This shallow snorkeling spot is nestled at the southern tip of Isla Bastimentos, directly facing Cayo Coral within Panama's vibrant Bocas del Toro archipelago. It is primarily accessed via boat as a popular stop for numerous snorkeling tours visiting the region. With a maximum depth of just 1 meter (approximately 3 feet), it is not suitable for scuba diving but offers an excellent, easily navigable underwater experience for snorkelers. Exploration involves leisurely drifting around the stilts of the Restaurante Alfonso and along the serene edge of the nearby mangrove forest.
Visitors can observe various marine life in the clear, shallow waters, including different species of starfish, colorful corals, and numerous types of fish. The mangrove edge provides a nursery environment, potentially attracting juvenile fish and other small creatures, making it a lively ecosystem for observation.
The ideal time to visit Restaurante Alfonso is during Panama's dry season, typically from December to April, when weather conditions are most stable and underwater visibility is generally at its best. This site is particularly recommended for families, young children, and beginner snorkelers due to its calm, extremely shallow waters. For those enjoying breath-hold exploration, it offers a relaxing environment to observe marine life up close. Visitors are encouraged to practice responsible tourism by using reef-safe sunscreens and avoiding touching the delicate corals and other marine organisms.
