (with a float). He came back with a head full of memories, and for that alone, the trip was priceless.
    Written August 21, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Roger C
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had a great time! The captain and the crew are fantastic. The Gina people are very friendly. The food was delicious and fresh. We had lobsters, fish and crab straight out from the water by the fishermen. The snorkeling was Amazing. It was truly a fantastic experience. This place is PARADISE! I will definitely be coming back as soon as possible. Thank you JP & Helena!
    Written August 21, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • David W
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We had a fantastic family trip on Haya: Mum,Dad, 15 & 13-yr olds. The crew (Louis & Andreas) could not have been more helpful. Excellent sailors, amazing meals for breakfast, lunch & dinner with fish, octopus, cambombia & lobster bought that day! Andreas’ music was also great! Snorkelling & SUP kit all excellent. San Blas really is paradise with beautiful seas, islands, beaches; and very friendly people.
    The only downside were the thunder & lighting storms: but it was rainy season. They were spectacular but a bit scary for those not used to it!
    We did a 3 night charter, would love to have had longer. A trip we will remember for ever!
    Written August 4, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Lynda F
    5 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    We recently returned from 3 days sailing around the San Blas islands in Panama, and it was off the charts amazing (July 2023).

    We booked with Native Tours / San Blas Sailing, and hired the Ti Kay catamaran

    Our captain was Sebastian and Sayra was his first mate, who did all the cooking and looking after the boat.

    I honestly cannot speak more highly for everyone. When I booked I was a little nervous sending money into Panama without really knowing much about the tour company. I did as much research as I could, but ultimately had to pay the money and hope.....they delivered on everything they promised. My contact at SanBlasSailing was extremely responsive and they arranged everything for our trip to the San Blas, including the transfers.

    The boat Ti-kay was perfect. I was travelling with my husband and 2 kids (8 and 10), and the boat was more than big enough for us. There was a really comfortable outdoor eating area and the netting at the front of the boat was pure bliss.

    I cannot find anything to complain about with the trip.

    Sebastian and Sayra (with their dog Bela) are not the normal crew for the boat, and they were amazing. Sebastian knows the San Blas islands so well, and was able to show us the best places to snorkel and explore. He was a very accomplished captain. He also has a story for every occasion and is fantastic company.

    Sayra is a phenomenal chef, we had octopus, and lobster, fresh fish daily. It was amazing. My one advice to travelers is the food is high quality, which I was not expecting on a sailboat, I was expecting rice and beans! My 8 year old daughter (who likes plain food) did struggle a little, until Sayra produced plain pasta and grilled fish and then she was happy. So expect fine dining and advise of any food preferences before you go. My fault for not doing that!

    Sebastian and Sayra both made for a very enjoyable trip around the San Blas Islands. They are incredibly respectful of the local Kuna people, and treat the locals like family. It was really great to see, and lovely to meet so many people on the islands.

    The Kuna people do rely on tourist money, so be prepared to buy a few things to help support the local community.

    As for the Islands themselves. Imagine an untouched Caribbean paradise, and that is the San Blas.....utterly breathtaking. Cant wait to be back.

    Could not recommend the tour company, boat and crew more highly.
    Written August 17, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Michael L
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Captain Fred and his crew were amazing. His knowledge of the area and relationship with the Guna people made our trip truly special. An incredible experience filled with memories that will last a lifetime!
    Written November 11, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Steven M
    Seattle, WA4 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The boat was spacious and very comfortable, perfect for relaxing while exploring paradise. The crew is exceptional: always attentive, friendly, and full of contagious energy. On top of that, they are incredible cooks, turning every meal into a unique experience. Their knowledge of the region and local culture is fascinating, as they share insights about the traditions, art, and lives of the native inhabitants. As experts in the area, they take you to the best islands for snorkeling and uncover hidden spots where you can fully enjoy tranquility and natural beauty.
    Written November 26, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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