Ordovician Beach Resort Opens in Panama, Enhancing Local Tourism and Economy

What's Happening?

Ordovician Beach Resort has officially opened on Isla Grande, located within Panama's Portobelo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The resort features 47 rooms and is the only resort in the area with a private beach, offering overwater bungalows with direct ocean access. Previously known as Bananas Village Resort, it underwent a complete reconstruction using 95 percent local labor, employing over 300 full-time staff during construction. The resort now employs more than 100 full-time staff, many from surrounding communities. It offers curated day trips to nearby islands, a garden-to-table culinary program led by Executive Chef Stiven Hernandez, and wellness facilities including an overwater yoga studio and personalized spa treatments. A dive center is scheduled to open in September 2025, specializing in warm-water dives.

Why It's Important?

The opening of Ordovician Beach Resort is significant for the Costa Arriba region of Colón, which is less explored compared to other parts of Panama. By employing local labor and sourcing ingredients from its organic garden, the resort supports the local economy and promotes sustainable tourism. The resort's development aims to attract more travelers to the region, potentially boosting local businesses and infrastructure. Additionally, the resort plans to launch a foundation to support education, infrastructure, and wellness initiatives in nearby communities, including building a school and sports complex for youth development.

What's Next?

The resort plans to open a dive center in September 2025, offering excursions to coral reefs, caves, and historic shipwrecks. It also intends to launch a foundation to support local community initiatives, focusing on education and wellness. These efforts are expected to further enhance the region's appeal to travelers and contribute to local development. The resort's initiatives may inspire other businesses to invest in the area, potentially leading to increased tourism and economic growth.

Beyond the Headlines

The resort's emphasis on using local labor and resources highlights a growing trend in sustainable tourism, where businesses seek to minimize their environmental impact while supporting local communities. This approach not only benefits the local economy but also enhances the authenticity of the travel experience for visitors. The resort's development could serve as a model for other tourism projects in the region, promoting responsible and inclusive growth.