Top 10 Travel Hacks for Visiting San Blas Islands

The San Blas Islands are one of the Caribbean’s most breathtaking destinations, offering pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and a unique cultural experience with the Guna people. To make the most of your journey, we’ve compiled top hacks for visiting San Blas that ensure a smooth, immersive, and unforgettable adventure.

San Blas is not only a cultural gem—it’s also one of the best sailing locations in the Caribbean, perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re planning an unforgettable catamaran getaway or an off-the-grid sailing adventure, these tips will help you make every moment count.

Pristine white sand beaches, swaying palms, and turquoise waters make this island paradise perfect for a catamaran getaway.

Essential Tips: Top 10 Travel Hacks for Visiting the San Blas Islands

1. Travel Light, Pack Smart

When visiting San Blas, less is more. Light clothing, swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, flip-flops, and a good book are often all you need for ultimate comfort and freedom. Traveling light makes it easier to explore the islands during your yacht charter Caribbean experience.

Guests savor the freedom of a secluded San Blas paradise—travel light to fully experience its pristine white sands and sparkling turquoise waters.

2. Bring Cash for Island Life

Carry around $20-50/guest/day in small bills for tips, souvenirs and drinks ashore. Some islands have a fee to visit which you must cover if you chose a standard catamaran. Island fees are covered on our premium catamarans, the Lagoon 52, Lagoon 42, Lagoon 450 and Salina 48. . Credit cards are not accepted in San Blas—there are no banks or ATMs, and neither catamarans nor the limited onshore bars have card terminals. Cash is essential once you’re on the islands.

3. Prepare for Road Transfers (if this is your method of reaching the catamaran)

Pack mosquito repellent for the port, a raincoat for water taxi rides where sea spray is common, and a protective cover to keep your luggage dry during transfers. Small precautions go a long way in keeping your trip smooth.

4. Make the Most of Air Transfers (if this is your method of reaching the catamaran)

Arrive at the airport at least 30 minutes before departure. Additionally, keep your phone or camera handy—flying over San Blas offers some of the most stunning aerial views in the Caribbean.

Arriving in San Blas by air offers breathtaking views.

5. Share Your Food Preferences

Let us know your dietary needs ahead of time. Whether keto, vegan, raw, allergy-sensitive, or picky eaters on board, we’ll adapt. Just note your preferences in the pre-charter form, and we’ll take care of the rest.

6. Learn About Guna Yala

Familiarize yourself with the history, customs, and traditions of the Guna people. Understanding their culture will enrich your experience, show respect, and help you connect more deeply with the local way of life.

7. Learn Basic Guna Phrases

Even a few words in Dulegaya, the Guna language, go a long way. Following simple guidelines, like greeting locals or saying thank you, not only shows respect but can also open doors and make your interactions more meaningful.

• Anna | ¡naa! – Hello

• Nued / Nuedi | yeerba – Excellent, good; thank you; kindly

• Aya | ai – Friend

• Yeer / yeerba – Good, beautiful, enough

8. Stay at Least 5 Nights

A stay of 5 nights or more allows you to explore deeper, uncover hidden gems, and fully absorb the untouched magic of San Blas. Highlights like the legendary Dutch Cays are best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, without feeling rushed.

9. Avoid the Islands Near the Road Entrance

Islands close to the road entrance are crowded with day tourists and locals, often with loud music. For a more authentic experience, head to Zone 2—the eastern archipelago with hundreds of smaller islands, including Coco Bandero Cays and the Cambombia area, home to Bapurgana Island. For the ultimate escape, sail to BBQ Island and The Pool in the Dutch Cays—true “Paradise within Paradise".

Bapurgana Island—one of our favorites, featured in our exclusive sailing itineraries for a truly unforgettable experience.

10. Embrace the Moment

The sooner you let go, the deeper you’ll immerse yourself in the wonders of your journey. Feel the heartbeat of this pristine, ancestral land, and surrender to the true essence of paradise.

Making the Most of Your San Blas Adventure

San Blas is a journey into a pristine, ancestral paradise. By following these travel hacks, you’ll navigate the islands smoothly, connect meaningfully with the Guna culture, and make the most of every moment on board your private yacht charter.

Our carefully designed sailing itineraries showcase the best of San Blas, and our modern catamaran fleet ensures comfort, safety, and style throughout your journey.

From traveling light and planning ahead to discovering hidden gems and embracing local customs, these tips ensure your experience is seamless, immersive, and truly unforgettable.

The San Blas Islands aren’t just a place to visit—they’re a place to feel, explore, and remember, with every island, cove, and lagoon enhanced by the luxury and flexibility of our catamaran adventures.