Red Frog Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Bocas del Toro, and getting there is part of the fun. This is a water taxi service rather than a guided tour, which means you choose your own departure and return times and spend the day at the beach entirely at your own pace.

Where you’re going

Red Frog Beach sits on Isla Bastimentos, within Bastimentos Island National Marine Park. It takes its name from the tiny red strawberry poison-dart frog (Oophaga pumilio) that lives in the surrounding rainforest — small and increasingly shy, so consider it a lucky sighting rather than a guarantee. The beach itself is a wide stretch of pale sand backed by jungle and palms, popular with surfers and sunbathers alike.

How it works

Our captain takes you across from our dock to the calm side of the island, where you’ll follow a short jungle trail across to the beach. There’s a small access fee (around $5 per person) collected at the trailhead, which helps maintain the path. Because the beach faces open water, currents and surf can be strong — it’s a beautiful place to swim, but do so with care and keep an eye on children.

Good to know

• Price: $10 per person each way, plus $5 per person to cross the island trail to the beach.
• Includes: pick-up and drop-off at Saigon Bay’s dock.
• Timing: flexible — we recommend heading over before 11:00 AM to make the most of the day.
• Bring: cash for the trail fee, water shoes, sun protection and water.

Because it’s a private water-taxi arrangement, it’s best to let us know the evening before so we can organise your ride. You pay in cash on the day — no prepayment needed. The boats and captains we work with have the highest reputation in Bocas del Toro, and almost all of our guests use them and come back delighted.