Bluff Beach Retreat sits right on Playa Bluff on Isla Colon, a minute on foot from the sand, and it is one of the best-rated stays in the archipelago, with guests scoring it 9.6 out of 10 from 17 reviews. The property offers a wide range of accommodation, from panoramic doubles and a luxury double with ocean views to a family studio suite, a two-bedroom cabin and large houses that sleep up to nine or more, including the three-bedroom La Playa Casita and a four-bedroom beach house. There is an outdoor pool open around the clock, a restaurant, a gym, yoga classes, a spa with massage and couples treatment rooms, a library, a game room and a garden. Free bicycle rentals, trails, ecotours and horseback riding add to the activities, and beach loungers and towels are provided.
Location and getting around
The retreat is a long way from the Bocas Town waterfront, so it suits travelers who want the beach to be the point of the trip. Paunch Beach is about a seven-minute drive, Tortuga Beach about fifteen and Istmito about twenty-two, while Starfish Beach is within about sixteen miles.
Free self parking is on site, and an airport shuttle can be arranged on request for a fee. The distance from town means you will want a vehicle, a taxi arrangement or a plan for tours, and you should ask the retreat about transport when you reserve.
The rooms and the feel
The layout is spread across a garden and the beachfront, with rooms from about 350 square feet to houses of several thousand. Most have ocean or garden views, and the family studio suite and cabins give families room to spread out.
The feel is of a relaxed, upscale beach house rather than a hotel, with space to read, swim and walk the shore, and a strong wellness side with yoga and spa treatments. Surfers will enjoy being steps from Bluff, though the shorebreak is heavy and best left to experienced surfers.
Good to know
You should contact the property at least 72 hours before arrival to arrange check-in, and the front desk has limited hours, with check-in running from the morning to early evening. The minimum check-in age is 25, check-out is before 10 am and a government-issued photo ID and a credit card are required.
Breakfast is cooked to order for a fee. Children are welcome and babysitting is available for a surcharge, but cribs are not provided and balconies and terraces may not suit young children. Pets are not allowed, there is no elevator, and free cancellation applies on select rates.
Why stay here
- ✓Beachfront on Playa Bluff
- ✓Outdoor pool open 24 hours
- ✓Restaurant
- ✓Spa and massage
- ✓Yoga classes and gym
- ✓Free bicycle rentals
- ✓Horseback riding and ecotours
- ✓Free self parking
Good questions
How far is Bluff Beach Retreat from Bocas Town?+
It is on Playa Bluff, a drive from town. Ask the retreat about transport and the airport shuttle, which is available on request for a fee.
Is there a pool?+
Yes, there is an outdoor pool with 24-hour access, along with a spa, gym and yoga classes.
Are children welcome?+
Yes, children are welcome and babysitting is available for a surcharge. Cribs are not provided and balconies may not suit young children.
