Bocas Del Toro probably doesn't pop up in your mind when you think about Caribbean destinations. But if you’re looking for swaths of white sand, crystal clear diving and snorkeling, and a truly unique nightlife, and perhaps some $1 brews, then maybe you should look into it. After all, the beer just tastes better in Bocas!

Bocas, an archipelago of 60 islands, is located on the western edge of Panama's Caribbean coast, just a short hop from Costa Rica. The main island, Isla Colon, is home to Bocas Town, and the only roads or cars in the entire archipelago. While Bocas Town is a fairly small place, very easily walkable from one end to another, it’s diversity in restaurants, lodging and nightlife is truly impressive.

Start the day off with a quick trip to Bastimentos, a 10 minute boat ride from Bocas Town. There you can saddle up at Roots, a laid back (to say the least) reggae bar built out over the water. Beer will run you about $1 each, and the food is authentic and rich. Once happy hour rolls around, boat it back to Bocas Town and hit the bar at Mondo Taitu where happy hour beers are $.50 and all of the international travelers flow in. If you’re there on Friday night, there’s usually a wild theme party.

Later in the evening stroll over to Barco Hundido (translated ship wreck) and dance your ass off with some of the local talent. Jaegermeister is the poison of choice at this fine establishment, and rumor has it that it has driven the owners to do some wild things in the past. Barco Hundido has a back deck that floats on the water, and local legend maintains that the owners sometime untie this section of the bar and let the party float out into the lagoon, until stumbled upon by a stray taxi boat. The unlucky intoxicated travelers end the evening at the local casino, being stripped of tuition money and pride.

Roll out of bed after a night of debauchery and head to any number of white sand beaches with flat crystal clear water. Lay out with a few beers, snorkel among the coral reef, or just enjoy the view. If surfing is your shake, then try your hand at any number of local breaks especially Dumpers; a great reef break, or Silverbacks; a heavy 25 ft Hawaiian like monster (not recommended when hung-over). There are other water sports in Bocas like jet skiing, diving, parasailing, sailing and kayaking.

To sum it up, Bocas is an island paradise that doesn’t have the cost. The beaches are amazing, the weather pristine, the water refreshing, and the beer is always cold.

Getting there: From Panama City or San Jose Costa Rica by plane. Several flights daily.
Where to Stay:

• Budget – Mondo Taitu
• Mid-range – Bocas Inn
• Luxury – Punta Caracol Aqua lodge

For more information about Bocas Del Toro, visit www.traveljunkiescostarica.com