Islas Secas
Islas Secas · Panama
Reviews
Character and identity
Twenty miles off Panama's Pacific coast, Islas Secas is a private archipelago turned all-inclusive eco-retreat, sleeping just 32 guests across seven Tom Scheerer-designed casitas in one, two and four-bedroom configurations. Thirteen of the fourteen islands remain undeveloped, and the entire operation runs on solar power. Architecture is low-key coastal: breezy pavilions, canopy beds in crisp white linen, private terraces, indoor-outdoor showers, ocean views in every direction. Terrazza handles the cooking with fish, vegetables and tropical fruit, and a Hemingway-inspired bar pours local rums. Service comes from passionate environmentalists who double as expert guides.
Who's it for
Best for:
Couples and low-key families who want genuine remoteness with full creature comforts. The right guest is up for fishing the Gulf of Chiriqui, snorkeling Coiba National Park, kayaking and playing castaway on uninhabited islets by day, then unplugging completely by night. Conservation-minded travellers who like their adventure with a chilled Pellegrino in hand.
Should look elsewhere:
Anyone who needs nightlife, shopping, multiple restaurants, a spa-focused itinerary or in-room TVs. The journey is significant, and the deliberately small scale means the experience lives or dies on whether you embrace the unplugged, boat-based rhythm.
Bottom line
The draw here is the rare alignment of true privacy, real wilderness and polished all-inclusive service on an archipelago that will stay undeveloped in perpetuity. Spend the money if you want adventure delivered with discretion rather than spectacle. Book a casita with a private pool, build in at least one full fishing day and one deserted-island picnic, and travel during the dry season for calmer water.
Location
What this place offers
- Wi-Fi
- Restaurant
- Breakfast
- Snorkeling
- Scuba
- Watercraft rental
- Full service laundry
- Wake up calls
- Housekeeping
- Turndown service
