Conservation-led Adventures

Conservation At Every Turn

Conservation is woven through the fabric of Islas Secas, inseparable from our setting at the heart of the nutrient-rich Gulf of Chiriquí Marine Biological Corridor. From the very first step onto our island home, our guests are immersed in the pristine environment.

Strolling in the protected forests reveals the calls of rare birds, a boat trip becomes a thrilling Marine Safari, and spotting whale flukes plays a vital role in global citizen science projects.

Here, conservation in action underpins everything we do. In 2025, this approach evolved from commitment to measurable action, supported by island-wide sustainability training and operational systems designed to reduce environmental impact at source.

Sustainability at Islas Secas

Connected Waters, Protected Futures

Our extraordinary ocean setting is defined by the Eastern Tropical Pacific Marine Biological Corridor, a conservation zone that connects eleven protected areas, from the Manglares de David to Coiba National Park, and even linking on to the Galapagos. Islas Secas sits at the heart of it all, a vital pitstop on marine migration routes, offering guests an unparalleled, year-round opportunity to witness wildlife’s natural patterns play out.

We also support the enforcement of Executive Decree No. 2, protecting 58 nautical square miles of surrounding waters from large-scale commercial fishing.

Two large birds fly over the horizon as the sun sets at Islas Secas resort | Islas Secas

Sustainability Initiatives

On-island sustainability initiatives, including renewable energy optimisation, water independence and circular waste systems, form a core part of this stewardship approach.

Discover More

A man swims next to a turtle on a snorkelling expedition on offer to guests at Islas Secas resort | Islas Secas

A hummingbird drinks nectar from a flower at Islas Secas, one of the many protected species at the resort | Islas Secas

Stewardship in Action

The conservation team conducts hands-on protection of the surrounding reefs and marine habitats, including large-scale ghost net and longline removals, while ongoing partnerships with Panacetacea, CCIMBIO and Smithsonian researchers enables long-term monitoring of whales, coral cover, reef fish and ocean health – something that guests are encouraged to get involved with.

Two tropical birds call to each other from the branch of a tree at Isla Secas resort, a haven for local wildlife | Islas Secas

Become a
Part of It

Getting involved in the protection of our rich, biodiverse surroundings provides a deeper, more meaningful experience for our guests, always safe in the knowledge that every wildlife encounter is undertaken responsibly.

Citizen science adventures include assisting with whale monitoring, helping the study of Panama’s second-largest colony of magnificent frigates, and logging bird sightings through the eBird platform. Inviting guests to be a part of our stewardship work adds to vital scientific data repositories, which in turn inform scientists and influence large-scale conservation.

Our Impact

We’re proud of the impact our conservation efforts have had on our islands, the ocean and in the wider community. Our restored mangroves are flourishing; sea turtles are tagged with key nesting sites protected; and large-scale commercial fishing has been banned in the 56 square nautical miles surrounding our archipelago. Our stewardship work is possible thanks to the privately-funded Islas Secas Foundation, while our guests support this work simply by being here.

The Islas Secas Foundation also advances mangrove monitoring, marine research and environmental education for local students, while advocating for the long-term protection of Panama’s Pacific coastline.

Islas Secas Foundation

Partnerships with Purpose

From small details such as in-room amenities, to international conservation bodies, every facet of Islas Secas is considered with the environment in mind. The Islas Secas Foundation also supports the Panama Audubon Society’s environmental stewardship initiative, Wetlands International’s mangrove protection program, and MarViva’s marine protected area work, creating a 360-degree approach to stewardship.

These partnerships extend our impact beyond the archipelago and reinforce our commitment to ecosystem-scale conservation in Panama’s Gulf of Chiriquí.

- 100%! Our eco-resort is fully powered by renewable solar energy generated from 1,500 photovoltaic panels. Excess energy is stored in state-of-the-art battery systems to ensure reliable, clean power at all times. Backup generators are available for emergencies and are fully offset through Sustainable Travel International.
- We follow a comprehensive waste management system to minimize our environmental footprint. All solid waste is sorted, packed and sent to the mainland for responsible recycling. Food waste is dehydrated and composted, contributing to our on-island organic farm, and we are committed to eliminating single-use plastics.
- We reclaim, treat, and reuse 100% of our water for irrigation, significantly reducing our impact on the island’s groundwater supply. Our potable water system uses advanced filtration, UV treatment and activated carbon filters to ensure clean, safe drinking water for all guests.
- Our Casitas are built with certified sustainable wood and designed using minimally invasive construction techniques. They are strategically positioned to maximize natural cooling, shade and breathtaking views while minimizing environmental impact.
- Our Islas Secas Foundation (ISF) funds and collaborates with organizations dedicated to protecting marine and terrestrial ecosystems, including MarViva, Panacetacea, The Leatherback Project Panama and the Audubon Society. Our conservation initiatives focus on marine protection, whale research, sustainable fisheries, coral reef health and avian preservation.
- Beyond using 100% solar power, we offset emissions from our aircraft, boats and operations through investments in climate projects. These initiatives include reforestation, renewable energy and blue carbon solutions, all through Sustainable Travel International.
- Absolutely! We offer citizen science programs where guests can engage in coral reef monitoring, marine life censuses, whale fluke recording and guided nature walks. By participating in these activities, guests not only learn about the island’s natural beauty but also contribute to its long-term preservation.
- Yes, we collaborate with leading conservation organizations through ISF, including the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Wetlands International, and Global Fishing Watch. These partnerships support research, habitat protection, and environmental education in local communities.
- We follow strict responsible tourism practices to ensure our operations do not harm marine ecosystems. This includes eliminating single-use plastics, enforcing sustainable fishing policies and supporting scientific research to protect marine species and habitats. In addition, we regularly organize beach cleanups and conduct underwater ghost net removals, helping to reduce pollution and eliminate threats to marine wildlife.
- Yes, our potable water undergoes rigorous filtration, UV treatment and regular quality testing to ensure it is safe and pure. Freshwater is sustainably sourced from underground aquifers and carefully managed to preserve natural resources.