Top Islands in Central America for Your Tropical Getaway

You have to pity historic seafarers – with so many paradise islands to choose from in Central America, it must have been a daily challenge deciding where to weigh anchor. Stunning specks of green jungle and blond sand dot the coastline of the isthmus, all different from one another, and some quite unusual.

To set the scene, one island – more than 300 miles off the coast of Costa Rica – is said to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. Real-life pirates once menaced this stretch of ocean, setting up secret bases on islands such as Roatan off the coast of Honduras.

Many of the best-known isles are strung out along the Caribbean Coast, but there are also islands off the Pacific Coast, and more dotted around Central America’s volcanic lakes. Some are composed of limestone and sand, while others were thrown up by volcanoes or spawned by coral reefs, and all offer a uniquely Central American taste of the tropics.

Regardless of which island you choose, pack your sunscreen and a sense of adventure. Here’s our pick of the best islands in Central America.

Bocas del Toro, Panama: The Perfect Tropical Getaway

Best for a Caribbean Vibe

When people envision a dream Caribbean getaway, clear turquoise waters, swaying palm trees, and brightly colored weatherboard houses are essential, and you’ll find all of this and more at Bocas del Toro. This lively archipelago off the northwestern shore of Panama consists of a sprinkling of sun-sizzled islands, along with hundreds of tiny uninhabited islets.

You can show up by plane from Panama City or David, by ferry boat from Almirante, or from Puerto Viejo and Cahuita in Costa Rica. Most visitors stay on Isla Colón, the most popular and populated island, but you can also park up on quieter Isla Carenero or Isla Bastimentos – the largest and most chilled out of the islands.

Short trips by water taxi connect these and other main islands, and popular ways to pass the time include boat trips to spot dolphins and mangrove birdlife, inland hikes, surfing, coastal kayaking, snorkeling, and tours of cacao farms, along with plenty of lazing on the sand.

Ambergris Caye, Belize: An Active Island Experience

Best for Reefs and Nightlife

A sizable crowd of North American escapees have set up base in the seaside condos on pretty Ambergris Caye, the largest island on the Caribbean coast of Belize. This destination offers sugar-sand beaches, diving on the largest barrier reef in the Americas, and buzzing nightlife.

From the glitzy resorts to the lively downtown hub of San Pedro, frequented by convivial locals and sun-dazed tourists, it’s a perfect mix for travelers who enjoy comfort and action in their paradise experience. Ambergris offers seemingly infinite opportunities for recreation – from beachside water sports to spectacular diving and snorkeling tours on the barrier reef system offshore.

Isla de Ometepe, Nicaragua: A Haven for Adventure Seekers

Best for Adventure Activities

Formed by two conjoined volcanoes rising from Lake Nicaragua, the island of Ometepe is Central America’s premier stop for backpackers seeking outdoor adventure. Thrill-seekers arrive by ferry from St Jorge and dive right in, renting scooters, riding horses to jungle waterfalls, kayaking, or summiting the Maderas Volcano.

For less intrepid travelers, there’s great swimming on the beaches near the Ecological Reserve Charco Verde – a pretty lagoon that is an excellent swimming spot. Additionally, finding petroglyphs that adorn rocks across the island is a rewarding activity.

Honduras’ Blissful Bay Islands: An Underwater Playground

Best for Affordable Diving

These long, narrow islands off the northern coast of Honduras offer some of Central America’s best underwater adventures. The largest and best-known island, Roatan, formerly a pirate hideout, now caters to a diverse range of travelers due to its chic resorts and beautiful beaches.

Budget travelers will find Utila to be the low-cost option, boasting abundant cheap accommodation and some of the most affordable scuba certification courses in the world. Divers can also enjoy whale shark sightings throughout the year, alongside vibrant nightlife.

Archipiélago de San Blas, Panama: An Off-Grid Adventure

Best for Escaping the World

This adventurous stop is perfect for those traveling between Panama and Colombia. The Archipiélago de San Blas consists of 365 islands and is self-governed by the Guna community, famed for its traditional dancing and crafts. There’s minimal development here, with palm-thatched villages and natural beauty prevailing.

Days are spent enjoying the pristine beaches and exploring the coral reefs, offering a serene escape from modern life.

Las Isletas, Nicaragua: Ideal for Day-Trippers

Best for Freshwater Island-Hopping

Formed by the eruption of Mombacho Volcano, Las Isletas is a collection of over 300 tiny islands teeming with birdlife and lush vegetation, located just a short distance from Granada. Visitors can ferry around the islets or kayak while observing the luxurious vacation homes that dot the islands.

Caye Caulker, Belize: The Epitome of Relaxation

Best for Backpacker Beach Fun

If Ambergris Caye is Belize’s bustling hub, Caye Caulker is its laid-back counterpart. This slender island attracts backpackers and families looking to unwind on white sandy beaches. Here, you can relax in hammocks and enjoy local rum drinks at beachside bars.

Corn Islands, Nicaragua: A Low-Key Escape

Best for Unspoiled Beaches

Off the coast of Nicaragua, the Corn Islands are known for their stilted cottages, fresh seafood, and idyllic beaches. Whether you’re fishing for lobster or simply unwinding, the islands provide a serene atmosphere.

Flores, Guatemala: Gateway to Mayan Wonders

Best for Mayan History

Located on Lake Petén Itzá, Flores serves as a base for exploring Tikal, one of the most impressive Mayan ruins in Central America. This quaint town features cobblestone streets, romantic plazas, and a scenic lakeside promenade.

Isla del Coco, Costa Rica: A Slice of Adventure

Best for Finding Treasure

About 300 miles southwest of Costa Rica, Isla del Coco is a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in history and mystery. Known for its nutrient-rich waters, it attracts an array of marine life including hammerhead sharks.

This remote destination, accessible only by liveaboard trips, offers a chance to explore its natural beauty and legendary tales of treasure.