All photos this page: ©2007 Scott Doggett, Special to WhozHereNow.com

In Lonely Planet’s guidebook to Panama, second edition, I wrote that Al Natural on Isla Bastimentos was my favorite place to stay in the entire country. Five years later, it remains at or near the top of my list of favorite Panamanian destinations.

There’s something magical about waking up, looking down past your toes, and seeing breakers rise and fall on azure water a stone’s throw away. And you can do this at Al Natural, because most of their circular cabañas have no front wall. And if you’re really lucky, the lovely natural view will be accompanied by sounds from the jungle that is just on the other side of the back wall.

Each of the six thatch-roofed bungalows sits on stilts, which place them above the narrow line of brush that separates the cabanas from expiring waves washing up on golden sand a few feet away. The same brush offers those inside the cabañas complete privacy from anyone who might stroll past on the secluded beach.

All of the “natural houses,” as the Belgian owner refers to them, contain a tiled bathroom with a hot-water shower, good lighting powered by a 12-volt solar system, and one or two orthopedic queen-size beds under a custom-made mosquito netting.

Every bungalow is fitted with comfy chairs, a coffee table and a hammock. One of the structures is two-story, with a queen-size bed on each floor, and another features two master bedrooms with a queen-size bed in each, and one bedroom with two single beds or another queen-size bed (as you wish).

Other facilities include an open-sided dining room and bar with natural wood furniture and unpainted wooden walls, and a sundeck that extends from the beach over the calm, safe-swimming water out front.

Rates range upward from about $100 a night and include reception at the airport on Isla Colón, transportation to and from the resort, which is about 30 minutes by boat from Bocastown, three meals a day based on fresh produce and the catch of the day, and free use of kayaks, snorkel gear and fishing tackle.

There’s a two-night minimum and discounts for stays of a week or more are available. Various excursions can be arranged. Payment can be made by cash or bank transfers only (no credit cards or travelers' checks). Allow three to five days for an email response, with wiring instructions, to your reservation request.

Location

Punta Vieja

Isla Bastimentos

Bocas del Toro

Panama