

Best for beginner divers, 1-6m, boat entry, moderate current.
Cayo Zapatilla South is a reef and seagrass site located within a national park in Bocas del Toro, Panama. Snorkellers can explore depths ranging from 1 to 6 metres, with an average depth of 3 metres. The site requires boat access and is suitable for beginners, though visitors should be aware of moderate currents and potential surf. Visibility varies significantly from 5 to 30 metres. Marine life recorded at this site includes Queen Angelfish, Nurse Shark, Purple Sea Fan, Pacific Trumpetfish, Peacock Flounder, Blue Tang, Stoplight Parrotfish, Caribbean Ocean Surgeonfish, various wrasses, Gorette, French Grunt, and Brain Coral. Facilities available include guided tours, toilets, and showers.
9.25272, -82.03181
The recommended entry is from the beach just to the right of the jetty to allow for a drift snorkel in the west-to-east current.
Accessible only by boat. Tours from Isla Colon often include this site.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 6m
Visibility
5-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
28-30°C
Current
Moderate
Typical Dive
60 min
Divers and snorkellers may encounter Queen Angelfish, Nurse Shark, Purple Sea Fan, Pacific Trumpetfish, Peacock Flounder, Blue Tang, Stoplight Parrotfish, Caribbean Ocean Surgeonfish, wrasses, Gorette, French Grunt, and Brain Coral.
Yes, Cayo Zapatilla South is suitable for beginners, though it is important to be mindful of moderate currents and surf conditions.
The depth ranges from 1 to 6 metres, with an average depth of 3 metres.
Boat access is required to reach this site.
Yes, this site is well-suited for snorkelling and holds a rating of 4 out of 5.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Cayo Zapatilla South in Bocas del Toro. Water temperatures range from 28°C to 30°C.
Expect moderate currents at Cayo Zapatilla South in Bocas del Toro. Good buoyancy control and some drift diving experience is helpful.
Visibility at Cayo Zapatilla South in Bocas del Toro typically ranges from 5 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.