Best Beaches in Panama
PanamaPanama’s coastline stretches for hundreds of kilometers along both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, with over a thousand islands just offshore. This means that the best beaches in Panama are also incredibly diverse. Some of Panama's beaches have soft white sand and border calm turquoise waters perfect for swimming, such as Playa Blanca; other beaches have grey, brown, or black sand, and are served by routine swells that lure international surfers, like Playa Cambutal. Panama’s islands — including those in Bocas del Toro, the Gulf of Chiriquí, and Guna Yala — have some of the prettiest beaches in the country.
Don't forget that beaches in Panama have a lot to offer — especially if you're willing to go further offshore. Sport fishing, windsurfing, snorkeling, diving, and more are exciting alternatives to the popular pastime of surfing. Whether you prefer listening to ocean waves from the comfort of your luxury resort or enjoying a few moments of your own private paradise on an uncrowded island, Panama's beaches will offer you both the fun and relaxation you need this vacation.
Panama Highlights
A curated look at the best Panama has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.
Isla Bastimentos
Located in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, Isla Bastimentos is a sprawling 52 km island that is only a ten-minute boat ride from Isla Colón. The highlights of Isla Bastimentos are vast, ranging from the world-class snorkeling opportunities in Parque Nacional Marino Isla Bastimentos to the chilled-out beaches on the north side of the island.
Explore DestinationPlaya Venao
Playa Venao is a locally famous surf spot 34 km southwest of Pedasí. Playa Venao has hands-down the Azuero Peninsula’s best surfing, with waves breaking in both directions that are perfect for every skill level. The grey-sand beach here is pleasant, extending in a huge arc and surrounded by a curvy hillside. At present, this area is relatively undeveloped, but it is beginning to see a boom of projects as the word gets out about its laid-back vibe and awesome surf.
Explore DestinationSanta Catalina
Santa Catalina is shaping up to be one of Panama’s hottest destinations. Located along the Pacific Ocean in the Veraguas province, it has some of the most consistent surf in the country and is the jumping-off point for trips to Parque Nacional Coiba, a massive national park with amazing scuba diving and hiking trails. Santa Catalina's somewhat remote location has kept Santa Catalina devoid of large tourist crowds, but the word is out, and people are starting to show up.
Explore DestinationPlaya Blanca
Playa Blanca is set just west of Playa Farallón on Panama’s central Pacific coast. This lovely soft-sand beach is pleasant and borders a calm section of the ocean. Several upscale resorts lie near the shoreline.
Explore DestinationBoca Chica
Boca Chica is a small fishing village along Panama’s central Pacific coast that acts primarily as the gateway to both the Gulf of Chiriquí National Park (Parque Nacional Marino Golfo de Chiriquí) and the neighboring island of Boca Brava. The natural beauty of this place is impressive, but it’s still off-the-radar for most tourists. The town itself is modest and mainly local; however, there are a scattering of nice accommodations and restaurants within the immediate vicinity.
Explore DestinationIsla Boca Brava
Isla Boca Brava is a small island located in Panama’s Golfo de Chiriquí. The Golfo is also home to Parque Nacional Marino Golfo de Chiriquí, a national marine park that covers 14,740 hectares and protects 25 islands and 19 coral reefs. Although Boca Brava is the best jumping-off point for adventures into the marine park, the 3000-hectare island has its own unspoiled natural gems for guests to explore. There are numerous trails, accessible beaches, and an abundance of wildlife. Additionally, there are several pleasant accommodations situated on the island.
Explore DestinationLas Lajas
Playa Las Lajas is set along Panama’s Pacific coast in the Gulf of Chiriquí. It is one of the most popular mainland beaches in the area, mainly because it is close to both David and the Inter-American Highway. The turnoff to Las Lajas is 75 kilometers (47 mi) east of David. There is a small town of Las Lajas as well, but most people pass through it en route to the beach, which is another 8 kilometers (5 mi).
