Payments made by partners impact the order of prices displayed. Room types may vary.
The listings of booking offers for each property take into account the compensation paid to us by our partners. Prices shown may be for varying room types. Prices displayed are the lowest available, corresponding to the least expensive room type available, as provided from our partners as of the time of the user’s search.
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
We understand how it feels when your search for a luxury island vacation turns up uninspiring. You want the best resort in Panama. A truly untouched tropical island experience. An undiscovered, faraway place that will energize you, refresh you, and send you back home anew. Well, Traveler. You found us. This is the heart of Isla Palenque. Our 400-acre, private, tropical island resort in the Gulf of Chiriqui, Panama in Central America. Rich in primary forest, 7 secluded beaches and a sacred history of archaeological significance. Isla Palenque resort is right out of a page of your favorite, fantasy island novel.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Isla Palenque is an extraordinary place. Our experience there exceeded all expectations. I knew it was going to be special when we arrived and stepped onto the soft sand around the lodge, and the concierge told us "just relax, hang out, have a drink, whenever you're ready let me know and I'll show you to your casita." And then our child took off running towards the water, which was quite far away because the tide was out and the beach is gently sloped, and I chased him around while the bartenders put together our drinks. Great way to start a vacation.
The beach is something else - long and remarkably wide when the tide is out. The sand is fine, little crabs are running this way and that, and the water is warm. The waves were just the right size for our seven year old to enjoy playing in.
Our beachfront casita was luxuriously appointed - the air conditioning honestly was pleasant to have, if nothing else than to just dry out a bit. The bathroom outside was great, and the outdoor shower was fun. The casita's deck was nice too - though honestly, with the beach right there, and the lodge pool nearby, we didn't end up spending much time at all on it. The foot washing station by the deck was a nice touch - the fine sand really sticks to you and would've gotten everywhere inside.
The food was out of this world - the effort and craft put into each dish was manifest. The variety of styles of food, the availability of plant forward and meat forward dishes, the intricacies of the desserts, etc. - it was quite amazing. And the staff were also very accommodating for our little one's special requests - diced pineapple with basically every meal. The staff is top notch - clearly trained to international standards, and just plain kind and happy as well.
The pool at the lodge was great fun for us as an alternative to the ocean. We saw howler monkeys come by the lodge a few times, as well as a massive iguana. We went on a whale watching outing which was a great success (aside from a bit of seasickness for a couple of us).
What I remember about Isla Palenque is the feeling of open, relaxing, and indulgent days - the joy of not needing to wear footwear - just spending the days walking along the beach back and forth from the casita to the lodge for exquisite meals, then to the ocean to play, back to the casita to chill and read, and back for more food and beach fun, and so on. The impression that stays with me is how amazing it is that Isla Palenque has brought that level of luxury - food, accommodation, staff - to such a remote and unique place on this planet. I highly recommend it.
Read more
Date of stay: August 2024
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Nicky Diaz, Agency / Consultant at Isla Palenque Resort
Responded 9 Jan 2025
Thank you for your heartfelt review! We’re thrilled that your experience at Isla Palenque exceeded expectations, from the stunning beach and luxurious casita to the exquisite meals and top-notch service. It’s wonderful to hear your family enjoyed the ocean, lodge pool, wildlife encounters, and the joy of barefoot days filled with relaxation and indulgence. We’re honored to have been part of such special memories and hope to welcome you back to our slice of paradise soon!
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We just returned from a delightful four-day stay at this wonderful resort, and the experience was nothing short of incredible. All the glowing reviews are absolutely accurate. The staff, food, activities, and location make this place worth every moment of the trip. A special shout-out to Derek, Jens, Carlos, Paco, Obajoralis (apologies if the spelling is incorrect), Yarelee, Benny, and everyone else who went above and beyond to ensure we had a fantastic time.
