Hotel Tierra Verde is located on Carenero Island in Bocas del Toro. This small hotel faces the water and is a good choice for adventurous, outdoorsy types.

Carenero Island is just across the water from Bocas town. It doesn’t see as many tourists as Colón Island, but is nonetheless an attractive option in the archipelago. The coastline is rugged and doesn’t have huge beaches, but it does host one of the best (and biggest) surf breaks in Bocas. It’s also easy to take boat trips from here and go snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving, or surfing. The island has a few shops and tasty restaurants to try out too.

Hotel Tierra Verde is a cheerful, three-story hotel. Its small size makes it quiet and perfect for travelers that prefer a more intimate hotel experience. This also allows you to meet other travelers while staying at the hotel – it might be at breakfast or while lounging in the hotel’s garden. There is a huge wraparound deck with ocean views that’s a nice place to read or relax. Hammocks are slung about the garden and on a dock.

The hotel’s seven rooms are constructed from dark wood, which gives them a homey feel. All have private bathrooms, hot water showers, air conditioning, wireless Internet, and semi-orthopedic mattresses. Some rooms have ocean views. There is a two-bedroom suite on the third floor. This is larger than the other rooms and has its own private balcony, living room, walk-in closet, cable TV, and mini fridge.

There is a complimentary continental breakfast served daily that consists of fresh fruit, toast, and coffee. Guests are invited to use the hotel’s kayaks or computer (which has Internet access).

The staff here is helpful and friendly. They keep the hotel clean and work hard to ensure that guests have a pleasant stay.