A virtual pirate’s treasure of lush green islands, sandy shores, blue green water, and cozy covers lays only 47km (40miles) or 15 minutes by plane, from panama City. The Archipelago de Las Perlas is made up of more than 220 islands and islets, only 90 of which are named. These islands first gained notoriety in 1513 within days of Vasco Nuñez de Balboa’s discovery of the “South Sea” or Pacific Ocean. It is said that he encountered a group of Indians resplendent in pearls paddling peral encrusted boats who told him of the islands and their rich pearl beds. Although he never actually went to the islands, he named them “Islas de Las Perlas” (Pearl Islands) and claimed them for the King of Spain.
As a result of the notations in Balboa’s log and his report to the king, the archipelago was soon replete with adventurers, pirates, and plunderers in search of measure. In the centuries that followed it became a well known pirate haven not only because of its great pearls, but also because of the many back bays and hidden coves which were covered pirate hideouts. The pearl industry itself endured until 1938 when a severe red tide devastated the beds.
You can still buy pearls today, but the major attraction of this archipelago are its picturesque aqua waters, lush vegetation, fascinating marine life and lovely sparsely populated beaches.
It is the location of the 7th and 8th CBS Survivor series that aired Fall 2003 and Winter 2004. The only place in the world where two CBS Survivor series have been filmed. That should tell you something about just how special are Panama's Pearl Islands.
Some of the world’s finest pearls have come from these pristine waters, the most notable being the 31 ct. pearl, “La Peregrina”. It is one of the most celebrated and historic pearls in the world. After its discovery in the mid 16th century, “La Peregrina” was presented to King Phillip II of Spain who gave it to his wife Queen Mary I (Mary Tudor). It has also belonged to the Bonapartes of France, and the British Marquis of Abercom. It was purchased in 1969 for $37,000 by actor Richard Burton as a birthday present to his wife, Elizabeth Taylor. There are many interesting anecdotes related to “La Peregrina’s” wanderings, as over the years it has been mysteriously lost and found on several occasions.
A few years after Elizabeth Taylor acquired “La Peregrina”, she lost it. After a frantic search, the precious gem was found in her dog’s mouth.
How To Get There
Air Panama and Aeroperlas have several daily flights from Panama City's Albrook Airport. Roundtrip is about $60. There is also a ferry, but it is no less expensive.
Where To Stay
Hacienda del Mar is one of Panama's most outstanding destinations and has been featured in both Travel and Leisure and Conde Nast magazines. Located on an exclusive private island, Isla San Jose, the largest privately owned island on the Pacific Coast of the Americas with 50 private beaches with pristine waters and white sand beaches.
The setting and island scenery is some of the best anywhere and care is taken to do everything right for guests. Sportfishing, diving and snorkeling and all terrain vehicle tours and rainforest hikes are some of the activities. See their listing below.
Contadora, the most well known island in the archipelago, has an all inclusive resort The Contadora Resort and several smaller beach hotels. It is also home to the rich and famous.
Wealthy Panamanians and others including designer Oscar de la Renta have fabulous homes here and it is the place the Shah of Iran chose to live in exile after his overthrow in 1979.
What To Do
Diving
Snorkeling
Sport Fishing
Sailing
We would like to thank Panama-info and Panama-1 for their help on this blog. Please, watch the following videos and take a look at our beautiful Archipiélago de las Perlas. See you soon at EPA!