Explore DestinationPedasi
The tiny town of Pedasí is slowly emerging as one of Panama’s up-and-coming tourist destinations. Located in the southeastern corner of the Azuero Peninsula, it is tidy, charming, and friendly. The buildings are decorated with some wonderfully intact Spanish-colonial architecture, and there are a number of pristine beaches close to town. Visitors to Pedasí can take trips to the wildlife sanctuary of Isla Iguana, which lays just off the coast, or head down the Azuero 34 km to the surf-haven of Playa Venao.
Explore DestinationIsla Contadora
Located 30 miles off the Pacific coast of Panama, Isla Contadora is the most developed place in the Pearl Islands. This accessible island has lucrative real estate, luxury accommodations and world-class beaches.
Explore DestinationSapibenega Island
Sapibenega Island is one of the 378 islands in the San Blas archipelago. This small island covers 2.5 acres (1 ha), which is just enough space for you to feel like you have your very own island. These islands are famous for being the ideal island escape – with sand is so white, and water so clear, they’re the ultimate in tropical island getaways.
Explore DestinationGuanidup Island
Guanidup is one of the tiny islands that makes up the vibrant San Blas archipelago, right off Panama’s Caribbean Coast. These islands have been the domain of the indigenous Guna people since 1925, and they protect their culture along with the pristine environment. Visitors here get to explore white sand beaches lined with coconut trees, lapped by bright blue water.
Explore DestinationPlaya Coronado
Playa Coronado, located about 80 km from Panama City, is the most developed beach area in Panama. Growth has exploded here during the past few decades, and it shows – almost every inch of beachfront property has been bought up and filled with mansions, condos, and housing developments. It’s definitely one of Panama’s more ritzy areas, but still, the beach is pristine and not too crowded.
Explore DestinationIsla Popa
Popa Island is the second-largest islands in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, located just south of Bastimentos Islands. From the northern side of the island, it takes just 30 minutes to reach the town of Bocas del Toro by boat. Popa Island is also a jumping off point for tours around the archipelago. This is one of the most well-developed towns in the archipelago, and has a nice selection of restaurants and cafes.
Explore DestinationYandup Island
Like all of the islands in the Guna Yala Comarca, these islands are surrounded by bright, clear water. You’ll be greeted by swaying palms and hammocks, within easy access of the coral reef that’s just off shore. Visitors here tend to fill their days with boating, swimming, and trips to nearby Guna communities.
Explore DestinationPlaya Cambutal
Playa Cambutal is a laid-back beach town on the southern Azuero Peninsula. It’s most popular with surfers and deep-sea anglers, but its attractive coastline will appeal to most everyone.
Explore DestinationFeatured Panama Trips
Browse our handpicked selection of Panama itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.
Canal, Beach, & Nature = Family Fun
This vacation, do a little of everything when you explore the city, forest, and beach on this awesome family getaway to Panama. Nature and knowledge await you.
Our Adventure-Loving Trip
We have always lived by the beach, so we were more interested in the city, history, culture, food, and non-beach related outdoor activities for this trip. We were ready for adventure, and Boquete in Panama had it all!
A 'Friend-Ship' Sails to Panama
From wild nights in Panama city to beaches and brews in Bocas del Toro, awesome adventures and amazing memories are waiting for you and your friends in Panama.
A 'Best Of' Panama Family Adventure
This family adventure is a trip to paradise complete with magical forests, stunning beaches, marine wildlife, vibrant cities, and memories waiting to be made. Welcome to Panama.
We Had the Ultimate Adventure
I recommend Anywhere.com all the time. Loved the destinations and experiences we had in Panama. Panama is a hidden gem.
Family Road Trip and Island Adventure
Planning a family trip for twelve is not easy, but thanks to Anywhere.com, we got to experience the full flavor of Panama. Panama City is a wonderful destination, and we made some lasting memories.
A Birding Journey in The Tropics
Grab your binoculars and your guidebook! You're about to check a variety of beautiful birds off of your list in the rainforests and cloud forests of Panama.
We Explored All of Panama
Still needs some road repair, but overall progress is being made rapidly.