We enjoyed the night walk, a premium rum tasting led by the knowledgeable Carlos, the Secrets of the Island tour, a fun mixology class, and evening wine and cheese. However, simply lounging in the cabanas or gazing at the ocean during meals was an experience in itself. The casitas were charming, and the housekeeping was nothing short of miraculous – we never once saw them, yet the casita remained spotless throughout our stay.
One highlight was when an entire family of howler monkeys joined us during lunch to feast on the almond tree. It added a unique touch to our dining experience.
I wished we could have extended our stay to enjoy more of the activities. There's just so much to do!
Overall, our time at this resort was unforgettable, and we can't wait to return.
Read more
Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Guest Service, Revenue Management at Isla Palenque Resort
Responded 4 Dec 2023
Thanks for your visit, Jason. Yes, four days is not enough. At least 5. But most guests say a week. Thanks for all the positive comments and the nice mention of so many team members. We will take great care of the Howler Family and of course the rest of the island. Please come back soon or maybe visit another Cayuga Collection Hotel in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, or Panama soon.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed 5 nights at Isla Palanque. There were some management bumps he first couple of days but they were resolved quickly by the excellent staff. The casitas are so comfortable and kept so clean by the housekeeping staff. The meals at the beachfront restaurant were excellent and the wait staff for the most part were excellent. The nature hikes and kayaking, paddleboarding were fun and the beach chairs at your capita were always there and so comfortable. Beach towels provided lounge swing on your porch is a great place for an afternoon siesta in the shade. Your private outdoor washroom area with double sinks and toilet room and bath tub and 2 showers were always clean and stocked with clean towels. The foot shower on the front porch is a nice touch to control the sand from getting into the cassitta. The early morning Yoga classes with Morgan were an excellent start to the day. Xavier and Emily went out of their way to create a dance class for the guests who wanted some action before dinner. Very enjoyable experience.
Read more
Date of stay: January 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Guest Service, Revenue Management at Isla Palenque Resort
Responded 30 Jan 2023
Thank you for your review. We are glad that we were able to work out the bumps to your satisfaction. Thanks for the detailed description of the experience. We are sure that it will be very helpful for guests that are considering visiting us in the next months. Please come back soon. We will share your praise with Xavier and Emily. Saludos.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
It’s hard to review this place. There are moments you think you are on the set of Survivor, the beach is empty- no chairs, no umbrellas, just a pristine Panamanian beach. There are thatched beach huts off to the side that Jeff Probst’s crew could have built.....but the moment you sit down a server appears (genie in a bottle moment) asking you what would like or need. He quietly retreats and returns with a cool towel and an impressive Pina Colada. There are very few people around and the service is exceptionally good. You really feel like you are alone on this island. The beach casitas are not visible from the beach and are set back just enough to keep the Robinson Crusoe vibe going. You follow a slight opening in the foliage to your casita and amazingly enough it is air conditioned and quite luxurious. The king side bed has high thread count sheets and is very comfortable. There are two armoires in the room, large enough for all your clothing. A small couch completes the room with a mini bar that is stocked daily. However, it’s the bathroom that is so amazing. It’s all outside. It was really fun and so exotic and jungle-ish without losing function and privacy. How great is it that while you are brushing your teeth you have the view of a gorgeous banana palm and the buzz of the jungle around you? Shower is completely open and there is a tub set out in the sand for those that want to still take a bath. However, mostly it is the service here that makes this resort stand out. They are well trained and eager to bring you whatever you wish for. The food was excellent and my husband and I especially enjoyed the fresh ceviche every day. I ate more coconut flan than one person should in a lifetime, and I even have a crush on Elias who served us almost every day. Patricia is a capable manager and inquired every day about what events we wished to participate in. Monkey hike? Snorkel tour? Secluded beaches? Cooking class? There was zero pressure to participate but when we did we had a great time. Francis is personable and knowledgeable about the island was fun to be with. This is really a special place and I feel fortunate to have spent our holiday here.
