Palmar Beach Lodge

Truly a jungle island paradise! Totally agree with what everyone else said about this island being a secret escape! You get off the boat dock and walk 10 minutes through the lush jungle (we even saw a sloth), finally opening up to the gorgeous Red Frog Beach which is clean and stunning. A welcome discovery following the hustle of the main island. I stayed 3 nights in the dorm room and even though it’s tucked back in the trees you can still hear the ocean at night. Large comfortable beds, personal light/fan/plug, large lockers. Felt more like a resort with hostel prices! Yoga every morning on a platform next to the ocean. Free coffee for all the guests Hot outdoor showers, nice facilities (even providing eco-friendly shampoo), beautiful and well-kept landscaping All of the staff and volunteers are super friendly, welcoming and laid-back. You can hang in a hammock, play on the slack line, or chill on one of the many lounge chairs on the beach. All of the tents and other accommodation are in the jungle but you walk out and have breakfast on the beach. Very spacious and spread out. Can chill or be social. There is a pool table and library above reception. They organize free evening activities for the guests if you want to partake. **My only complaint is that the food is a bit overpriced and the portions are small for what you get (apart from the breakfast - that was amazing. Also try the coconut shrimp). Also not a whole lot of gluten-friendly options for lunch or dinner. No kitchen for guests but that’s to be expected on Bastimentos. The entire lodge is very beautiful! I only wish I had stayed longer!

We stayed at Palmar for a few nights, in late December, and the experience was amazing! We stayed in the Jungalo (only one on the property) and loved it. The Jungalo is a 2 story cottage. The downstairs has a bathroom emersed in the jungle-- yes, you are outside, a bunk bed and an L shaped benches/couch. Upstairs there is an open-air room with a queen bed. The Jungalo was incredible, absolutely magical. There is no AC, but you really didn't need it, it really cools down in the evenings. There was construction happening right next to it, which was not ideal. Ricardo, though, was what really made the place absolutely magical! He is a great help, and truly knowledgeable. When the other staff wasn't sure how to accommodate my gluten allergy he truly came to the rescue. He really went above and beyond. Truthfully, we became good friends by the end of our stay and he is what made the Palmar portion of our journey! Even if we hadn't become friends, he is by far the most helpful, knowledgeable and accommodating staff member!