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Summary of reviewsPalmar Beach Lodge, situated on Bastimentos Island, offers a serene escape amidst the captivating beauty of Red Frog Beach. This idyllic location presents guests with a unique opportunity to relax among lush jungles, pristine sands, and clear waters. The lodge perfectly balances accessibility with tranquility, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers who seek a peaceful retreat.
The culinary offerings at the lodge are consistently praised for their delightful flavors and quality. The breakfast experience is noted for its tasty options, catering to various dietary preferences, while guests relish dining by the scenic beachfront. Although dinners are sometimes described as expensive, the fresh and creative menu ensures a memorable culinary adventure. The friendly staff further enhances the dining experience, providing attentive service that contributes to a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
Accommodation at Palmar Beach Lodge is recognized for its balance of comfort and natural beauty. The dormitories are lauded for their modern design and amenities, offering privacy and relaxation. Guests enjoy spacious and clean bungalows, featuring private terraces and hammocks, perfect for unwinding in the tranquil environment. Despite ongoing expansion, the lodge maintains its high standards of cleanliness and comfort, supported by diligent staff who contribute to a consistently pleasant stay.
The property's beachfront location provides immediate access to the stunning Red Frog Beach, known for its clear waters and expansive sands. While occasionally high waves may challenge swimmers, the natural beauty and wildlife encounters, including capuchin monkeys and sloths, enhance the beach's allure.
Palmar Beach Lodge also offers various activities, including daily yoga classes, beach sports, and game nights, promoting relaxation and wellness. Guests appreciate the opportunity to engage with activities in harmony with the lodge's serene setting, although the additional fee for yoga classes may surprise some.
Overall, Palmar Beach Lodge captivates guests with its blend of spectacular location, excellent culinary offerings, comfortable accommodations, and friendly service, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a memorable escape into nature's paradise. Show more
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Lodge near The Beach
This lodge is situated right on Red Frog Beach, providing guests with direct access to the beach. It offers a social atmosphere with activities like daily yoga and boat tours, perfect for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure by the sea.
Lodge Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Palmar Beach Lodge is an eco-friendly escape located near Bastimentos National Marine Park. It runs entirely on solar power and participates in bi-weekly beach cleanups. They reuse empty bottles, source food locally, and use a rain harvest system for water, with greywater used for irrigation. The lodge emphasizes environmental stewardship and connecting with nature.
Dog Friendly Lodge
Located on Red Frog Beach, this lodge offers yoga instruction and a relaxing environment for both guests and their pets. Its beachfront location is a major draw.
Small Lodge
Located on Red Frog Beach, this lodge offers beachfront accommodations and a relaxed atmosphere. The intimate setting and access to the beach make it perfect for a cozy and charming getaway.
Lodge for Yoga
Provides daily yoga classes in an open-air beachfront studio. Classes are taught by rotating world-traveling instructors, offering a unique practice location right by the sea.
Room Types
Rainforest Tent - Two Double BedsJungle glamping experience. Fall asleep to jungle sounds in our unique rainforest tents. All furniture is custom designed and hand made to fit the tent, including a large, lockable truck for valuables. Each tent has a private outdoor seating area
King JungalowUnique open-jungle cabin with two floors and outdoor bathroom. Raised above the rest of the property, the second floor offers a unique open air experience of the rainforest, while allowing the ocean breeze and sounds to soothe you to sleep.
King Beachside Bungalow with ACPalmar's finest accommodations. Spacious, comfortable, with AC and kitchenette
Rainforest Tent - QueenRomantic jungle experience for couples. Fall asleep to jungle sounds. All furniture is custom designed and hand made to fit the tent, including a large, lockable truck for valuables. Each tent has a private outdoor seating area
Beach Cabana with Ocean BreezeThe spacious double room features a private entrance, a seating area, a terrace with garden views as well as a private bathroom boasting a shower. The unit has 1 bed.
