Bastimentos Island National Marine Park, Marine park in Bocas del Toro archipelago, Panama.
Bastimentos Island National Marine Park is a protected marine area in the Bocas del Toro archipelago that encompasses water zones and islands with varied terrain. The waters contain extensive coral reefs, mangrove forests, and different habitats that together form a complex ecosystem.
The protected area was established in 1988 to preserve the coral reefs and fish stocks in this region. This creation reflected a growing recognition across Central America that the sea required active protection to sustain itself for future generations.
The park holds significance for local fishing communities who have depended on these waters for generations and continue to navigate the balance between resource use and marine protection. Visitors encounter people whose connection to the sea shapes how the park is managed and experienced daily.
The park is best reached by boat from the town of Bocas del Toro, and local guides are available on-site to assist with snorkeling and diving. The best time for swimming is during the drier months when water clarity improves and conditions feel more comfortable.
The park's beaches, especially Playa Larga, serve as one of the region's most important nesting sites for four sea turtle species. These rare turtles return to the same beach over many years, making nesting season a special occurrence for nature observers fortunate enough to witness it.
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