14 Coastal Towns That Feel Like a Slice of the Mediterranean

6. Bocas del Toro, Panama – A Bohemian Coastal Haven

Bocas del Toro, an archipelago of colorful Caribbean towns, exudes a unique Mediterranean-meets-Central-American charm. Nestled on Panama’s Caribbean coast, Bocas Town—the main hub of the archipelago—feels like a cross between a laid-back Greek island and a tropical Venice, where stilted waterfront houses rise above the crystal-clear sea. The town’s wooden boardwalks, pastel-hued buildings, and bohemian atmosphere bring to mind the coastal villages of Ibiza or Formentera, but with a distinctly Caribbean twist. Wander through Bocas Town's vibrant streets, and you’ll find cafés spilling out onto the sidewalks, fresh seafood shacks grilling lobster and red snapper, and bustling market stalls selling handcrafted jewelry and textiles. As the sun sets, the island comes alive with music, with reggae beats blending with Latin rhythms, much like the lively summer nights of Mykonos or Santorini. For those looking for adventure, the nearby deserted islands, coral reefs, and palm-fringed beaches provide endless opportunities for snorkeling, surfing, and sailing. Whether you’re sipping a coconut cocktail at a waterfront bar, exploring hidden lagoons, or dancing under the stars, Bocas del Toro offers the same free-spirited, sun-drenched energy of the Mediterranean’s most beloved coastal retreats—but at a fraction of the cost.