Read more
Date of stay: April 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
An unforgettable experience! From the exceptional hospitality to the tranquility of the island itself, this trip was everything we could have asked for and more. Everyone on the island was so welcoming and friendly that by the time we left we felt like we had made friends like family. We had a wonderful time exploring the island with the guides as well as on our own while learning about the unique history this peaceful island has to offer. If you're looking to just relax for the day or if you're up for an adventure, this eco resort offers it all from private snorkeling excursions with a picnic on a secluded little beach in the middle of nowhere to reading on a hammock right outside your casita just steps to the beach. The food was amazing since everything is freshly caught that day by local fisherman and/or grown there on the island. Most of the time my husband and I were the only ones around either walking on the beach or resting by the pool so we really felt like we had our own private island. The monkeys are so fun to watch as they travel in groups with the babies tagging along. The casita was the perfect size, well stocked with daily water and snacks and we especially loved the outdoor bathroom area. We felt safe and well taken care of our entire stay. The only con was that I packed way too much so next time I'll be leaving my blowdryer and any shoes except my hiking shoes and flip flops behind! We are already looking forward to our next visit and this time we plan on bringing our 3 children along so we can all share in this wonderful experience!
Read more
Date of stay: June 2021
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:All casitas are secluded. Request closest or farthest in relation to the restaurant depending how...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our family recently returned from a 4 night stay and we highly recommend it if you want a bespoke experience away from crowds. There were times when we felt as if we were the only guests on the island, not to mention the two private beaches we enjoyed. The casitas, just steps from the beach, were comfortable, cool, and immaculately kept. We loved seeing and hearing the monkeys, and all the crabs on the beach during our nightly walks.
The people who work here are truly amazing. They are not only great at what they do, but they are so kind. The service made this trip one we will never forget.
Benny and Daniela at the concierge desk were incredibly accommodating about suggesting and planning activities perfect for us. Our family did the Isla Secas tour (worth it!), kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, hiking and a cooking class. We enjoyed multiple excursions with Manuel who was incredibly knowledgeable and made each one fun for our teens and us.
The restaurant staff including Guillermo, Carlos and Benny were the best! They were the first to greet us in the morning with coffees, and the last ones we saw each night after leisurely dinners. Meals were beautifully prepared and delicious. We appreciated the changing menu including Panamanian dishes as well as more familiar food -even our pickiest eater was happy. The kids enjoyed the delicious ice cream every night. Benny is a true mixologist and we had the most delicious, natural, cocktails made with homemade shrubs and infused liquors. His take on a Mai Tai became the favorite cocktail of the trip. He was always so nice about making unique mocktails for the kids as well.
Thank you to everyone at Isla Palenque for an unforgettable trip!
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Guest Service, Revenue Management at Isla Palenque Resort
Responded 1 Apr 2024
Thank you for choosing Isla Palenque for your family vacation. And thanks for mentioning so many of us in your review. This means a lot. Please come back soon or also take a look at our sister hotels of the Cayuga Collection in Costa Rica and Nicaragua.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This is a truly wonderful escape. Isla Palenque has excellent low key service in an amazing environment with wonderful rooms. We especially loved kayaking around the island with Francis, the cocktails by Carlos, and the truly friendly meal service from both Jorge and Carlos.
All you need to bring is shorts, bathing suits, shoes optional, and bug spray - we got bites even with spray on (it’s a real tropical island after all!).
Read more
Date of stay: February 2024Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:February is very hot! Bring bug spray.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Guest Service, Revenue Management at Isla Palenque Resort
Responded 25 Feb 2024
Thanks for your review and the great comments on the service, your meals, and the adventures with our on-site guides. It is a good idea to bring bug spray, especially when going on tours into the forest on the island. But many of our guests also never bother to use it and are fine. Shoes are optional for sure. Please come back soon.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
What a truly amazing place and staff. You really do feel like you shipwrecked on a deserted island that just happens to have beautiful casitas with outdoor showers, air conditioning, and a staff of people eager to make the best possible experience. Travel was flawless both in and out and you feel the seclusion with the flights and van rides and boat ride. Staff all speak English and Spanish. Food is amazing. Setting is amazing. Laid back holiday. Only 8 casitas (and one large villa) at this point so it never feels like there are too many people around. 10/10 would return. Jens and Benny were fantastic concierge staff. The restaurant/bar staff were fantastic Derek,Michael, Guillermo, Carlos, and Obdiale. Paco and Francis were fantastic and a lot of fun. They taught us a lot about the island and panama.
