Garden of Eden Inn

A rustic wooden trellis surrounded by leafy tropical plants leads into the adult-only Garden of Eden Inn. From there, a narrow concrete path cuts through the rainforest vegetation that's found throughout the grounds, leading to a lime-green check-in building. With the tropical vibe, and regular appearances by hummingbirds and geckos, it makes sense that this is an eco-conscious property powered by solar panels and purified rain water. As such, there's an off-the-grid feeling here, with no evidence of the bustling Bocas Town scene located a water-taxi ride away. Owned by a friendly couple that's lived here for over a decade, the inn has a homey element as well -- statues of pink flamingos and mermaids dot the grounds, and the owners' two friendly dogs roam freely. Open-air wooden buildings hold a restaurant and a game room, but guests are often found relaxing in hammocks or around the pool, where thatched-roof huts offer some shade. Couples are the main clientele, particularly those looking to unwind in an authentic Panamanian setting. It's also possible to rent out the entire island, in which case children are allowed. 

The inn is situated at the tip of Isla Solarte, located about a 20-minute water-taxi ride from Bocas Town. Guests can fly into Bocas from Panama City or San Jose, Costa Rica, or take a bus from either city. Once at the inn, there's nothing in the way of restaurants or shops in walking distance. However, snorkeling is available off the on-site dock, and guests can kayak through the surrounding mangrove, navigating around small surrounding islands; it's not unusual to spot dolphins. The owners can arrange for trips and snorkeling excursions to nearby islands such as Dolphin Bay, Zapatillas, and Coral Cay. Beaches on the other side of the bay are easy to reach -- options include Red Frog beach (five-minute water taxi ride) and from there, it's a 10-minute walk to Turtle Beach or about 40 minutes on foot to the more secluded snorkeling spot, Polo Beach. Trips to a cacao farm and the so-called Bat Caves can also be arranged. 

Rooms and suites at the Garden of Eden Inn are found in small buildings with tile floors and pitched wooden roofs. They're decorated in a simple and home-like style with patterned bed quilts, a few kitschy tropical accents, and a minimal amount of wooden furniture -- bedside cabinets, small dining tables, and/or dressers and love seats. Each room has a wooden deck with a hammock and simple patio furniture, with views of the bay. Amenities are kept to a minimum as well -- there are no TVs or air-conditioning, though each room has free Wi-Fi and fans for staying cool. Bathrooms can feel a little dated and rustic, with walk-in showers -- some with rainfall showerheads -- and a separate soaking tub in the Butterfly Suite, the nicest option available. Toiletries are not provided and housekeeping is only every few days as part of the inn's eco-conscious approach. Guests should expect a limited amount of hot water and the occasional insect encounter. 

The on-site restaurant serves a light Caribbean-style breakfast daily that includes tropical fruits, homemade granolas, bread, yogurt, coffee, tea, and juice. Lunch and dinner are also served (not included in the rates), and menus change according to what's fresh and available -- typical options include seafood or meat for dinner, and smoothies are also offered during the day. Special dietary requirements and private in-suite dinners can be arranged. The restaurant also has a bar. There are some free on-site water sports, including kayaking and snorkeling off the dock. Owners can arrange for other active excursions such as surfing trips. Yoga classes are sometimes held on the outdoor pool deck and group yoga classes can be arranged as well. A games room is on-site and Wi-Fi is free.