A new era of Caribbean hospitality has arrived with the debut of Ordovician Beach Resort, a 47-room luxury retreat on Isla Grande within Portobelo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Overlooking Panama’s pristine northern Caribbean coast, the resort pairs refined design with environmental stewardship and a deep commitment to uplifting its surrounding communities.
Named after a geologic era known for abundance and transformation, Ordovician is redefining purpose-driven travel—offering guests an indulgent escape that directly supports local culture, economy, and progress in one of Panama’s most breathtaking yet under-the-radar regions.
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From Tech Entrepreneurs to Community Builders
Once the Bananas Village Resort, the property has been completely reimagined by Silicon Valley veterans Rick and Loan Hill. Their shift from the tech world to sustainable tourism was fueled by a desire to create lasting local impact.
“Ordovician isn’t just a resort, it’s a commitment to the people of this region,” said co-founder Loan Hill. “We’re investing in what makes this place so special—its history, talent, and beauty—and helping it thrive.”
Built post-pandemic using 95% local labor, the transformation employed over 300 workers. The resort now supports more than 100 full-time staff and is launching a foundation to fund education, infrastructure, and wellness projects in nearby communities.
A Beachfront Experience Unlike Any Other in Costa Arriba
Guests can expect experiences and amenities found nowhere else in the region:
- Private beach with calm Caribbean waters and rainforest trails.
- First overwater bungalows in Costa Arriba with direct ocean access.
- VIP transfers, including private helicopter arrivals via a new helipad.
- Curated island-hopping trips, including the San Blas Islands.
- A full rebuild prioritizing regional hiring and local craftsmanship.
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Garden-to-Table Culinary Excellence
Led by Executive Chef Stiven Hernandez, Ordovician’s dining program sources over 90% of produce from its on-site organic garden. Each venue offers a distinct flavor journey:
- The Shell Bistro – Colorful Panamanian-inspired breakfasts and lunches with a global twist.
- El Acuario – A refined fusion of Japanese, Vietnamese, Caribbean, and Panamanian cuisines.
- Rick’s Café Americain – An overwater tapas bar with inventive cocktails and breezy coastal vibes.
Wellness, Nature & Culture in Perfect Harmony
Guests can unwind with cryotherapy, overwater yoga, and spa treatments in a car-free, pollution-free sanctuary. Adventures include snorkeling mangroves, visiting historic Spanish forts, and offshore sport fishing. A luxury Dive Center opens in September 2025, offering curated warm-water dives to coral reefs, caves, and shipwrecks.
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A Catalyst for Regional Growth
Since construction began in June 2022, Ordovician has created jobs, provided training, and served thousands of meals to workers. Future plans include a school and sports complex to empower local youth.
Putting Panama’s Caribbean Coast on the Map
While Panama is renowned for its biodiversity and cultural richness, the Caribbean side—especially Costa Arriba, Colón—remains largely undiscovered. Ordovician aims to change that.
“We want travelers to say, ‘I’m going to Panama because I want to stay at Ordovician,’” said Rick Hill.
With its fusion of luxury, sustainability, and community purpose, Ordovician Beach Resort is set to become the crown jewel of Panama’s Caribbean coast—a destination where guests can connect deeply with both place and people.
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