Panama: a natural paradise of beaches

by | 3:08 pm | Panama, Travel

The 9 best beaches in Panama and what to do around

In Panama, it is very easy to find beaches like those drawn in a paradise. Both the Pacific and the Caribbean have white sand beaches, mangroves with beautiful ecosystems. Excellent to practice ecological tourism and explore.

We mention the 10 beaches, that while visiting Panama, you can’t miss:

Santa Catalina Beach 

Located on the Pacific coast of the province of Veraguas, specifically in Soná; a spectacular place with sunsets and unimaginable landscapes.

The perfect destination for those who are addicted to surfing, its waves usually reach two meters high. However, you can find a quieter place because the beach is located near the Santa Catalina River. 

During the day the seaside is the place where you should relax and forget everything that can stress you out. Activities such as paddle or kayaks are usually practiced by locals and foreigners.

Cayo Zapatillas

Located at the east of Bastimentos Island in the province of Bocas del Toro. It is part of a group of two islands surrounded by a spectacular coral reef, which in turn is located within the Bastimentos Island National Marine Park.

Its white sand and crystal clear waters are perfect for fishing and diving. From March to September, you can also observe the migration of turtles that lay their eggs. Its mangroves with palm trees around them are cataloged as a biodiversity paradise. 

The temperature and climate of the Caribbean are stable throughout the year, but there are times when there are intense peaks of rain. The season from December to May is perfect for visiting this paradise. 

Coiba Island Beach 

It is home to the largest coral reef in the Eastern Pacific, located in the district of Montijo in the province of Veraguas and part of the Marine Park of the same name. In 2008 it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is one of the ideal sites for ecological tourism, 80% of its forests are original and you can observe abundant flora and fauna on land and in the sea. 

More than 40 marine species among dolphins and whales as well as birds have been seen in its islands. Without a doubt a destination not to be missed by nature lovers. 

Las Perlas Archipelago

Located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, it is the second-largest island in the country. Its proximity to Panama City makes it the perfect escape for those looking for a day of rest and disconnect.

Its name comes from the abundance of pearls that existed in the area during the Spanish rule. The beauty of its islands attracts those who enjoy activities such as fishing, hiking, diving, and kayaking.

The archipelago is made up of a group of islands and islets that always have the perfect climate and temperature to be your next destination to visit. Among them are Contadora Island, San Jose Island, King Island, and Pedro Gonzalez Island. 

 Beaches of the Guna Yala Archipelago

Visiting Guna Yala is like going back in time. The islands are inhabited by the indigenous Guna who welcome visitors. The archipelago is made up of 365 paradisiacal islands with high palm trees, turquoise, and crystal-clear waters. 

Its most visited islands are Isla Aguja, Isla Perro Chico, Isla Fragata, Isla Chicheme, and Isla Diablo. All of them are full of natural and cultural attractions.

Among the most popular activities in Guna Yala are snorkeling, shopping for crafts, visit the wreck of the Isla Perro Chico and Volleyball. 

Guna Yala is undoubtedly the favorite destination for visitors to Panama. 

Playa Blanca 

Located on the coast of the western area of the country, specifically in the province of Cocle. This destination has one of the best tropical climates for you to relax. Its extensive coast extends from Punta Chame to Farallón. 

This beach is one of the most complete in terms of hotels in the region since it has resorts such as Royal Decameron, Costa Blanca Villas, Playa Blanca, Riu Playa Blanca, Sheraton Bijao and JW Marriot Golf & Beach, among others.

For those who prefer adventure activities, on this beach, you can also do snorkeling, windsurfing, kayaking, other water activities or even visit the volcanic rock crag which has been converted into a refuge for varied fauna.  

Mamey Island

This crystal-clear water jewel is located on the coast of the province of Colon, one of the regions with the most history in the country. This place is located a few minutes away from the city, which makes it easy to access.

On the way to the island, you will pass through the tunnel of love, a path through the mangroves. Its waters are very calm, forming what many call “natural pool”, which allows activities such as picnics, barbecues, and even camping. 

Inside Mamey you can do activities such as swimming in the large natural pool, ecological hiking, surfing (only in the west), diving and even playing football as its grass is ideal for this sport. 

Iguana Island in the Azuero Peninsula

It is located on the Pacific coast in the south of the Azuero Peninsula, in the province of Los Santos. It contains two white sand beaches that are unique in the Pacific due to their tranquility.

This island is the product of numerous underwater volcanic eruptions, which is the reason for its flat surface and unique geography.

The beaches of this island are perfect for sun, sand and water lovers, as it is possible to enjoy its white sands, snorkel and walk around its perimeter watching the birds.

One of the most amazing features of this island is the migratory and permanent presence of humpback whales and dolphins such as the Pacific spotted and the bottlenose dolphin. 

Gamez Island in Boca Chica

This island located in the Gulf of Chiriqui contains one of the most incredible environments you can find in the entire Pacific sector of the country, its beaches are isolated and surrounded by abundant nature.

From August to October, it is possible to watch the humpback whales, a show that will complete your summer adventure. 

As Isla Gamez is located inside the National Marine Park of the Gulf of Chiriqui, the whole area is protected, so you can enjoy abundant and intact wildlife. 

So don’t think twice and choose one or several beaches in Panama to visit in your next vacation and contact us to enjoy these tourist places differently.