Islas Secas is an ultra-private island retreat off Panama’s Pacific coast, set within a 14-island archipelago and hosting just 32 guests.
Fully solar-powered and committed to conservation, it offers a rare combination of wilderness, comfort, and purpose. Seven sleek casitas of varying sizes, along with one larger casa, are hidden among the trees – each with ocean views, plunge pools, and indoor-outdoor living spaces.
At the heart of Islas Secas sits the Terrazza, an ocean-facing, vaulted space for dining and convivial gathering, with an impressive infinity pool. Days can be spent on marine safaris, snorkelling in Coiba National Park, paddleboarding through mangroves, and exploring deserted beaches
What we love about Islas Secas
- Each of the private casitas is framed by lush tropical gardens, with sweeping vistas over the Gulf of Chiriquí. Ranging from one- to four-bedroom, each has its own soaking pool or plunge pool.
- The grandest house, Casa Cavada, is a spectacular four-bedroom private residence with its own infinity pool, a private chef and a house manager.
- The excellent restaurant and island bar, with cuisine that celebrates Panama’s coastal bounty: freshly caught fish grilled over open flames, lobster barbecued on the beach, and tropical produce sourced from nearby farms.
- The vast range of expert-led activities: Islas Secas has its own fleet of private boats, and offers sailing, scuba diving, fishing, whale watching and more.
- The striking infinity pool and the nearby Seascent spa, with two wellness tents, complete with swing seats and soaking baths for optimal unwinding.
- The eco-minded ownership, backed by conservationist Louis Bacon: 75% of the archipelago is permanently undeveloped, allowing native flora and fauna to thrive, and energy and water use are carefully managed to ensure minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
Set off on diving expeditions from the island’s specialised centre or snorkel in the warm waters among schools of multicoloured fish, eagle rays and white-tip reef sharks.
Marvel as sea turtles and dolphins swim alongside divers. One of 50 in the world, the Turbine Otter is an amphibious plane with both floats and wheels. On standby for marine safaris, spot whale sharks while the plane makes shadows on the glistening waters.
The nearby Coiba National Park is accessible by boat. Sail through some of Latin America’s most biodiverse waters while saltwater crocodiles prey and noisy howler monkeys swing from the treetops.
20kms from civilisation, guests can charter a private seaplane for a 45-minute flight direct from Panama City to Islas Secas. Instead of flying, visitors may embark on a 75-minute boat trip from the port, near to domestic airport David. Chugging along the Gulf of Chiriquí, travellers will be regaled with tales of mythical pirates who used to inhabit the volcanic coastline.
When to Travel
January to April
Islas Secas is open from December to July. For consistently warm, sunny weather, January and April is ideal, while whale-watching is at its best in June and July. The island closes between August and November due to torrential rains.
Looking for more inspiration? Learn more about our bespoke holidays and adventures in Panama, or discover our other luxury properties.
