If the Pearl Islands aren’t already on your Panama vacation bucket list, it’s time to rearrange your priorities. Just a short ferry ride from the city, Isla Contadora is the crown jewel of the Pearl Islands—a dreamy little island that’s got it all: turquoise water, white sandy beaches, a touch of glamour, and even its own teeny airport.
With our Contadora Island Day Pass, you’ll enjoy a sun-soaked day on one of Panama’s most exclusive islands, complete with food, drinks, and your choice of beachy basecamp. Want laid-back local flavor? Head to Pimienta y Sal on Playa Larga. Craving a VIP-style escape? Mar y Oro on Playa Cacique has your name written all over it. Either way, this is your one-day ticket to tropical bliss—with no planning stress involved.
Hop Aboard the Fast Ferry to Paradise
The Pearl Islands archipelago is made up of over 250 islands and islets just 30 miles (48 km) off the coast of Panama City. But don't worry—you won't be paddling. We'll zip you over in comfort on a fast ferry that gets you there in about 90 minutes. These ferries are modern and comfy with indoor/outdoor seating, onboard restrooms, and snacks and drinks available for purchase.
Oh—and if you're visiting between July and October, keep your eyes peeled on the ride out. You might just get an impromptu whale-watching show from the deck. Yep, Panama is full of surprises.
Your Contadora Island Beach Break Awaits
Back in the day, Isla Contadora was a playground for the rich and famous (think Shahs, celebrities, and jet-setters). Today? It's your turn. This day pass gives you access to the pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, and chill island vibes once reserved for Panama’s elite—no yacht required.
When you arrive, you’ll be whisked away to the beach spot of your choosing:
Pimienta y Sal – Playa Larga
On the eastern coast, Playa Larga lives up to its name—over 600 meters of powdery white sand and see-through turquoise waves. This is where you’ll find Pimienta y Sal, a relaxed, no-frills beach restaurant that serves some of the freshest seafood around. It’s a local favorite for good reason—nothing fancy, just fantastic flavor and a laid-back vibe.
Mar y Oro – Playa Cacique
Looking for that picture-perfect beach you saw on Instagram? That’s Playa Cacique—a stunning, sheltered cove with calm waters you can wade into for ages. Mar y Oro is a boutique hotel on the beach offering an elegant beach club vibe, an upscale restaurant, and excellent service that’ll make you feel like a VIP (without needing a VIP budget).
No matter where you choose to kick off your flip-flops, you’ll be treated to delicious local cuisine, ocean views, and a beach break you won’t want to end. Go for a swim, explore the island on foot, or simply park yourself under an umbrella with a cold drink and a good book. (Hey, you’ve earned it.)
Contadora is one of the few inhabited islands in the Pearl Islands archipelago, so there's plenty to see if you want to wander. But if you’d rather just relax and soak in the tropical magic—that’s perfectly acceptable too.
Book Your Day Pass in Pearl Islands Paradise
Let’s be real—you came to Panama for the adventure and the relaxation, right? The Contadora Island Day Pass checks both boxes. And when you book with The Real Deal Tours, you know you’re getting the best beach day for the best price.
So what are you waiting for? Ditch the city for a day, dig your toes in the sand, and treat yourself to an island escape you’ll be bragging about long after your tan fades.
Book your discounted Contadora Island Day Pass today!
Contadora Island Day Pass at Pimienta y Sal Playa Larga Details
Pimienta y Sal Day Pass on Contadora Island Includes:
* Round trip ferry from Panama City to the Pearl Islands
* Friendly bi-lingual tour guides and staff
* Day Pass and use of facilities at Pimienta y Sal Restaurante at Playa Larga
* Delicious Panamanian lunch
* 2 Beverages
* Beach chairs & umbrellas
Departures: Departs daily at 7:30 am from the Flamenco Marina. Check-in starts at least 30 minutes prior and boat departs on time, so it is important to arrive with plenty of time to check in. Exact meeting instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher sent via email.
Length: Full day, approximately 10 hours.
