All photos this page: ©2007 Scott Doggett, Special to WhozHereNow.com

Nestled in rainforest along a pristine bay on Isla Bastimentos are six deluxe, air-conditioned bungalows, and a lodge with full bar, restaurant and common area with a 180-degree tree-top views of the Caribbean and surrounding jungle.

While it would be easy to pass time at Tranquilo Bay strolling the grounds ogling the sloths and monkeys that live in its trees, or simply reading a good book on a veranda ringed by beauty, the resort makes an awesome base of operations for fishermen and other outdoor enthusiasts.

That’s because its owners, two lifelong fishing fanatics from Texas and their intrepid wives, place fishing front and center of the various activities the resort has to offer.

When not dreaming of their wives, Jim and Jay dream of spring tarpon activity in bays and lagoons, fall tarpon and snook activity at river mouths, spring and fall offshore runs of tuna, wahoo, kingfish and snapper, and excursions to the remote waters ringing Isla Escudo de Veraguas.

You can read more about their fishing tours, as well as their fishing boats, at Tranquilo Bay’s website. Guided beach, diving, snorkeling, jungle hiking, kayaking, surfing, birding and “relaxation” excursions are also available.

The six cabañas feature a spacious tiled interior with a good-size bathroom, sitting area with handcrafted furniture, and French doors opening to a covered porch furnished with hammocks and Adirondack chairs.

Three of the cabañas have queen-size beds, and three have two double beds. Packages start at about $250 per person daily double occupancy depending on activities and length of stay; all meals and transportation to and from Bocas Town are included. A cabaña of one’s own at Tranquilo Bay costs an additional $604 for a 7-night stay, $414 for a 4-night stay, and $330 for a 3-nightstay.

Location

Tranquilo Bay, Isla Bastimentos

Bocas del Toro

Panama