Beaches of Panama

Fronting two oceans, Panama offers an expert's choice of beaches, both on the mainland and on islands just offshore. Both coasts have beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters, white sand, coral reefs and coconut palm trees. From small coves to miles of open beaches, from sensual sandy beaches to rugged coasts, from popular beaches to deserted beaches, there is a beach for you in Panama. With so many possibilities, in Panama the challenge is choosing which one to visit.

With the exception of Chiriqui Highland, each region in Panama includes a unique and pleasurable beach destination. Only a few minutes drive from Panama City, you can find 80 kilometers of Pacific Beaches stretching from Punta Chame to Farallon offering resort hotels, sport facilities and restaurants for your enjoyment. Sailing enthusiasts can have their fun too in those quiet waters and visit the flower-island of Taboga or the enchanting Pearl Archipelago.

Just as in any other country that has beautiful beaches, there are specific beaches for specific activities. Surfing, which is the most popular water sports in Panama, can be practiced in beaches such as Playa San Carlos, El Palmar, Rio Mar, Punta Barco, Playa Venao and Santa Catalina. Playa San Carlos is only 50 miles away from Panama City, and from that point on there is nothing but sand, sun, and waves. To swim, snorkel and dive, we recommend Contadora Island, the Caribbean cost along San Blas, or the area of Bocas del Toro. If you don't want to drive too far from Panama City, you can visit Kobbe and a few other beaches on the other side of the canal.