Pimienta y Sal Day Pass on Contadora Island Recommendations:
* Light layered clothing & shoes for the beach
* Bathing suit and towel
* Sunglasses / sun hat
* Biodegradable sunblock or UV protective clothing
* Eco-friendly bug repellent
* Change of clothes for boat ride back
* Cash for extra food and beverages, alcoholic drinks, tips for your wait staff and boat crew
Children: All ages welcome. Children ages 5 to 11 pay a discounted rate. Children under 5 are free, but you will need to purchase food and beverages for them at the restaurant.
Restrictions: You are not allowed to bring outside food and beverages with you to the beach restaurants. If you want to explore the island, there is a small store you may visit to purchase snacks and beverages.
Insider Tip We love Contadora Island, and these beach breaks are a great way to get a taste of the Perlas without having the expense to stay out there. The beaches are great with sheltered coves. In fact Playa Cacique is where you will find all the boats tied up for the night due to the calm waters of the protected coves. Back in the day, all the whale watching trips headed to Isla Contadora because the whales seemed to congregate there. So even though this is technically not a whale watching excursion, between July and October you have a great chance of seeing whales either on the ferry trip out there, or even from your lounge chair on the beach if you are lucky!
IMPORTANT NOTICE!!! If you are not a Panamanian citizen, you MUST have your passport on you at all times in Panama.
Reserve Your Contadora Island Day Pass Pearl Islands Now
Pricing
Adult:
Retail: $135.00
The Real Deal: $132.00
Child (5-11):
Retail: $110.00
The Real Deal: $109.00
Isla Contadora + Pimienta & Sal Day Pass deposit is $10.00 per person.
(The balance of $122.00 in cash per Adult and $99.00 in cash per Child (5-11) must be paid the day of tour)
This tour departs at 7:30 AM.
Contadora Island Day Pass at Mar y Oro Playa Cacique Details
Mar y Oro Day Pass on Contadora Island Includes:
* Round trip ferry from Panama City to the Pearl Islands
* Friendly bi-lingual tour guides and staff
* Day Pass and use of facilities at Hotel Mar y Oro at Playa Cacique
* Delicious Panamanian lunch
* 2 Beverages
* Beach chairs & umbrellas
Departures: Departs daily at 7:30 am from the Flamenco Marina. Check-in starts at least 30 minutes prior and boat departs on time, so it is important to arrive with plenty of time to check in. Exact meeting instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher sent via email.
Length: Full day, approximately 10 hours.
Mar y Oro Day Pass on Contadora Island Recommendations:
* Light layered clothing & shoes for the beach
* Bathing suit and towel
* Sunglasses / sun hat
* Biodegradable sunblock or UV protective clothing
* Eco-friendly bug repellent
* Change of clothes for boat ride back
* Cash for extra food and beverages, alcoholic drinks, tips for your wait staff and boat crew
Children: All ages welcome. Children ages 5 to 11 pay a discounted rate. Children under 5 are free, but you will need to purchase food and beverages for them at the restaurant.
Restrictions: You are not allowed to bring outside food and beverages with you to the beach restaurants. If you want to explore the island, there is a small store you may visit to purchase snacks and beverages.
Insider Tip We love Contadora Island, and these beach breaks are a great way to get a taste of the Perlas without having the expense to stay out there. The beaches are great with sheltered coves. In fact, Playa Cacique is where you will find all the boats tied up for the night due to the calm waters of the protected coves. Back in the day, all the whale watching trips headed to Isla Contadora because the whales seemed to congregate there. So even though this is technically not a whale watching excursion, between July and October you have a great chance of seeing whales either on the ferry trip out there, or even from your lounge chair on the beach if you are lucky!
IMPORTANT NOTICE!!! If you are not a Panamanian citizen, you MUST have your passport on you at all times in Panama.
Reserve Your Contadora Island Day Pass Pearl Islands Now
Pricing
Adult:
Retail: $160.00
The Real Deal: $154.00
Child (5-11):
Retail: $140.00
The Real Deal: $136.00
Isla Contadora + Mar & Oro Day Pass deposit is $10.00 per person.
(The balance of $144.00 in cash per Adult and $126.00 in cash per Child (5-11) must be paid the day of tour)
This tour departs at 7:30 AM.
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