Santo Island

Location: Panama, Gulf of Panama (Pacific), Perl Island Group, 500 metres (1,500 ft.) east off Isla del Rey.

Size: 19 hectares/190,000 sq.m. (47 acres)

Accessibility: Via International Airport Panama (Tocumen). From Panama (airport Punta Paitilla) 20-minute flight (scheduled airline) to resort island Contadora. From there about 30 km (18 miles) boat trip (boat rental available on Contadora).

Characteristics: This heavily wooded 1.5 km (1 mile) long and 250 m (750 ft) wide island lies like a barrier about 500 metres (1,500 ft) east alongside Isla del Rey and forms a very sheltered natural harbour with good anchorage in the immediate vicinity of the island (draft 4 fathoms - 24 ft - 7.2 m).

The island boasts a number of broad, finely-sanded beaches totalling a length of about 800 m (1/2 mile)- most of them palm fringed. Flat areas alternate with hills up to 40 metres (120 ft.) elevation. Ideal conditions for buildings with a view.

Surroundings: The Pearl Archipelago on the Pacific side of Panama is still in its pristine state except Contadora which has been developed into a full-fledged resort island with shopping facilities, hotels and private villas. Also, there are a number of hammocks on Isla del Rey and Casaya.

Prospects: The area is still not discovered by real estate sharks, so the islands could maintain their early state, but chances are that this archipelago will sooner or later be discovered by the big ones. Isla del Rey - especially the east side, because of its extensive beaches, will most likely become a hub in the future.

The owner may enjoy many activities on this island, but chief among them will be watching both palm trees and prices grow.