Las Lajas, Panama

Playa Las Lajas is a gray-sand beach that is long and broad. The beach itself is not overly pretty and can sometimes be hit with trash from ocean currents. But it’s the most convenient beach in the area and is large enough that it never feels too crowded. Some portions of the beach are lined with palm trees and there are shady ranchos (thatched-roof huts) that beach-goers can rent for the day. The ocean here is a pleasant enough place to swim; in the distance, you can spot two islands. The islands, Ensenada and Isla Silva de Afuera, host a surf camp.

There is a scattering of hotels in the area. Travelers that come for the day can get basic meals and drinks at one of the beachside restaurants.