Contadora Island (Isla Contadora as it is known in Spanish), one of the many islands that make up Panama's Pearl Islands, is situated approximately 40 miles off the country's Pacific coast. These small islands are some of the regions finest, and can be compared to many of those in the Bocas del Toro or San Blas regions. Contadora Island is one of the most northern of the Pearl Islands, and has it's own airport runway, as does Isla del Rey which is much larger and futher south. The island has numerous private homes, and acts as a refuge for many of Panama's most weathly families. Dotted along the coastline are huge single family homes, many with private docks, sailboats and pools. The road network on the island is in great shape, and virtually every corner of the island can be visited. While there are cars and pick-ups on the island, transportation is normally limited to golf carts, which can be rented by the hour.<br> There are several public and private beaches on the island, however, the most frequently visited public beach lies just in front of the Hotel Punta Galeon Resort. It's a white sand beach and sits deep inside a relatively well protected cove. Surprisingly enough, Panama's only nude beach is found on Contadora Island, on it's southern side.<br> The waters surrounding Contadora Island are typically warm, turquoise colored, and ideal for swimming or snorkeling. Scuba diving, jet skiing, sportfishing and boat tours are also available through the hotel; these services are also available for those just visiting the island on a day trip.