Sam Bradley seeks out island bliss at the new owner’s villa at Panama’s stunning Islas Secas
It’s my first time steering a Seabob, and while I have very little idea what I’m doing, I’m nonetheless loving it. There’s so much to admire on this tropical island paradise, but who knew there was also plenty to explore beneath the waves? Upping the speedometer, I take a deep breath before plunging downwards, holding on tight as a whole new aquatic world opens up beneath me, complete with schools of colourful fish, multitudes of coral and even the resident local turtle.
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It’s not every day I get to whizz around like James Bond on high-tech gadgets and toys, but today is an exception. Whilst real spies probably have to keep their location top secret, I can disclose mine: Islas Secas, a luxurious lodge set amongst a secluded archipelago of 14 islands off the coast of Panama. The spoiling begins at Panama City Airport as I’m collected in the lodge’s private twin otter plane for the 45-minute scenic flight.
Landing on a small runway, nestled only amongst ocean and jungle, the setting is pure island bliss. The lodge resembles an all-age playground equipped with all the gizmos one could wish for – and wonderful instructors for each – one of which, Fabio, shows me how an e-foil, a battery-powered surfboard, works as he effortlessly and gracefully carves through the surf; it’s a slightly different story as I comically manage to wipeout in a million and one ways. Once again, I’m clueless but loving every minute.
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The activities on offer seem endless. While scuba diving off ‘La Bruja’ coral reef with divemaster Maria, we see white-tipped sharks, manta rays, turtles and fish of every shape and colour, and I’m very aware we’re only seeing one of the 21 possible dive sites. I don’t have time to try the waterskiing or wakeboarding but I do spend a morning fishing, the guides doing all the work as I reel in red snapper and dorado (which we’ll soon enjoy as a grilled lunch) as we hop from bay to bay.
At one point, we’re surrounded by a pod of dolphins as they dip and dive around our boat, and once again, I have to pinch myself to check this is real. Beny, the resident conservation manager, is always keen for a hike along the many forest trails or a boat cruise to spot the unique birdlife (especially on Isla Coco, where a huge colony of fascinating Frigate birds nest). Once whale season arrives (June to November), the many bays and inlets will be awash with calving humpbacks.
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Those who enjoy less active holidays will be just as content at Islas Secas. Scattered around the island are many hammocks, comfy loungers and even a beach swing overlooking the water, all enticing guests to slow down and unwind. Islas Secas translates as ‘dry islands’, but the name deceives as all of the islands are beautifully lush and green. Over the bay, on Pargo island, stunning sunsets await with an idyllic sandy beach, well complemented by the lodge’s pop-up kitchen, beach bar and collection of kayaks and paddleboards.
However, for pure relaxation, there’s no beating the massage treatments from the jungle spa: overlooking a hummingbird garden and surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees, the setting is matched only by the masseuses’ mastery of their craft. Thankfully, the all-inclusive nature of the lodge means guests can return each day for another treatment – an offer I gratefully accept.
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The lodgings are just as tranquil, consisting of 12 spacious and secluded villas, each with a private pool and stunning views overlooking the jungle and ocean. The newly built owner’s villa, Casa Cavada, occupies pride of place on the highest point of the island and is a beauty to behold. Sleeping up to 8 guests, the villa boasts a beautiful infinity pool as well as delightful entertainment areas. The architecture blends into the environment perfectly, with coral stone floors, towering eucalyptus trunks and frescoed lava stone ceilings, all well matched with contemporary chic interiors and furnishings. In total, a private buyout of the island can sleep up to 32 guests.
The culinary delights are just as decadent. All the food is healthy and fresh, with delicious fruits grown on the island and plentiful seafood (the calamari and ceviche alone are worth the journey). Karla the bartender loves inventing spontaneous new concoctions which always surprise and delight, and it’s very easy to pass an entire afternoon in her wonderful company.
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For those looking to elevate the experience even further, Islas Secas frequently partners with top travel company Cookson Adventures to create bespoke Panamian expeditions. “Islas Secas’ island location makes it the perfect stop-off on a Central American yachting trip,” says Kevin O Conor, head of Yachts at Cookson Adventures. “As well as ensuring total privacy and seclusion, the service levels at Islas Secas are fantastic, and we work closely with the lodge to surprise and delight guests with unforgettable immersive experiences.”
