Contadora has nine named beaches, and you can walk between most of them in an hour. The island's position in the Gulf of Panama gives it calmer water on its eastern side — ideal for swimming and snorkelling — and more exposed, windswept strands on the west. Playa Larga is the island's longest and most scenic beach. Playa de las Suecas is clothing-optional and tends to be quieter. Playa Cacique fronts the main hotel area and is the most accessible from the airstrip.