Pearl Islands Panama

The Pearl Islands of Panama are a cluster of islands situated on the Pacific side of this country, directly south of Panama City. From City it is a mere fifteen minute plan ride. However, two hour ferry ride to Contadora, which is its most famous island, takes you into the land of pirates and pearls where over 90 islands and 130 islets make up the Archipelago de las Perlas, named by Baloa in 1513. The climate is tropical with the temperatures ranging between a low of 68 degrees and a high of 93degrees and an average of 76 degrees. Also, there are no hurricanes or earthquakes to worry about.

Brief History

During the pre-Columbian era, the Pearl Islands, of Panama was once ruled b an Indian Chieftain. The main livelihood of the Indian king’s subjects was diving for pearls, which were used as ornaments and for trading. Some of the world’s most prominent pearls were from the waters of this island, and they were also once known to shelter infamous pirates from all over the world. These buccaneers hid out here to attack and loot wealthy Spanish settlements and fleets throughout the Caribbean. The Spaniards were also attracted to these areas, because of its wealth in gold and pearls. Oysters and their pearls are still found in these aqua waters.

Over the centuries pearls harvested here have adorned kings and queens of Europe, and they included the 400 year old 31 carat famous “La Peregrina” pearl believed to be owned by Elizabeth Taylor.

Today the Pearl Islands is famous for its beaches and resorts, and has calm waters that are great for fishing, snorkeling, sailing and scuba diving.

Famous Islands

The largest and most frequented of the Pearl Islands is the Contadora, which is located in the Pacific Ocean about 50 miles from Panama City. It was named after the houses that were used to count pearls. The Contadora has over thirteen fascinating beaches along its three sides and there is one that you can sun bathe au natural, if you so desire. You can take excursions to nearby areas, most of which are uninhabited and find your own private beach for sunbathing and picnicking. Contadora is surrounded by coral reef fields which make it a haven for snorkeling and scuba diving.

The second largest is San Jose, which has an estimated land area of 44 Square kilometers and is just 90 minutes away from Panama City. It has lots of coral white, ebony black and radiant gold beaches and coves, surrounded by temperate, turquoise blue waters, and is covered with lush green vegetation and gentle sloping hills with its apex located to its north.

The Pearl Islands of Panama was recently featured in the most watched reality TV program—Survivor: Pearl Islands”. This TV program featured three seasons on the island and these three seasons were the most watched
of al the Survivor episodes.

Coastline

The coastline is very irregular, affording many anchorage locations, being the best, Bodega Bay, on the west, one mile in length, and half a mile wide. There are many fresh water rivers and streams eventually flowing into the ocean creating a food source for many species of fish, both saltwater and brackish species. This provides excellent opportunities for inshore fishing excitement directly from shore.

Soil

The soil is extremely fertile and nourishes a wide variety of vegetation including gallery forests with trees rising 80 feet and higher, with occasional arboreal giant. Coconut palms and wild sugar cane are found along the coastline.

Wildlife is abundant and consistent with the rich vegetation and the profusion of water, with a population of over 3,000 wild pigs and large quantities of deer, iguanas, agoutis, parrot and giant pigeons. There is more than 100 species of birds located in this area.

Great Investment

Some of the most stunning beaches are to be found on the islands of Panama and it is no surprise that the Pearl Islands are among the most beautiful. Crystal clear waters, coral reefs, rainforests and coconut palms are back drops for sailing, diving, fishing or merely soaking up the sun in your own piece of paradise. Whether you are interested in tourism or investing in a dream property, you should definitely look into the Pearl Islands.