Carenero Island Vacations from $446

Unique stay for sure. We stayed in one of the smaller “containers”. It was fine for us, others might find it tight. The larger units looked like they had some dining area and a bit more space. A few extra hooks on the wall or in the very tiny bathroom would be nice for towels. The first floor units are great for pool side, second floor units have a porch but you have to go around the building to access your door. A few extra chairs on the first floor entry decks would be nice as we had to share. Fantastic restaurant on site, not a huge menu but we had 4 great meals. No breakfast menu but we heard from another guest it was available? The manager (Carlos) lives on site and was amazing. You do not need to kite surf to appreciate the skill and we spent hours watching the show with a front row seat. New stairs for access to the beach were being build while we were there. Be prepared for an abundance of plastic refuse brought in by the tide that lines the beach. Definitely recommend a stay here.

Easiest comparison to a 1950’s era motel on the side of an busy interstate. Still using turn key locks and chain to secure the doors. My room had evidently had to be broken into by either the police or staff as the door frame was missing a 4 inch chunk of wood where the chain connected. Sheets are obviously reused and not cleaned. Stains and hairs from previous guests evident. Stayed 4 days and maid never cleaned the room. TV cable system (TIGO) periodically flashed an automated warning that service was going to be discontinued due to account non payment. Shower has hot and cold water controls but no hot water. Toilet continuously ran water due to flapper chain getting stuck under the flapper. To operate the AC unit you either had to stand on the bed or move it 3 inches from the wall. Breakfast was eggs to order, pancakes, French toast, and a few Panamanian choices. Staff were more than friendly.