Join whale researchers on this private luxury island in Panama

This luxury private island stay in Central America is taking whale watching to a whole new level.

The only thing better than spotting humpback whales as they make their yearly migration? Doing so during a stay on a private 14-island archipelago set off Panama’s Pacific coast. Which is exactly what you can experience during the soon-to-be-launched Whale Weeks program on Islas Secas, as part of its wider Marine Safari experience for guests.

What is Islas Secas?

Panama’s Pacific coast is home to a series of gorgeous islands. (Credit: Getty/ Lars Leemann)

Located 20 miles off Panama’s Pacific coast, and on the doorstep to the region’s incredible marine environments, Islas Secas offers luxury accommodation across three properties: Casitas, Tented Casitas and Casa Cavada. The latter is the crown jewel, a four-bedroom exclusive-use super-villa perched high on the cliffs for seemingly endless views of the ocean. Not to mention it’s surrounded by tranquil rainforest. On the property itself, find a semi-Olympic-sized infinity pool, and indoor and outdoor dining areas.

Islas Secas sits within a vast marine ecosystem, boasting abundant wildlife, the largest Pacific coral reefs in Panama and two protected marine parks. This is why the property focuses on guest experiences to deepen the learning and engagement of the environment around them.

What to expect from Whale Weeks?

The resort’s marine program will focus on humpback whales in August. (Credit: Getty/ Rodrigo Cuel)

Whale Weeks will be a month-long program starting in August, designed to showcase the annual humpback whale migration. Guests will have direct access to the waters, researchers and conservation work surrounding this annual event.

Hear first-hand field stories from, and ask questions of, marine mammal scientists working for Panacetacea, who will be living on site for the entire month. Join expert-led whale-watching expeditions, take part in Whale Songs & Science sessions exploring humpback behaviour and acoustic monitoring and listen to whale vocalisations recorded through hydrophones.

Once they’ve left the water, guests can become part of the research team by uploading whale photographs to Happywhale, contributing to a global database that helps researchers and citizen scientists identify individual whales and track migration patterns.

While the focus may be on the humpbacks, guests will get a look into other underwater residents as well – including Panacetacea’s recent confirmation of a resident population of Bryde’s whales. Guests will be able to learn how scientists use field observation, drone work, acoustic monitoring and habitat mapping to understand their behaviour and distribution.

Whale Week sits within Islas Secas’ wider Marine Safari offering, which also includes snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, nature cruises, conservation talks, birdwatching and private island excursions.

The details

Outside of whale watching, join a range of ocean sports. (Credit: Getty/ AscentXmedia)

Dates: Whale Weeks run throughout the month of August, but wider Marine Safari offerings can be enjoyed year-round
Cost: Starting from $3500 per night on an all-inclusive basis, including all dining and drinks, one spa treatment per guest/per stay and a variety of activities on and off-island.
Contact: islassecas.com or call 800-377-8877.