The Pearl Islands Archipelago has been the subject of recent studies to evaluate the richness and biodiversity of its marine resources. Reports have shown that marine environments and species are in a threatened state unless law implements an appropriate management of the area. The human population that lives in these islands is dedicated mostly to artisanal fisheries, but different reasons can be attributed to the decrease of the resources. A socio-ecological survey was conducted to understand the needs and attitudes of the local community towards the creation of a Marine Protected Area. As opposed to other studies, 92.5% of the surveyed population agreed that a management zone would bring benefits, 82.1% were concerned that the marine resources are becoming scarce and that the area needs a better management of the resources. The positive attitude of the fishermen from the nine communities proves that initial participation of local residents is the most important step for implementing new Marine Protected Area. Nevertheless, alternatives should be provided to residents, such as an organized tourism (e.g. whale watching), in which they are fully involved to compensate for fishing regulations. The results of this survey have been pivotal for the designation of the 160,167 hectares MPA and the conservation of the marine resources of Panama.