Taboga Day Pass

Taboga Island, often referred to as the Island of the Flowers, is located just 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Panama City. The Taboga Day Pass provides an opportunity to explore this picturesque island, accessible via a fast ferry from the Amador Causeway that takes about 30 minutes. The ferry ride offers remarkable views of the city skyline, the Bridge of the Americas, and vessels waiting to enter the Panama Canal.

Discovered in the 16th century by Spanish explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa, Taboga was originally named Isla de San Pedro, after the town founded by Spanish priest Hernando de Luque in 1524. He established a church of the same name, noted to be the second oldest church in the Americas. From this island, notable figures such as Francisco Pizarro and Diego de Almagro embarked on their conquest of the Inca Empire. The island is also known as the birthplace of Rosa de Lima, recognized as the first saint of the Americas.

Throughout history, Taboga Island attracted individuals in search of gold and pearls, including pirates like Henry Morgan, who visited after plundering Panama City (now known as Panama Viejo). The island served as a port for Panama City and a rest stop for those headed to California during the Gold Rush. Notably, painter Paul Gauguin resided on the island in 1887 while working on the Panama Canal, and it became a favored vacation spot for Americans during and after its construction. It was later used for military purposes.

Today, Taboga Island is a popular tourist destination. The Taboga Day Pass includes a guided walking tour that highlights the significant historical sites. Visitors can swim at the beaches, with the two main ones being Playa Honda to the left and Playa Restringa to the right. Playa Restringa offers impressive views of Panama City’s skyscrapers and connects to a small island called El Morro at low tide. Playa Honda features superior sand and better facilities.

Booking the Taboga Day Pass on a weekday is recommended since there are less people. Going on weekends may mean crowded beaches since it is a popular local spot, especially on holidays. An overnight stay is also an option, with activities such as hiking, fishing trips, and seasonal whale watching available. Please contact us if you would like to stay at a hotel on Taboga, so that we can arrange this option for you.

There are two options with lunch for the Taboga Day Pass:

Casa Taboga Restaurant specializes in seafood, offering menu items like fried fish, shrimp or octopus in garlic sauce, and paella, alongside options for chicken, salads, burgers, and pasta. A vegan menu is also available for vegetarian diners, and the seating area includes outdoor options with fans and ocean views.

Dolce Vita Restaurant, situated within the Villa Caprichosa hotel at the highest point of the property, provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This gourmet establishment features Italian Mediterranean cuisine infused with tropical flavors. Each dish is meticulously crafted using the freshest local ingredients, and transportation is provided, as the hotel is located on a hillside on Taboga Island.