Three Bedroom Jungle Apartment with ACThis spacious apartment includes 1 living room, 3 separate bedrooms and 1 bathroom with a shower and free toiletries. In the well-fitted kitchen, guests will find a stovetop, a refrigerator, kitchenware and an oven. The air-conditioned apartment offers a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a private entrance, a tea and coffee maker, a seating area as well as garden views. The unit has 3 beds.
Beach Cabana with ACThe spacious double room offers air conditioning, a private entrance, a balcony with garden views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 1 bed.
Double Queen Bungalow with ACThe spacious quadruple room offers air conditioning, a private entrance, a balcony with garden views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 2 beds.
Bed in Premium 8-Bed Dorm with AC
8-Bed Private Room with ACThis dormitory room has a private bathroom, air conditioning and garden views. The unit has 8 beds.
Bed in 10-Bed Dorm with AC
Safari TentThe tent has garden views. The unit has 1 bed.
10-Bed Private Room with ACThe dormitory room provides air conditioning and garden views. The unit offers 10 beds.
Jungle Immersion with ACThis air-conditioned double room features a desk, a patio, garden views and a private bathroom. The unit offers 1 bed.
Rooftop Terrace Jungle Immersion with ACThe spacious double room provides air conditioning, a private entrance, a terrace with garden views as well as a private bathroom featuring a shower. The unit offers 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
8.5
Very Good
Location
Nestled on Bastimentos Island, Palmar Beach Lodge offers an exquisite location that perfectly harmonizes with nature's bounty. Situated at the stunning Red Frog Beach, the lodge is enveloped by both the inviting azure sea and the lush tropical rainforest, crafting a tranquil yet adventurous getaway. Guests are charmed by the lodge’s unique setting right on the beachfront, providing immediate access to serene sands and clear waters, while the surrounding jungle buzzes with the sounds of wildlife such as capuchin monkeys and sloths.
The lodge's prime location not only provides direct beach access but also offers a peaceful retreat away from bustling urban life, yet it's within reach for those who wish to explore more of the island. The accommodation's design allows guests to immerse themselves in the natural environment, whether it's through the beachfront bungalows or intimate jungle nooks. This secluded paradise is praised for its relaxing atmosphere and the picturesque backdrop it provides for a memorable escape, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and those seeking solitude amidst a beautiful and diverse setting.
Breakfast
Nestled in a picturesque setting, Palmar Beach Lodge offers guests a delightful breakfast experience, often praised for its excellent flavors and high-quality culinary artistry. Although the breakfast menu leans heavily on bread with limited protein, the variety and taste satisfy many guests, with options for vegan and vegetarian preferences. Guests enjoy breakfast by the sea, adding to the charm of their stay. Breakfast is generally included in the room rate, allowing guests to choose from a variety of options. The à la carte menu features top-notch cuisine, emphasizing fresh, tasty ingredients. While there are mentions of simplicity and occasional logistical chaos, the overall quality of breakfast has been described as delicious and delightful. The affordability of breakfast, despite it being excluded for some bookings, is appreciated and still leaves guests with a good impression. Beyond breakfast, the lodge's restaurant features delicious dishes, although they have been noted as somewhat pricey. The staff's friendliness enhances the breakfast experience, making it a memorable start to the day for visitors.
Dinner
Nestled in a beautiful beachfront location, Palmar Beach Lodge offers a dining experience that leaves many guests raving about its culinary delights. The restaurant is renowned for its delicious and creative food, with a menu that caters to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Guests have expressed their satisfaction with the large portions and the fresh, high-quality ingredients used in each dish, from freshly prepared tuna to delectable desserts.
Although the food is occasionally described as expensive, many guests feel it is fairly priced given the exceptional quality. The variety on offer is impressive, ensuring there's something for every palate, and the vegetarian options receive particularly high praise. The staff is generally noted for their friendly service, contributing to a positive dining atmosphere. However, diners should be prepared for potential delays during peak times, as slower service has been reported.
