This wildlife refuge encompasses a beach as while as flaming magnesium, mangrove and tropical dry forest habitats that are roosts for a miscellany of seabirds, and coral reefs renowned for fabulous snorkelling and diving.

Created in 1981, Iguana Island Wildlife Refuge protects 53 hectares of terrestrial and ocean realm that includes exotic fruit trees – the legacy of a self-styled Robinson Crusoe who briefly claimed the isle as his own in the 1960s.

The islet, 4.3 kilometres offshore from Playa El Bajadero, is home to the largest nesting colony of magnificent frigate birds in Panama. During the midwinter mating season, males sit atop their nests, wings extended, puffing up their credentials as mates and ululating loudly as the white-throated females fly overhead.

The twenty minute boat ride puts you ashore on gorgeous Playa El Cirial, where you are greeted by swarms of tiny hermit crabs. The beach has a ranger station and tiny visitor centre. A nature trail connects El Cirial with Playa El Faro, framed by rugged black rocks topped by a lighthouse.