Review: Islas Secas

Set the scene.
The private-island hotel has been dialed way up. This takes over an entire archipelago, 20 miles off Panama's west coast. And on a palapa-covered dock, in a secluded bay, gracious staff members await with ice-cold drinks. The mood is eco-conscious and very intimate—the entire place sleeps just 18.

What's the story?
Billionaire owner Louis Bacon is an environmental philanthropist, so it’s all about conservation. Of the archipelago’s 14 islands, 13 will remain undeveloped. A series of breezy pavilions and casitas—with one, two or four bedrooms—were designed by architect Tom Scheerer, a master of low-key coastal elegance; and the entire place is run on solar energy.

What can we expect in our room?
Knockout views of the ocean, private terraces and indoor-outdoor showers—the largest rooms have private pools. Canopy beds are done up in crisp white sheets, and there are plenty of comfy chairs, inside and out, in which to sprawl with a book. There’s no TV on the island, but wifi is robust.

How about the food and drink?
Terrazza serves classic beach food—fresh, local, healthy and simple. Lots of fish, crisp veggies and tropical fruit. At the Hemingway-inspired bar you can try local rums – go for it, all food and drink is included—and hole up in the games nook for a game of backgammon.

Anything to say about the service?
Impeccable: smooth, courteous, discreet and efficient. Particularly impressive when the staff take you out on a fishing trip, or to visit an undeveloped island, and ensure you have everything you need: a bottle of Pellegrino, a glass of wine, a fresh beach towel, just the right amount of shade. They're all passionate environmentalists who know the history and ecology of the place and seem genuinely excited to share it with guests.

Who comes here?
Couples who love adventure as long as it’s air-conditioned; low-key young families who want to speed around on boats all day and have total silence at night.

What's in the neighborhood?
You're surrounded by the deep blue Pacific. Days are spent hanging out on the beach, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, or taking a boat out to Coiba National Park for diving and snorkeling.

Anything else we should know?
The Gulf of Chiriqui is known for its fishing, so make time for at least one day out on the water with an expert guide; and another playing castaway on a deserted islet—with snorkeling gear and a well-stocked picnic.

Anything missing?
No TV, which might bother some—but others dig the unplugged, escape-from-the-real-world vibe.

Is it worth it—and why?
Absolutely. It's a rare combination of total privacy, complete luxury, real adventure, and untouched nature that really will stay that way forever. Easy to feel as if you’re the eco-conscious billionaire who owns the place.