Read more
Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Will need bug spray. Mosquitos not horrible but present.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Guest Service, Revenue Management at Isla Palenque Resort
Responded 1 Nov 2023
A special thank you for remembering all the names of our staff in this review. This means a lot to us. And of course that you enjoyed your stay so much. Shipwrecked but with all the creature comforts. It really is the island experience that we all dream about. Please come back soon. Greetings from sunny Isla Palenque.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
This trip to Palenque was supposed to be an anniversary gift in 2020, but turn out to be a family trip with our 3 month old child. It was perfect, the trip with the baby was safe all along, the boat ride, the room and service. The staff was very accommodating with us and our schedules with the baby (for meals), we felt safe as for all the higiene protocols they follow. The casitas are very comfortable, and homey, you don’t want to leave except for the few steps to go to the beach. Overall, a great place to be and enjoy a different and luxurious isolation
Read more
Date of stay: April 2021Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
At one point or another, who hasn't dreamt of a tropical private island getaway ? While many think of turquoise waters and white sands, I must say the Gulf of Chiriqui did not disappoint. Clear waters of perfect temperature with islands rising from their calm surface. Very well designed, the casitas and open air restaurant structure are close, but hidden from view as you stroll "your" luxurious length of beach. (Honestly, we rarely saw other guests except at meal times and one evening we opted for room service.) The casitas are comfortable and the outdoor living areas are outstanding. We particularly loved the swinging 2 person day bed from which we watched monkeys in the trees less than 15 ft. away. You will also enjoy a lovely ocean view from the bed and terrace. The staff and food are all top notch and all will happily go "the extra mile" to accommodate your needs. We choose to have a more private experience and the staff were perceptive and seemed to only magically appear when needed. But, there are many activities and outings offered so that even the more active will be sated. In closing, I will add that the *most* impressive part of an exemplary holiday is that Isla Palenque is truly a brilliant example of self-sustaining tourism. I support and applaud them for their efforts and hope to see more of this thoughtful approach to tourism in the immediate future.
Read more
Date of stay: March 2022
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from CayugaCollection, Manager at Isla Palenque Resort
Responded 1 Apr 2022
What a wonderful review. Thanks for describing your Isla Palenque Tropical Island Getaway experience. We are happy that you had a great relaxing vacation and that you enjoyed the rooms, the service and the food. But we also want to thank you for pointing out our efforts in sustainability. This is very important to us. Please come back soon.
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I do not know anything about Villa Estate. Rooms are not connected, each casita is a stand alone one and the path takes one to the beach or a back path. Unless your children are very young, I seen no issue as you are minutes away. The place is wonderful from the service to the beach. We are planning our return.
I have only traveled to Panama in early to mid September. Last year we had to rearrange our schedules to reach our second destination due to the hotel closing because of the rainy season. You can expect daily showers but nothing crazy. We did have some rain storms at night as well. Nothing that blew the day. I think you should expect rain and just plan for it. Isla Palenque will schedule all your activities when you arrive so I would book everything you want to do and if it rains out you can try to reschedule what you miss. Diving is hit or miss with the weather. Low viz is possible. Excellent time to see the momma whales with their calfs. Hope this helps. Also, if you plan to fly into Panama City and reach David in one day understand that the domestic flights to David are at the domestic terminal. You must now take a bus from the international terminal to domestic terminal then walk to your gate. A lot of people missed there flights to David because they don't know how to get to the domestic terminals.
There are more places to choose from in the Boca Chica area.
PRICE RANGE
€837 - €1,589 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
PanamaChiriqui ProvinceBoca Chica
NUMBER OF ROOMS
9
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
