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June 7, 2023

Are There Any Islands To Avoid in San Blas?

Avoiding the Crowds: Discovering the Best of San Blas

The breathtaking San Blas region is home to over 365 islands, each uniquely beautiful and a testament to the wonders of nature. However, during high season, weekends, and national holidays, some islands become overwhelmed with visitors, losing the tranquility and authenticity that make this destination so special.

Transparent kayak gliding over the crystal-clear waters of San Blas, showcasing the kind of secluded island we include in our curated itineraries—far from the crowded spots to avoid.
Pure tranquility — where privacy meets paradise, exactly what our curated itineraries are designed to offer.

Which San Blas Islands to Avoid

To truly embrace the magic of the San Blas Islands and create unforgettable memories, it’s essential to carefully choose where to go. While some islands remain untouched and serene, others have become heavily touristed, especially during weekends, holidays, and peak travel seasons. For this reason, it’s best to steer clear of overcrowded spots such as Isla Perro, Franklin’s, Isla Robenson, Isla Perro Chico, Banedub, Pelicano Island, and Chichime. These islands frequently attract large numbers of visitors, which can diminish the tranquility and make it challenging to fully immerse yourself in the region’s pristine beauty. Instead, opting for more secluded, lesser-known gems ensures a far more authentic and peaceful San Blas experience.

Isla Perro crowded with water taxis, far from the authentic San Blas experience.
Isla Perro — far from the authentic San Blas experience.

The Impact of Tourism on San Blas

Years ago, San Blas was a secluded paradise, where the Guna people thrived in harmony with nature. However, with advancements in communication and infrastructure, tourism has flourished, bringing an influx of visitors. Unfortunately, this has led to certain islands becoming saturated with tourism, forcing the local communities to adapt and, in some cases, altering their traditional way of life.

How We Choose the Best Islands to Visit

At San Blas Catamaran, we are deeply committed to providing exclusive and authentic sailing experiences in the most idyllic and unspoiled locations—far from the crowds. To achieve this, we have carefully developed a unique and thoughtful approach to selecting the best islands. This way we ensure that each destination remains untouched by mass tourism and retains its natural charm.

One of the most important indicators we use is closely observing the local Guna communities. Therefore, instead of following the typical tourist routes, we focus on handpicking the most secluded, peaceful, and breathtaking islands. This thoughtful selection process ensures that our guests enjoy a truly immersive and serene sailing experience, free from the disruptions of overcrowded destinations.

Aerial view of stunning San Blas Islands with a luxury catamaran charter sailing through turquoise waters.
We sail where the islands still whisper authenticity.

The Best Islands for an Authentic San Blas Experience

For those seeking tranquility and a true connection with nature, we highly recommend the following islands:

  • BBQ Island (Turtle Island) – A serene retreat with crystal-clear waters.

  • Maoqui (Maqui Island) in Dutch Cays – A secluded paradise known for its pristine beaches.

  • Coco Bandero – A breathtaking chain of cays, home to a secret spot that will leave you in awe.

  • Cambombia – A hidden gem with vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkeling.

  • Bapurgana – A remote escape where you can experience the untouched beauty of San Blas.
Guests relaxing on a peaceful, secluded island in San Blas.
Coco Bandero — where untouched beauty and quiet wonder define the true San Blas experience.

Experience the Best of San Blas with Us

At San Blas Catamaran, we curate unforgettable sailing adventures while preserving the authentic essence of the islands. We carefully design our itineraries to take you to the most stunning and unspoiled corners of San Blas, ensuring an exclusive and immersive experience.

Ready to explore the true San Blas? Visit our website to book your sailing itinerary and discover a world of breathtaking beauty, far from the crowds.