The hype
Beautiful overwater bungalows and clear water, but the service has collapsed and the bugs are eating people alive.
Azul Paradise
$350-550/ night
Book this if You are a gambler willing to risk a booking for a remote overwater bungalow experience that might not exist when you arrive.
Why People Love It
- Glass floors in bungalows for watching sea life
- Total isolation from the party noise of Bocas Town
- Direct jump-in-the-water access from your deck
Quick Take: A once-idyllic eco-resort currently plagued by reports of management takeovers, ghosted communications, and last-minute cancellations.
Reviewed by @cherryberrychiller: I booked this spot for a birthday trip and it honestly felt like the Maldives without the long flight. Waking up over the water and seeing dolphins from the boat was unforgettable. Highly recommend for a romantic escape.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You are trapped on the island. If the boat schedule doesn't work for you, you pay $150 for a private water taxi. If the food is bad (and it's often described as 'slow' and 'okay'), you have no other options.
- You want to disconnect completely (forced digital detox)
- You are okay with rustic eco-living (limited water/power)
- You have travel insurance that covers insolvency or scams
Cleanliness & Maintenance
5.5
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Some guests report daily cleaning, others say they were skipped.
- Bathroom hygiene: Eco-plumbing means 'bin the paper.' Showers often have low pressure or leaks.
- Maintenance: Showing age. Peeling paint, worn wood, and broken deck chairs are common complaints.
- Linens & towels: Often feel damp due to humidity; check for stains upon arrival.
- Odors & scents: Salty sea air mixed with occasional septic smells if the wind is wrong.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Waves crashing under the floor (loud during storms)
- Rain on the tin roof
- Neighbors walking on connected wooden boardwalks
Before you book
Good to know
- Boat transfer is ONLY included if you stay 3+ nights (and even then, confirm it)
- Private water taxi if you miss the shuttle is ~$150 USD
- There is no ATM on the island; bring cash for tips and extras
What to pack
- Picaridin insect repellent (DEET doesn't work on sand flies)
- Baby oil (locals use it to trap sand flies)
- Flashlight/Headlamp (walkways are dark at night)
- Snacks (restaurant is the only food source and closes early)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Deluxe Bungalows #6 and #7 (end of the pier, most privacy, 180-degree views)
- Bungalows with sunset views for better breeze
Rooms to avoid
- Economy bungalows (often lack the direct water access or view)
- Bungalows closest to the restaurant/kitchen (noise and smells)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting Deluxe Bungalow #6 or #7 for the 180-degree view and privacy. If those are unavailable, please ensure I am not placed in a unit adjacent to the main walkway or restaurant.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the resort actually open?
Status is shaky. Reports from mid-2025 suggest 'closed by government' or 'management takeover.' Verify via a live phone call before booking.
Does the AC work all day?
No. AC is strictly limited to 8:00 PM - 9:00 AM due to solar power restrictions.
Are the bugs really that bad?
Yes. Reviews consistently mention 'waking up covered in bites.' It is a mangrove area; sand flies are endemic.
Can I get food elsewhere?
No. You are on a remote part of Bastimentos. The nearest restaurant requires a boat ride.
Is there WiFi?
Yes, but it is spotty, slow, and often goes down with the power.
How do I get there?
Fly to Bocas Town (BOC), then take the resort's scheduled boat (12:30 PM or 6:00 PM). Do not miss it.
Insider Tips
- ✨
If you miss the 6:00 PM boat, you are stuck in Bocas Town or paying a fortune for a private captain.
- ✨
The 'glass floor' is often just a small viewing panel, not the whole floor.
- ✨
Bring a portable battery pack; power cuts are frequent.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'beach' is often full of sea grass and debris; the best swimming is off the deck.
💡You cannot flush toilet paper; it goes in a bin next to the toilet.
💡The shower pressure is often a trickle due to rain-catchment systems.
💡Staff turnover is high, leading to inconsistent service standards.
💡The 'all-inclusive' meal plan is widely considered poor value compared to paying à la carte.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Azul Paradise is located and what's nearby.