An important port during the colonial era, San Blas is now a laid-back fishing town. There are no fancy hotels here, but a few good restaurants and just enough amenities to entertain a dedicated following. One drawback to a visit is the fierce mosquitoes and jejenes; bring insect repellent and cover up during the early morning and late afternoon.

San Blas’s closest beach is Playa Borrego. You can take long walks along the often lonely beach, which terminates in an estuary after about 8 km. Las Islitas is a lovely stretch of beach punctuated by rocky coves. Lounge in a hammock or play a game of dominoes under a ramada. Sailboats cruise the bay, which is backed by jungle-clad mountains. Farther round the curve of the bay toward the small fishing village of Santa Cruz is Los Cocos Beach, shaded by palms.