STARFISH BEACH
A calm, wave-free mangrove cove on Isla Colón known for big orange cushion starfish sitting in clear shallow water.
Starfish Beach sits tucked on the sheltered northwestern side of Isla Colón, right around the corner from Boca del Drago. Because it faces inward toward the bay behind a mangrove spit, there are zero waves here year-round. The water stays flat, clear, and warm like a swimming pool, making it by far the easiest and most popular spot for families, toddlers, and casual swimmers. The main draw is the colony of large orange, red, and yellow cushion starfish resting across the sandy sea-grass bottom in knee to waist-deep water. Behind the narrow sand strip, local Afro-Caribbean families run rustic wooden shacks playing reggae and serving whole fried red snapper, patacones (fried plantains), and fresh coconuts. It does get busy between noon and 3 PM when boat tours arrive from town, so going early in the morning makes a world of difference.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Take a shared van (colectivo) from Simón Bolívar park in Bocas Town to Boca del Drago (30 mins). From Drago dock, walk the flat 15-minute jungle path along the water or take a local lancha boat directly to the sand.
History & Origins
In October 1502, Christopher Columbus anchored his fleet just north at Boca del Drago to wait out heavy storms. The name "Drago" came from the dangerous dragon-like current in the outer channel, while Estrella remained a quiet indigenous fishing cove for centuries.
Real Talk & Safety
Never lift starfish out of the water—they breathe through tiny skin gills and suffocate in seconds. Also, bug spray and chemical sunscreens on your hands poison their skin. Admire them underwater with a mask.
