A blowhole exists when the tide corners into a sea cave above the water, having nowhere to go but up. The cave ‘blows out’ the incoming wave with a spectacular oceanic blast. In some areas, accessing these natural wonders can require hour-long drives and pricey fees just to have a look alongside hundreds of other tourists. But on Isla Palenque, you have a front row seat to a show of your very own.
The blowhole lies at the edge of a bank on the Island’s western point, just off Playa Palenque. Getting there involves no more than a quick break from your beach towel, or perhaps your villa’s front door (some are being built right off the sand). A short climb up the hill takes you to a path between the trees. Walk straight ahead for 5 minutes and the brush opens up to an earthy clearing, the cliff clearly visible on the left. The blowhole’s earthy cry can be mistaken for nothing else.
Shoots of water make a captivating show from atop the cliff ledge. After catching a glimpse from there, climb down for a real close-up. The slope is softer than expected and easy to navigate. Those wishing to do so should have their boots ready, however, because the blowhole’s constant splashing makes the rocks quite slippery. Once you’re down, the area is relatively flat with plenty of room for a good foothold.
There we were, eye-to-eye with the blowhole. From here you can see the tide coming into the small cave opening. With the small waves comes a sputtering mist, a mere cough that warms you up for what’s coming next. You see a big wave rolling from the outer rocky curve and brace yourself. An enormous blast shoots upwards of 40 feet in the air. It hits its apex and for a split second everything freezes; you stand still in awe. Then the water sprays down, everywhere. You’re soaked. Your friends atop the cliff don’t know whether they’re happy to be dry or missing out on the experience.
The process repeats with each new set. No tour bus, no fee, no crowd, as long as you want, as often as you want. Just a walk away from the beach. A blowhole can be the focal point for an entire city. Here, it’s an extra complimentary chocolate on your pillow: yet another smile from the island experience.
TAGS: Isla Palenque Island Intern Panama
