
Starfish Beach Playa Estrella
A Caribbean paradise on Isla Colon, Bocas del Toro, famous for its clear waters and abundant starfish.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more starfish

Starfish Beach Playa Estrella
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more starfish

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Caribbean paradise on Isla Colon, Bocas del Toro, famous for its clear waters and abundant starfish.
"This is probably the closest to paradise I have ever experienced."

🚶♀️ Walk to the End
Keep walking past restaurants for quieter spots & better snorkeling.
🚫 Don't Touch Starfish
Admire them from afar; touching harms these beautiful creatures.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abundant Starfish
Shallow waters
Witness numerous colorful starfish in the crystal-clear, shallow waters. A truly magical sight!

Calm, Clear Waters
The entire beach
Enjoy the serene, transparent waters perfect for swimming and wading. Ideal for a relaxing dip.

Local Concessions
Along the beach
Savor delicious local food and refreshing drinks from beachside vendors. Try a piña colada!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Starfish Beach
Respecting the Starfish
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk to the End
Keep walking past restaurants for quieter spots & better snorkeling.
🚫 Don't Touch Starfish
Admire them from afar; touching harms these beautiful creatures.
💰 Bus Fare
The bus to Playa Estrella costs about $2.50 one-way.
🩴 Water Shoes Recommended
The seabed can have steps and drop-offs; water shoes offer protection.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk to the End
Keep walking past restaurants for quieter spots & better snorkeling.
🚫 Don't Touch Starfish
Admire them from afar; touching harms these beautiful creatures.
💰 Bus Fare
The bus to Playa Estrella costs about $2.50 one-way.
🩴 Water Shoes Recommended
The seabed can have steps and drop-offs; water shoes offer protection.
🍍 Local Flavors
Enjoy fresh seafood and tropical drinks like piña coladas from local vendors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Starfish Beach is lauded for its stunning natural beauty, featuring crystal-clear waters and abundant starfish. Visitors appreciate the calm environment, perfect for swimming and relaxation, along with the delicious local food and drinks. However, some reviews mention concerns about overcrowding and the impact of tourism on the starfish population, alongside occasional issues with waste management.
"Such a gorgeous, peaceful beach with shallow water, white sand and lots of starfish! We took a ferry over here amd spent several hours enjoying the beach!"
Rebecca L.
"It is a place that could pass as paradise on earth. We were there today, Monday and have to say it was busy. Unfortunately, the same story here again, too much tourism and too little structure (to protect everything better) destroys everything. We did see some Starfish but there weren't many. You can also enjoy delicious food and drinks here, but keep in mind that you will be here for at least 3.5 hours (which is long by my standards) and the smell of the waste is unbearable, you can smell it almost everywhere, which is extremely disappointing. Hopefully, efforts will be made to prevent these scenes in the future."
Peter Schampaert
"A lot of restaurants and local people. There is no much of sand but the water is clear and you can see starfishes. The restaurant do have great food and cool drinks. I could recommend to drink a pina colada"
Tanja Wolf
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is to take a bus from the main square in Bocas Town towards Playa Estrella (Starfish Beach). The bus ride takes about 40-45 minutes and costs around $2.50 each way. After getting off the bus, it's a 15-minute walk to the beach.
Yes, renting an ATV is another exciting way to reach Starfish Beach. It offers an adventurous journey through the island's jungle landscape before arriving at the coast.
While buses are more common, some visitors arrive by boat or water taxi, especially if they are already exploring the Bocas del Toro archipelago.
Once you disembark the bus, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to reach the shores of Starfish Beach.
While you can drive an ATV or car to a certain point, the final approach to Starfish Beach involves a walk, as direct vehicle access to the sand is limited.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Starfish Beach (Playa Estrella) does not typically have an entrance fee. Access to the beach itself is generally free, though you may pay for services like chair rentals or food.
Starfish Beach is a natural attraction and is generally accessible throughout daylight hours. Local vendors and restaurants operate on their own schedules, usually from morning to late afternoon.
No advance booking is required for Starfish Beach. It's a public beach, and you can visit spontaneously.
The main restriction is to respect the environment, particularly the starfish. Do not touch, move, or remove them from the water.