Our Excellent Journey
You did an excellent job planning and monitoring our trip. Thank you.
More Best Beaches in Panama
There's always more to discover in Panama. From off-the-beaten-path gems to well-loved classics, these destinations are worth adding to your itinerary.
Playa Farallón
After the Colombian-owned Decameron hotel chain built an enormous beach resort here in 2000, the formerly sleepy fishing village of Farallón was transformed into Panama’s next hot beach destination. Today, this white-sand beach is visited by both national and international travelers looking to soak up the sun. Located along the Pacific coast 68 miles (110 km) west of Panama City, Playa Farallón is easily accessible and undeniably beautiful.
Playa Bonita
Playa Bonita lies just across from the Bridge of the Americas, a location that mixes proximity to and seclusion from Panama City. Playa Bonita is a pretty beach with wonderful views.
Punta Chame
Punta Chame is a popular windsurfing spot along the Bahía de Chame in central Panama. The punta (point) is at the end of a long, thin peninsula lined by shrimp farms and mangroves. It’s only an hour and a half drive from Panama City, making it a popular spot with adrenalin-junkies from the city. In many ways, this is a get-away-from-it-all type destination, as there is little at at the end of the peninsula other than a windsurfing school, a few accommodations, and a smattering of residences.
Punta Burica
Punta Burica lies along a tiny sliver of land separating Panama’s Pacific coast from Costa Rica’s. It is one of the most isolated spots in the country, and not surprisingly, one of the most difficult to access. However, the beaches here are deserted and the surf can be awesome.
Coco Blanco Island
Coco Blanco is a tiny island that you can circumnavigate in 10 minutes. There are cabins for travelers who want to sleep not far from the idyllic Caribbean shore. The accommodations here are quite basic, and travelers here should plan to enjoy the simple luxury of lounging on and exquisite beach. But if a serene beach getaway is what you’re looking for, you’ve come to the right place.
Playa El Palmar
A relaxed surf-vibe pervades the white sand and curling waves at Playa El Palmar, a tranquil beach set along Panama’s central Pacific coast. Situated just outside the small town of San Carlos, Playa El Palmar serves up smooth, right breaking waves and a super mellow atmosphere. Locals and foreigners alike take advantage of the beautiful setting by flying kites, surfing hard, and relaxing in the sun.
Aguja Island
Aguja Island has some of the best-developed traveler services of anywhere in San Blas. It also has a spacious white sand beach, one of the longest in the San Blas archipelago. It’s not far from here to the mainland, making it an easy island to start your exploration of the San Blas islands, especially close to the port of Cartí. Travelers might come here on a day trip from Panama City.
Pearl Islands
Comprised of ninety islands and countless unnamed islets, the Pearl Islands are set off Panama's Pacific coast in the Bay of Panama. They are surrounded by aquamarine water and boast soft sand beaches that are lined with palm trees.
San Cristobal Island
San Cristóbal Island is often overlooked by tourists but its rich marine wildlife and well preserved Indian villages make it a worth the trip if you have the time.
San Carlos
San Carlos is a small town located 56.5 miles (91 km) west of Panama City. It’s nearby surfing beaches, and provides a nice place to break up a trip or crash for a night. Playa El Palmar, a stone’s throw away from the town, is a pleasant white-sand beach that is popular with beginning surfers.
Isla San José
Isla San José is a large private island in Panama’s Pearl Islands. At 16 square miles (44 sq. km), Isla San José is the second-largest island in the archipelago. It’s 55 miles from the coast of Panama and very secluded.
Santa Clara
Located along the Pacific coast in Central Panama, Playa Santa Clara is a white-sand wonder that is a favorite of both locals and tourists alike. The beach stretches for miles unabated, bordering a calm blue ocean that is perfect for swimming or just splashing around.
Playa Destiladeros
Playa Destiladeros is a wide, brown-sand beach that’s located just outside Pedasí. Like other beaches on the Azuero Peninsula, Playa Destiladeros is pretty and lacks large crowds.
Insider-led Panama Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
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Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
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Insider-led Panama Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
