A Luxury Travel Expert Experiences Islas Secas
T The head of invite-only luxury travel company Scott Dunn Private recently visited Islas Secas. Here’s what she had to say (spoiler: it’s quite something)…
Out of This World
How do you describe somewhere that genuinely feels a little out of this world?
I am always on the lookout for a true Robinson Crusoe-style island but it has to come with wonderful accommodation, excellent food, brilliant service and, above all, plenty to do. Most people think they want to “switch off” on a desert island, but after two days with very little stimulation, cabin fever can creep in. The magic is finding somewhere wild and remote that still keeps you inspired.
For me, that place is Islas Secas.
What makes it even better is pairing it with time in Panama City, which completely surprised me. Learning about the sheer determination and extraordinary timeline behind the construction of the Panama Canal is fascinating, and wandering the old town (Casco Viejo) gives you a real sense of history layered with modern energy. We stayed at Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo which is full of old-world charm, with beautiful water views. It was the perfect contrast to what was to come.
Arriving is an Adventure in Itself
We took their private plane from Panama City and landed directly on the island, skimming over the Pacific like a dragonfly. The colours from the air are extraordinary, shifting blues and greens scattered across the archipelago. Islas Secas itself is part of a private cluster of 14 islands, which immediately makes you feel as though you’ve stumbled upon something secret. Islas Cavada is the only inhabited island in the group where this beautiful property is located.
Adventure on Tap
One of the outer islands was the setting for the most fabulous beach picnic, and that’s just one example of how much there is to do. This is not a “sit still and stare at the horizon” sort of place unless you want it to be. Then it is perfect!
Their Marine Safari is exceptional, heading out on one of the private yachts with Beny Wilson, their Conservation Director, who is a walking encyclopaedia of marine and bird life (and quite possibly one of the most enthusiastic twitchers I’ve ever met). The birdlife is sensational. Beyond that, you can seabob, e-foil, fish, kayak, scuba dive, snorkel, or spend time at the activity centre arranging whatever adventure takes your fancy.
Wellbeing and Dining
And then you recover. The Seascent Spa is charming, with two excellent massage therapists. There are hikes across the island, more beach picnics to secret corners, lazy yacht days sipping rosé, and afternoons at the pontoon photographing friends attempting various water sports. Morning yoga at the Mango Pool is a joy, peaceful but energising, surrounded by jungle and sea.
Dining is another highlight. They will prepare whatever you fancy, but the emphasis is on incredibly fresh, largely locally-sourced ingredients. If you catch a permitted fish, they’ll cook it for you, or serve as ceviche or sushi, which always adds a little theatre to supper. Evenings often end at the Bar, where the team hosts informal talks about sustainability, conservation, and the island’s foundation, giving real depth to what they’re doing here environmentally. Or of course lively chatter around who did what that day!
Accommodation varies beautifully
The Casitas higher up require a slightly longer walk, but they have the most wonderful “Out of Africa” feel – canvas, outdoor bathrooms, deep baths on the terrace, sweeping views, yet still with proper comforts, including air conditioning. Other Casitas range from one to four bedrooms, complete with private pools, ideal for couples, families or friends travelling together.
For the ultimate treat try Casa Cavada, a four-bedroom masterpiece with an infinity pool, garden, gym, endless areas to escape and relax, three dining areas and a bar, and views to simply die for, perfect for a full buyout of the island. The sunset moment over the ocean is truly spectacular.
It is a very special place. Perfect at the end of a Costa Rica or Colombia trip or simply paired with a few nights in Panama City before disappearing entirely. Turquoise water, dense jungle, extraordinary birdlife, flowers everywhere, and a genuinely fantastic team, led by Antonio and Celianis, who make it all feel effortless.
It’s wild, but polished. Remote, but never dull. And that’s a very rare combination indeed.
