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Where is the Best Snorkeling in San Blas?

Instafamous Dog Island along with most of the islands in the Lemon Cays of San Blas are ok to snorkel if you don’t have much time. However, in order to experience the absolute best snorkel in San Blas you must venture out to the Dutch and Coco Bandero Cays.


The archipelago of the San Blas islands, also referred to as Guna Yala, and more specifically, the 20 miles that stretch from El Porvenir to Corazon de Jesus and constitute the last unspoiled and best Caribbean sailing charter destination is literally dotted with hundreds of islands of coral origin. All of these islands can be reached while on a catamaran charter in the San Blas islands.


Some of the islands closest to land are densely populated by the Guna indigenous, other islands are merely a patch of white sand with a coconut tree or two and with no possibilities for inhabiting them. Islands with higher density are the ones closest to shore mainly because they are the easiest to reach and since pre-colonial times have established trade with mainland.

One of the inhabited islands in the San Blas archipelago.
Island densely populated and close to mainland

The Islands out in the Cays of San Blas were for years out of the way and too wild to even be considered as a place to establish a community.


Small inhabited island out in the cays of San Blas, Panama. You can visit them with a catamaran charter
Small inhabited island out in the Cays of San Blas.

Islands near the shore and the ones with easy reach by road transfers are basically close to the river mouths that carry the sediment which in turn becomes the nutrient for the vibrant sea life all along the archipelago. This same sediment from rivers can cloud snorkeling spots near the mainland, potentially ruining the experience. However, the best snorkeling in San Blas can be found out in the Cays, where crystal-clear turquoise waters prevail year-round. These remote locations offer pristine conditions even during the rainy season.

Vibrant marine life out on the cays of San Blas, Panama.
Healthy reefs and a vibrant marine life out in the cays of San Blas

Top snorkeling spots in San Blas:

BBQ island in the Dutch Cays, San Blas, Panama
BBQ island in the Dutch Cays
Coco Bandero Cays in San Blas islands, Panama
Coco Bandero Cays
Cambombia, San Blas, Panama
Cambombia
Green island, San Blas, Panama
Green Island

Altogether, for the ultimate snorkeling adventure in San Blas, venture to the remote Cays where clear turquoise waters await. These pristine spots offer great visibility and vibrant marine life, ensuring an unforgettable underwater experience. Embrace the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of San Blas and immerse yourself in its stunning marine ecosystem.


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