While you can bring your own, there are many local vendors offering food and drinks. Purchasing from them supports the local economy.
🎫 ⭐ Starfish & Wildlife
You can expect to see a good number of starfish, especially in the shallow, calm waters. While some reviews mention fewer than in the past, they are still a prominent feature.
Yes, it is safe to swim in the waters where starfish are present, as long as you are mindful of your steps and do not touch them. The water is shallow and calm.
Besides starfish, you might spot tropical fish while snorkeling, and some visitors have reported seeing scarlet macaws or sloths in the surrounding areas.
Politely remind them that touching or removing starfish is harmful to their survival and the ecosystem.
While not always advertised, local boat tours might offer opportunities to see starfish. However, the beach itself is easily accessible for independent viewing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of local dishes, often featuring fresh seafood. Many beachside concessions offer traditional Panamanian cuisine.
Yes, there are several restaurants and local vendors along the beach offering delicious food and cool drinks.
Piña coladas are a very popular and refreshing choice at Starfish Beach, often enjoyed while relaxing by the water.
Prices are generally reasonable, with piña coladas costing around $4. Expect similar pricing for other food and beverages.
Options might be limited, but it's worth asking the local vendors. Many dishes can be adapted, or you might find fruit-based options.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant starfish in the clear water, the palm-fringed white sand beaches, and the calm turquoise sea offer stunning photo opportunities.
Morning light is often ideal for clear, bright photos. However, the soft light of late afternoon can also be beautiful.
Yes, you can take photos of the starfish, but remember to do so without touching them. Get close to capture their intricate details.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local advisories before flying a drone to ensure compliance and respect for other visitors and wildlife.
A waterproof camera or phone case is highly recommended for capturing underwater shots of the starfish. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive beach scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, although local vendors offer refreshments. The short walk from the bus stop is manageable for most children. The relaxed atmosphere ensures a stress-free day trip for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for affordable piña coladas around $4 and enjoy the natural beauty without spending a fortune. Renting a hammock might be a small cost, but it enhances the relaxation experience significantly.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider bringing a waterproof camera or phone case to get those magical underwater shots of the starfish. The best light is often in the morning, but the golden hour before sunset can also yield beautiful results. Don't forget to explore the less crowded areas further down the beach for potentially more diverse marine life and fewer people in your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Playa Estrella
Once you alight the bus, a pleasant 15-minute walk through lush vegetation leads you to the pristine shores. For those seeking a more thrilling experience, renting an ATV allows you to explore the island's roads and jungle paths before arriving at the beach. Some visitors also opt for boat tours, which can offer a scenic approach directly to the coastline.
It's worth noting that the bus route is well-established, making it an accessible option for most travelers. Always confirm the bus destination with the driver to ensure you're heading towards Playa Estrella.
The Starfish Phenomenon
However, it's crucial to emphasize the importance of not touching or removing the starfish. These animals are delicate and play a vital role in the marine ecosystem. Many travelers have noted a decline in their numbers compared to previous years, possibly due to increased tourism. Responsible viewing ensures that future visitors can also marvel at this natural spectacle.
When exploring the waters, be mindful of where you step. The seabed can have uneven surfaces, and you might accidentally step on a starfish. Snorkeling further up the beach, near the mangroves, is often recommended for better visibility and a chance to see more marine life, including rays and barracudas.
Local Flavors and Relaxation
Many visitors rave about the refreshing piña coladas, often served in hollowed-out pineapples, making for a festive and delicious treat. Prices are generally affordable, with drinks typically costing around $4. This provides a great opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy the laid-back island vibe.
Beyond dining, you can rent hammocks and chairs to maximize your relaxation. The gentle lapping of waves and the tropical ambiance create an idyllic setting for a leisurely afternoon.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit