Bocas del Toro Historical Museum - Hou Wang

The Bocas Historical Museum focuses on the cultural and historical development of Bocas del Toro. Its permanent exhibition presents the history of the province from the Columbian period to the republican era, highlighting the contributions of the different communities that shaped the region’s social, economic, and cultural identity.

One of the museum’s most distinctive elements is the Hou Wang altar, considered one of the oldest surviving testimonies of Chinese presence in Bocas del Toro. The altar was brought from Kowloon, China, in the early twentieth century and has been preserved for more than a century by the Chinese community of Isla Colón. This gives the museum a very tangible and memorable focal point beyond a typical historical exhibition.

In addition to its permanent displays, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, audiovisual screenings, and cultural events, giving it an active role in the local cultural scene and connecting it closely to the identity of Bocas del Toro.

The museum is not very large, so it does not require half a day to explore. However, it is well worth a visit for anyone interested in understanding how migration, trade, and cultural exchange shaped Bocas del Toro over time. It works especially well on a rainy afternoon or as a short cultural stop while staying in Bocas Town.

Cowork

For digital nomads and remote workers, the museum also offers a coworking space with a sea view.

Designed for modern professionals, entrepreneurs, and small teams, the workspace combines flexibility, productivity, and inspiration. Whether you need a quiet place to focus or a more professional working environment, the space provides both.

What is offered

• High-speed internet

• Flexible workspace with air conditioning

• Meeting and conference rooms

• Multifunction printer

• Panamanian coffee

• Free water

Hours

Tuesday – Sunday | 11:00 AM – 08:00 PM

Rates

• $10 per hour

• $30 per day

• $100 per month

Ask on site about available plans and workspace options.