Play to live san blas — Hotel in Guna Yala

If you’re looking for the perfect boat to explore the San Blas Islands, stop searching — this is it.

Sailing with Paul and Daniela aboard Play to Live was the kind of experience you dream about — the kind of trip you’ll talk about for the rest of your life. If we could give them a thousand stars, we absolutely would.

From the moment we stepped on board, Paul and Daniela made us feel completely welcome. They’re more than just hosts — they’re warm, funny, generous, and passionate about what they do. They made sure every moment felt special and personal. The food was simply unforgettable. Daniela prepared delicious meals every day — from fresh pasta and handmade pizza to salads and more. Every dish was full of flavor and made with love. We didn’t just eat — we devoured everything she made. Not a single bite was left behind!And Paul? He made the most incredible pancakes. One morning, we sat with coffee in hand, a palm-covered island in the background, eating Paul’s pancakes — and honestly, we had tears in our eyes. It was that beautiful.

Paul is an incredible captain — experienced, calm, and full of knowledge about both sailing and the San Blas region. We felt safe and completely at ease every step of the way. Together with Daniela, they took us to quiet, untouched islands that most tourists never get to see — no crowds, no buildings, just pure natural beauty. Along the way, they shared stories about the Kuna people and their way of life, as well as their own sailing adventures, which made every stop even more meaningful.

We snorkeled over amazing coral reefs, swam with stingrays, played with starfish, and even learned some basic sailing skills — how to tie ropes, set the sails, and understand the wind. In the evenings, we sat under a sky filled with thousands of stars, with nothing but the sound of the sea and moonlight all around us.

Being the only guests on board made it feel like a completely private experience. Paul and Daniela tailored the trip to us, making sure we had the best time — even when we found ourselves dancing around on the boat in pure joy.

If you want to disconnect, experience real nature, eat amazing food, and be guided by two genuinely wonderful people, Play to Live is the perfect choice. The San Blas Islands are a hidden gem, and this is, without a doubt, the best way to...

Our stay aboard Play to Live in the breathtaking San Blas Islands was nothing short of extraordinary! From the moment we arrived, our hosts, Paul and Daniella, made us feel welcome, comfortable, and completely at home on their beautiful boat. Waking up each morning to the gentle sway of the sea, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the sounds of nature was an experience like no other. The boat itself was well-maintained, cozy, and had everything we needed for a perfect getaway. But what truly made our stay special was the warmth and hospitality of our hosts. They went above and beyond to ensure we had an incredible time, sharing their knowledge of the islands, preparing delicious fresh meals, and taking us to some of the most stunning, secluded spots we’ve ever seen. What made this trip even more special was how amazing Paul and Daniella were with our kids. They were incredibly kind, patient, and engaging, making sure our little ones had just as much fun as we did. Whether it was teaching them about the Kuna, helping them snorkel, or simply making them feel included in every adventure, they created an experience that our whole family will cherish forever. Snorkelling the coral reefs, lounging on pristine beaches, and watching the stars from the deck each evening felt like a dream. This was not just a vacation—it was an adventure filled with connection, relaxation, and natural beauty. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in paradise, especially as a family, look no further. We cannot recommend this stay enough, and we can’t...

Our experience with Pay to Live San Blas was unforgettable. Paul and Daniela are wonderful hosts: warm, down-to-earth, and inextricably linked to San Blas. They were so open, sensitive, and respectful to the Kuna people, and they shared that awareness with us. Their guidance enabled us to immerse ourselves more meaningfully in this part of the world, which added so much to the overall experience.

Their hospitality struck a nice balance: We could be as hands-on or as relaxed as we wanted, and they were always patient and generous with their time—especially when teaching us to sail. The sailing, on top of that, had been exhilarating: full wind in the sails, the boat flying across crystal-clear waters. If you want to refresh your sailing skills, Paul is an excellent teacher. If you want to connect with nature and people, you’re going to love San Blas.

The food was phenomenal—fresh, flavorful, and prepared with care about safety and comfort every bit of the way. We had four fantastic nights on board—one near Mirladub, one near Banedub (both offering great snorkeling and brilliant coral reefs), and a beautiful afternoon at Waisaladup, where we experienced the most magnificent reef.

What made the trip even better were the stories that Paul and Daniela told us about the region, the culture, and the islands themselves. Their deep knowledge and love for San Blas brought everything to life in a way that welcomed us in and connected us.

We only wish we’d stayed at least five nights, though perhaps that’s the best...