Despite minor criticisms about pricing and portion sizes, the overall consensus highlights the restaurant as offering abundant and tasty meals that consistently impress guests. The scenic surroundings and relaxed ambiance further enhance the dining experience at Palmar Beach Lodge, making each meal a noteworthy part of one's stay. Whether joining for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, guests can anticipate a satisfying culinary adventure amid a stunning setting.
Rooms
Palmar Beach Lodge, an idyllic retreat nestled between the jungle and the beach, offers a range of accommodations that beautifully balance comfort and nature. Guests rave about the lodge's beautiful and clean dormitories, which stand out as some of the best in Panama. Each bed in the dormitories is thoughtfully designed with curtains for privacy, windows, and ample space for belongings, ensuring a cozy nook for relaxation. Moreover, the lodgings are equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning and spacious ensuite bathrooms, making them incredibly comfortable.
The cabins are tastefully decorated and provide a serene escape with their open-air designs, allowing guests to enjoy the natural surroundings and wake to the soothing sounds of the ocean breeze. Rooms are spacious and are consistently praised for their cleanliness and comfort, offering perfect havens amidst the expansive jungle. Guests have particularly enjoyed the large bungalows that come with private terraces and hammocks, enhancing the tranquil experience.
While expansion work is underway, the lodge's facilities, including its well-equipped and secure dormitories, continue to impress visitors with a modern touch. Although the bar closes early, the laid-back vibe of the beachside location compensates, providing guests a tranquil environment to unwind.
The lodge also offers daily yoga classes and delicious dining options at its restaurant, cementing its reputation as a serene escape for travelers seeking relaxation and top-notch amenities in a stunning natural setting.
Beds
At Palmar Beach Lodge, guests have consistently praised the beds for their remarkable comfort. The accommodation provides a variety of options, from comfy dormitory beds with privacy-enhancing curtains to inviting cabins nestled among lush vegetation. Guests particularly appreciate the large, comfortable dorm beds outfitted with modern conveniences like blackout curtains, lamps, USB ports, and personal fans, ensuring a restful night's sleep.
The shared rooms not only offer air conditioning but also boast spacious beds with pleasing views, enhancing the overall experience. Glamping tents have been highlighted as particularly cozy, offering comfort alongside the unique adventure of staying so close to nature.
While some guests noted that the cleanliness of dorms could be improved due to sand accumulation, the overall comfort of the beds remains a standout feature. The lodge also provides comfortable loungers right on the beach, allowing guests to extend their relaxation from room to shore.
Cleanliness
Palmar Beach Lodge consistently impresses visitors with its stunning location nestled between rainforest and beach, offering a beautifully landscaped facility that feels both clean and comfortable. Guests frequently commend the cleanliness of the dorms, describing them as beautiful, comfortable, and modern. Rooms are generally well-maintained and cleaned daily, providing a comfortable environment supported by amenities such as air conditioning and hot water.
The property's design and decoration are widely appreciated, adding to the overall sense of a well-kept and orderly hotel atmosphere. Modern facilities like clean shared bathrooms and showers receive positive feedback, with some visitors noting them as a highlight of their stay. The lodge's common areas and beach cabañas also earn praise for being clean and aesthetically pleasing.
Despite the accolades, a few concerns around bathroom cleanliness arise occasionally, particularly with outdoor sinks attracting insects and a somewhat inconsistent cleaning service in shared spaces. Nonetheless, the diligent staff frequently maintain these areas to ensure guest satisfaction. While some travelers mention less motivated service and occasional noise disturbances, the allure of its location and tranquil environment at Palmar Beach Lodge largely prevails, making it a preferred choice for enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Staff
Palmar Beach Lodge has garnered mixed reviews regarding its staff, with a predominant lean towards positive experiences. Guests frequently highlight the staff's friendliness and approachability, with team members across the lodge demonstrating warmth and helpfulness. Many visitors appreciated the attentive and collaborative nature of the staff, noting their willingness to assist with a smile and go the extra mile to enhance the guest experience.
