I have been having extended stays on the island for 5 years, until finally making the decision to officially call it home.

Our local host, Ariel (Bocas Guru), will meet you on the Casa del Fuego dock upon arrival and sweep you away to the island paradise Bocas style. He will ensure that you feel comfortable, in good hands, and set up for your perfect Caribbean stay.

Commonly known as "Bocas Guru" around the island, Ariel is originally from Bocas del Toro and left the islands when he was 17 to embark on a career in the hospitality industry. He has over 25 years of industry experience spanning work on cruise ships, in food & beverage, as well as in 5* hotels, primarily based in London, where he lived for over 18 years.

Customer service and guest experience are his passion. Throughout his career, he has strived to ensure that travelers and guests have a unique and unforgettable experience tailored to their needs, wherever in the world that might be. Now he has the opportunity to do this in his home country and home community.

Bocas Guru Information: Airport pick ups/transfers from other locations can be arranged through Bocas Guru at an additional cost to the guest. Help with activity/restaurant recommendations/bookings for the guests can be provided via the Bocas Guru at an additional cost to the guest. Refer to the Bocas Guru website for details on his travel and tour guidance and services.

Isla Carenero is Bocas del Toro’s smallest main island – just under 1 square kilometer – but it has the most to offer for tourists compared to its size. There are beautiful beaches and world-class waves, lively coral reefs, lush rainforest, palm trees, turquoise waters, and awesome places to both stay and eat.

Plus, everything on the island is accessible by a short walk or $1-$2 water taxi ride to Bocas town. If you’re looking to experience an authentic Caribbean island and jump right in on Bocas del Toro’s culture, then Isla Carenero is the perfect fit!

Casa del Fuego is located on its own private beach, but nearby to all the action of food, drink, surf and water activities. You can kayak, paddle board, snorkel and swim right off of the front dock. The Caranero walking path cuts through the back yard, giving the best access to the surf, hikes, explorative walks and runs, perfect for the active traveller.

The waves on Caranero range from a gorgeous, barreling, left point break, to a mellow, very beginner friendly break that is perfect for starting your surfing career. This island truly has the best variety of surf for all levels of your group. You can choose to walk from the house to the surf, or take a short boat ride right from our dock and jump out right into the line up.

The party exists on Carenero, but is just far enough away to not be bothered by the loud music of the parties in Bocas town and on Carenero. Easy access to participate if you would like, and great location to keep your peace if you would prefer that.

Isla Carenero is a car free island. We get around by boat and walking around here! True island paradise!

You can catch boats right from the dock to go to any of the other islands, such as Bocas town, Solarte, and Bastimentos. You can also take boats to the surf. See below for estimated timing and price (per person).

Casa del Fuego-->Bocas Town: 3 minutes, $1-3
Casa del Fuego-->Solarte: 3 minutes, $1-3
Casa del Fuego-->Bastimentos: 8 minutes, $3-5
Casa del Fuego-->Red Frog: 20 minutes, $10
Casa del Fuego-->Carenero surf: 3 minutes, $1-3
Casa del Fuego-->Wizard beach surf: 15 minutes, $8-10

For everything else on the island, including restaurants, bars, nature walks, groceries, beaches and more, you can walk everywhere. Nothing is more than a short walk on the island.