Top 9 Beaches in the San Blas Islands (Guna Yala) to Visit Now

Sea San Blas • May 27, 2025

Forget crowded beaches and overrated tourist resorts—your Panama island-hopping vacation just got an upgrade. Located off Panama’s Caribbean coast is the incredible archipelago known as San Blas Islands (Guna Yala), home to more than 350 tropical islands and cays. These islands offer untouched paradise with white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and gently swaying palm trees. If you've dreamed of a San Blas Islands getaway, filled with snorkeling, relaxation, and island adventures, you've found your travel bucket list destination.

A small island with palm trees in the middle of the ocean.

Here are the 9 best beaches in San Blas Islands to put on your Panama travel itinerary:

1. Isla Perro (Dog Island) – Panama Island-Hopping Vacation Favorite

Isla Perro is a top destination for travelers on a Panama island-hopping vacation thanks to its iconic shipwreck perfect for snorkeling. The island’s turquoise water, soft sand, and coconut palms offer the ideal setting for relaxation and exploration. Sea San Blas tours include day trips and overnight cabin stays, ensuring your visit is unforgettable.


2. Isla Diablo – Authentic San Blas Islands Experience

Adjacent to Isla Perro, Isla Diablo provides a peaceful alternative for your San Blas Islands getaway. Offering pristine beaches and incredible snorkeling opportunities, visitors will also experience authentic Guna culture and panoramic ocean views.


3. Isla Chichime – The Perfect San Blas Islands Getaway

For travelers seeking tranquility, Isla Chichime is ideal for overnight stays during a San Blas Islands getaway. Enjoy sunset views, snorkeling in clear waters, and leisurely strolls along its golden-sand beaches. Sea San Blas even offers memorable sailboat overnight adventures.


4. Isla Franklin (Wailidup) – Tropical Paradise in Panama

With picturesque scenery drawn straight from travel brochures, Isla Franklin offers white sand, palm-lined beaches, and shallow clear waters perfect for swimming. Comfortable overnight cabins make it ideal for your Panama island-hopping vacation experience.



5. Isla Narasgandup – Uncrowded Panama Island Escape

Looking for a secluded and unspoiled beach experience? Isla Narasgandup ensures serenity with quiet coves, peaceful beaches, and few visitors. Relax, stroll, and enjoy tranquil moments on this hidden gem during your San Blas Islands getaway.


6. Isla Aguja (Needle Island) – A Local Favorite Near Panama Mainland

Conveniently accessible, Isla Aguja combines pristine beaches, warm waters, and vibrant marine life perfect for snorkelers. Its proximity to Panama’s coast makes it popular with local and international island hoppers alike.


7. Isla Banedub – Picture-Perfect Small Island in San Blas

Small but incredibly photogenic, Isla Banedub offers clear, shallow waters perfect for relaxing dips or Instagram-worthy photos. It's a favored stop during island tours and an ideal addition to your Panama travel itinerary.


8. Isla Pelicano – Famous Beach in San Blas Islands Seen on Netflix

Featured in Netflix’s "Money Heist," Isla Pelicano delivers famous beaches with dazzling sands and shallow, turquoise waters. Sea San Blas offers memorable day trips and cozy overnight cabins, optimizing your visit to this iconic destination.


9. Isla Kuanidup – Ideal for Relaxation on Your San Blas Islands Getaway

For stargazing and tranquility, Isla Kuanidup provides peaceful beaches, warm sands, and a relaxed atmosphere. Wake up early for inspiring sunrises and swimming experiences during your Panama island-hopping vacation.

Plan Your Dream San Blas Islands Getaway with Sea San Blas!

Sea San Blas makes experiencing these incredible San Blas beaches easy. Book one-of-a-kind day trips, cozy overnight stays, or multi-day sailboat adventures today and unlock the tropical paradise adventure of your dreams.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Visiting the San Blas Islands:

  • How do I get to the San Blas Islands?

    Most visitors travel from Panama City by a 2.5- to 3-hour 4x4 drive, followed by a short boat ride. Sea San Blas arranges transport packages to simplify your journey.

  • Do I need a passport or special visa to visit San Blas?

    If you're already legally admitted in Panama, no extra visas are required to visit San Blas. However, visitors must pay a small entrance fee ($22 tourists / $7 residents) due upon arrival, as the region is autonomously governed by the local Guna community.

  • What's the best time to visit San Blas Islands for beach weather?

    The dry season (December to April) offers sunny weather perfect for island hopping. Still, San Blas remains appealing year-round, thanks to Sea San Blas tours prioritizing guests’ safety and comfort.


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