The restaurant and bar staff were often praised for their welcoming attitude and efforts to provide excellent service. Specific individuals, such as Francisco at reception and catering staff members Elio and Mathew, received commendations for their professionalism and kindness. Activities and services coordinated by the front desk were reportedly handled smoothly, contributing to a well-orchestrated stay.
Despite these positives, some reviews recount instances where the staff appeared overwhelmed or uninterested, leading to inconsistent service. Issues pointed at certain reception staff include a lack of charm and helpfulness, with gaps in motivation affecting the overall guest experience for a few visitors. However, these seem to be exceptions rather than the norm, as the overarching sentiment reveals a team genuinely invested in making guests feel comfortable and cared for.
Cleanliness is another noteworthy point with staff maintaining high standards, further ensuring comfort in the lodge's serene setting. While areas for improvement exist, Palmar Beach Lodge's staff plays a vital role in delivering memorable stays, marked by genuine hospitality and efforts to provide enjoyable service to their guests.
Wi-Fi
At Palmar Beach Lodge, the Wi-Fi experience varies significantly among guests. Some reports highlight a good or very good Wi-Fi connection, even given the lodge's remote location. For others, the internet was slow and sometimes intermittent, with the connection not available throughout the entire property. Reception provides Wi-Fi details upon check-in, suggesting an organized approach, although some guests noted that the Wi-Fi kept disconnecting, describing it as poor or even terrible. The diverse feedback suggests that while some might enjoy a pleasant browsing experience, others encounter challenges that could impact their stay. Guests are likely reminded that the lodge's charm lies in its natural setting rather than ultra-modern amenities.
Beach
Nestled within the lush jungle and directly on the acclaimed Red Frog Beach, Palmar Beach Lodge offers guests an immersive experience surrounded by natural beauty. The lodge's enviable location grants immediate access to a stunning stretch of sand, characterized by its pristine and expansive nature. The cleanliness of the beach complements its aesthetic appeal, enchanting visitors with super clear waters and a secluded, almost private atmosphere.
For those who relish encounters with nature, the environment around the lodge does not disappoint. Capuchin monkeys, sloths, and red frogs are frequent, nearby sights, adding to the charm of this idyllic setting. While the beach boasts its own invitingly sandy shores, the waves may occasionally be a bit strong for swimming, enriching the allure for adventurous spirits.
The resort blends seamlessly with its surroundings, set in the heart of a verdant jungle, offering guests a unique opportunity to relax in comfort amidst lavish natural beauty. The well-designed complex features comfortable accommodations, inviting facilities, and proximity to good food and friendly service, further enhancing the visitor's experience.
The Palmar Beach Lodge provides not only direct access to a dreamlike beach but also an unforgettable retreat into a beautifully preserved corner of nature’s paradise.
Yoga
Nestled in a serene setting by the water, Palmar Beach Lodge offers an array of activities that promise to rejuvenate the body and mind. Among these, the yoga facilities stand out, with classes held daily in a dedicated yoga studio. The opportunity to practice yoga by the beachside is described as a breathtaking experience. Many guests appreciate the lodge's focus on wellness, enjoying yoga as a part of their daily activities alongside other options like beach volleyball, walks, and game nights. The property also features a yoga house, contributing to its peaceful ambiance. However, it's worth noting that yoga classes incur an additional fee despite some previous indications of them being complimentary. Nonetheless, for visitors seeking relaxation, the yoga sessions are highly recommended and form a perfect accompaniment to the lodge's diverse evening activities, such as live music and movie nights.
No, Palmar Beach Lodge doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Palmar Beach Lodge.
Yes, Palmar Beach Lodge welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Palmar Beach Lodge.