About Us

Where Art, Nature, and Adventure Meet

Sunrise On Dream Beach Vacation

Our Story

Originally established as PirateArts Experience, our resort has evolved into TropicalArts Resort & Studios, reflecting our commitment to providing exceptional experiences that celebrate the rich cultural and natural tapestry of the region.

TropicalArts was founded by Eric Veenstra to redefine what a vacation can be. Inspired by his lifelong passion for art and rock-and-roll, the resort blends arts, nature, and adventure into a unique island experience in Bocas del Toro, Panama.

Since opening in June 2018, we’ve welcomed guests to stay in our thoughtfully designed oceanfront vacation rentals. While our accommodations are fully ready, our artistic programs and adventure experiences continue to unfold as we expand—ensuring there’s always something new to discover.

Family mother and son is having picnic, eating on a beach. Summer vibes

Our Mission

At TropicalArts, our mission is to provide families, adventure seekers, digital nomads, and couples with a serene retreat on Isla Carenero, combining world-class hospitality with immersive artistic experiences that enable our visitors to discover new skills, create lasting memories, and develop a deep appreciation for local art and culture.

The Five Pillars of TropicalArts

At TropicalArts, our philosophy is built on five core pillars that shape everything we do:

Fully Equipped Accommodations

Our oceanfront and thoughtfully equipped vacation homes are designed to harmonize with nature, offering sustainable luxury while immersing guests in the beauty of Bocas del Toro.

Creative
Expression

Art is at the heart of our resort. From artist residencies to hands-on workshops, we provide spaces for guests to explore their creativity and connect through artistic experiences.

Adventure
and Exploration

Whether it's surfing world-class waves, snorkeling vibrant reefs, or hiking lush jungle trails, we offer unforgettable adventures that bring you closer to the raw beauty of the island.

Wellness and Connection

More than just a retreat, TropicalArts is a sanctuary for mind, body, and soul. Guests can rejuvenate with yoga, meditation, and holistic wellness experiences in a tranquil, inspiring setting.

Community and Culture

We believe in giving back. By collaborating with local artisans, businesses, and conservation efforts, we foster meaningful connections and celebrate the rich culture of Bocas del Toro.

Join the TropicalArts Community

Whether you're here to unwind, create, explore, or connect, TropicalArts offers an experience like no other. We invite you to be part of our story and discover the art of island living.

Don’t miss the latest art workshops, island adventures, and special offers.

Have Questions?

We’ve put together a Renovation FAQ to answer your questions about what’s available now, what’s changing, and how this may impact your stay.

TropicalArts remains fully open during our renovation phase, and we are working hard to minimize any inconvenience.

  • Renovations are being completed in phases, so key areas remain accessible.
  • Some light construction may take place during the day, but accommodations and experiences will not be affected.
  • We're continuing to offer a variety of activities and services as we introduce exciting new additions. Explore the options above to plan your visit accordingly!

Public beach access remains completely open and unaffected during renovations. Guests can still enjoy the same pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and island adventures as always. Paddleboarding and surfing will be running as usual.

We are taking great care to minimize noise and inconvenience.

  • Renovations are conducted during normal business hours only.
  • No construction in the early morning, evenings, or overnight.
  • Key guest areas remain peaceful and enjoyable.

While some light noise may be present near construction zones, accommodations remain unaffected.

Renovation work began in the last quarter of 2024 and is expected to be fully completed by winter 2026. We are actively collaborating with our contractor to refine the timeline and scope of work. While the full project will be completed in 2026, many exciting updates and enhancements will be ready before then, offering plenty to explore along the way, so stay tuned! Please check this site regularly for updates and announcements.

We’re excited to share updates on our transformation!

  • Visit our website’s Renovation Page [insert link] for renderings & progress updates.
  • Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes previews.
  • Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive first looks and launch announcements.