Frequently Asked Questions About the Pearl Islands in Panama

A quick Q & A and some handy resources for those intrigued with visiting Panama’s infamous Pearl Islands.

But first…a brief history of the Islas Perlas.

Pre-Colombian Islands in Panama

Long before they were named the Pearl Islands, indigenous tribes inhabited the islands.  In fact, some of the same Guna indigenous you will find on the San Blas Islands called these islands their home. They were the lucky ones.  Unfortunately for the Cocles and Cuevas indigenous tribes, the discovery of the islands by the Spanish in 1513 was the beginning of their demise.  Although their cultures were wiped out, you can still find pre-Colombian artifacts on Isla Del Rey.

1513 Nunez de Balboa Discovers the Pearl Islands

Given the greed of the Spanish Conquistadors, it is should be no surprise that the islands were named after the treasure Balboa discovered there, pearls!  The Islas Perlas were rich with pearls. As the interest for pearls grew, so did the need for someone to hunt for and harvest them.  At first they enslaved the indigenous, but courtesy of the poor treatment by the Spaniards (aka brutal cruelty), the indigenous were wiped out within 2 years. Later, Spain started bringing in slaves from Africa. In fact, many of the African families still inhabit the islands. Sadly, as with most resources humans exploit, the pearls dried up and the islands lost their luster for the Spanish.

Panama’s Pirate Past

Wherever you find treasure, you can be sure to find pirates. Well, back in the day anyhow. Panama was no exception, and especially on the Caribbean side. But with nearly 250 islands and inlets to hide among, it is no wonder that pirates and thieves inhabited the Pearl Islands long after the Spanish tired of it. In fact, the Spanish and pirates and thieves all inhabited one island or another for the next couple of hundred years until all the treasure dried up and they all moved on. In time, the jungle reclaimed most of the islands, restoring them to their naturally pristine pre-Colombian state. Yay for us now!

Contadora Gains Fame as an Exotic Island Getaway For the Rich & Famous

Beginning in the 60’s, people started to travel more and discover new and more remote destinations. By 1972, the very first resort was built on Contadora Island. Then, in 1979 the Shah of Iraq was taking refuge here. This brought put the Pearl Islands Panama on the map and made it a destination for the rich and famous all over the world.   An island accessible by small plane, easily explored by golf carts, and boasting several pristine beaches is of course a draw…but maybe this 1980’s promotional video for Contadora was the real draw? Or maybe not.  Regardless, this was the tipping point for tourism in the Pearl Islands and it continues to grow today.

Present Day Pearl Islands

Ok, so that was a super brief historical run through the past, but we have so much more to look forward to in the future.  More and more people are investing in real estate on the islands.  Not only resorts, but Airbnb’s are popping up all over the place too.  The Islas Perlas are no longer just a rich man’s playground.  The islands are more accessible these days by fast ferries, and there are even one day tours to the Pearl Islands from Panama City!

Frequently Asked Questions About the Islas Perlas in Panama

So, are you intrigued yet?  Ready to visit this Pacific archipelago for yourself?  Well read on to learn a few fun facts and find answers to some of frequently asked questions about the Pearl Islands.

Where are the Pearl Islands in Panama?

The Pearl Islands are on the Pacific side of Panama, about 48 km (30 mi) SE of Panama City.  Just a short trip from Panama City, the archipelago of was once the playground of Panama’s rich and famous.  It has now evolved into one of Panama’s favorite weekend getaways for all economic levels.

How Many Islands are in the Pearl Islands, Panama?

The Pearl Islands are made up of nearly 250 islands and unnamed mini islets spanning over 522,000 square km (200 square mi).  Very few of the islands are actually inhabited, which was probably why the Pearl Islands were chosen for multiple seasons of the reality show, Survivor.

How do I get from Panama City to the Pearl Islands?

The most reliable way to travel from Panama City to the Pearl Islands is by boat.  Sea Las Perlas offers daily ferry’s to both Saboga and Contadora islands. There is also and airport on Contadora Island. Air Panama states they have daily flights, however in our experience, flights are not always available.  If you are hoping to fly to Contadora, you will want to be flexible with your dates and book well in advance. The alternative would be to book a private charter from Albrook Airport.

Where is the best place to stay on the Pearl Islands?

The biggest island in the Pearl Islands is Del Rey (The King), however it is not the most populated.  The best island to stay on is probably the most populated too, Isla Contadora. Contadora Island is only 67km from Panama City and has a rich tourism market. Contadora is easy to access and there are plenty of things to do once on the island.  It’s neighbor, Saboga Island is also a growing tourist destination worth checking out if you want to hit up an island a little less touristy, but just a hop away from Contadora.

If you really want to explore the islands, the best way to enjoy everything Las Perlas has to offer is on a multi-day sailing trip.

Is there an airport in the Pearl Islands?

Yes, Contadora Island is only 67 km from Panama and quick 15 minute flight from Panama City. Mind you, the tiny airstrip can be considered an adventure in itself.

Can I go to from Panama City to the Pearl Islands in just one day?

Yes you can visit the islands in just one day from Panama City. Popular one day tours to visit the Pearl Islands are growing in popularity. Full day trips can take you to Isla Chapera, Isla Bolaños or Isla Contadora.  If you are prone to get seasick however, a quick boat trip to Taboga Island may be a better choice.

What is the weather like in the Pearl Islands?

The weather in the Pearl Islands is pretty consistent throughout the year.  Being near the equator, there is about 12 hours of daylight all year long and the temperatures average between 22°-32° Celcius (71°-89°F)

Hottest Months: February, March & April with average highs of 32 Celsius or 89 Fahrenheit

Coolest Months: October & November with average highs of 29 Celsius or 84 Fahrenheit

Don’t be fooled by the highs, January has the coldest lows too at 22 Celsius or 71 Fahrenheit

Most Rainy Days: October takes the cake with 25 days of rainfall on average

Least Rainy Days: January through April is the “Dry Season” with only 11 to 16 days of rain’

Don’t let the amount of rain deter you, this is the tropics after all. A lot of time it rains at night or just a quick shower during the day and back to sunshine

Sea Temperatures: You may get a little chilly if you are going to take a swim between December and April.  Not to worry, you can still sunbathe from the bow of your boat while seeking out whales during that time instead.

When is the best time to visit the Pearl Islands?

Ultimately, the dry season is the best time to visit the Pearl Islands. If you are seeking out sunshine and sandy beaches on your Panama vacation, we recommend visiting between December and April.  December through February you will even have the opportunity to see humpback whales right from the beach.

What kind of marine life will you find at the Pearl Islands?

Humpback whales are the real highlight here! In fact, whale watching in the Pearl Islands has become one of the most popular things to do in Panama. Aside from the whales, you can find 4 different types of dolphins too.  Snorkeling is incredible, but the migration of marine birds is pretty spectacular too.  You can even find blue footed booby birds in the Pearls!. If you want to seek out marine life, we recommend renting a fast boat charter from Panama City to explore the islands.

Which set of islands are better to visit, San Blas or Pearl Islands?

Both archipelagos offer pristine beaches, rich marine life & crystal clear water, but the similarities end there.  I cannot think of a more night and day comparison when it comes to recommending a vacation destination.  If you love a very rustic cultural experience, the San Blas Islands are for you.  If you prefer the luxuries of a resort or even basic plumbing and variety of food options available, then Pearl Islands are a better match.

This pretty much sums up our most frequently asked questions, but if you have your own we are happy to help guide you in the right direction.  Just contact us or leave a comment.  Have fun planning your Pearl Islands Panama trip!