Sugary sands and delightful seashores are synonymous with Central America, and Panama has a few of the greatest, with white sands, tropical island paradises, and marine life that offers the remainder of the continent a run for its cash. Past exploring the high issues to do within the palm-laden highlands of Valle de Antón and vibrant Panama Metropolis, the place to be in Panama is on the coast. Each the Pacific and Caribbean sides have swoon-worthy stretches of sand, and these are our picks for the most effective seashores in Panama.
San Blas Islands
The tiny, palm-fringed San Blas Islands, also referred to as Guna Yala, are an archipelago of 378 islands on the Caribbean facet of Panama. Most of the islands are uninhabited, however some are dwelling to the Kuna individuals, an autonomous Indigenous individuals who keep governance of their ancestral dwelling. A visit to the San Blas Islands isn’t simply an journey to a tropical paradise — it’s additionally a singular cultural expertise and an perception into how the Kuna individuals have lived for hundreds of years: fishing, buying and selling, and taking care of their most valuable crop, the coconut timber that dot the islands.
One of the simplest ways to satisfy your desert island goals is by sailboat, drifting from island to island with the nice and cozy breeze and ending every day with rum-filled coconuts and your toes within the sand. Many travellers mix a San Blas journey with a journey to or from Colombia on a multi-day crusing journey that hits a number of islands earlier than crossing the ocean to Cartagena. If you happen to’re after slightly extra motion than sitting in a hammock and watching the waves, San Blas has world-class snorkelling, together with the chance to spy a sunken ship, the Buenaventura, which has been stranded for 65 years within the crystal-clear waters. However you’d be forgiven for placing your toes up and pretending you’ve been castaway, too.
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Santa Catalina
On Panama’s Pacific coast, Santa Catalina takes slightly adventuring to get to, however the journey is price its weight in gold for the epic surf spots and scuba diving alternatives this tiny former fishing city affords guests. Discover essentially the most constant surf right here between April and October, however Santa Catalina is a year-round board-riding vacation spot. A patch of reef produces unbelievable seaside breaks for newcomers, and a few level breaks at Punta Roca and La Punta are for extra skilled surfers.
Desire to be underwater? Santa Catalina is the gateway to the UNESCO-listed Coiba Nationwide Park, an unlimited space of 1,743 sq km (673 sq mi) that’s typically referred to as the Galapagos of Central America due to its unimaginable variety of marine life. The most well-liked dive websites are off the islands of Rancherias, Canales, and Contreras, and the variety of underwater critters that may be discovered right here is really astounding. White-tipped reef sharks circle the coral, and turtles hang around on the ocean grass. It is also potential to see dolphins, eagle rays, and satan rays. If you happen to’re fortunate and time your go to proper, you would possibly even spot a whale shark, big manta rays, or humpback whales from July to September.
This space additionally has an attention-grabbing historical past. From 1914 to 2004, Coiba Island was dwelling to a penal colony that housed the nation’s most harmful criminals. It’s potential to go to the ruined constructions on an organized tour and see how nature is reclaiming this darkish a part of Panama’s historical past.
Cayos Zapatilla
Discover this group of coral-surrounded, uninhabited islands within the Bocas del Toro archipelago on Panama’s northern Caribbean coast. Native legends say that the islands have been created when God touched down from the heavens, creating two islands within the form of his toes. Different tales inform of pirates hiding their treasure right here, so when you’re seeking to stay out your Pirates of the Caribbean fantasy, that is the place to do it. Fishing and diving are the principle attracts for travellers in Bastimentos Island Nationwide Marine Park. White sand, palm timber, and mangroves encompass every cay, and the marine life is spectacular. These islands are essential websites for the endangered hawksbill turtles, which nest on the shores between March and September.
Playa Venao
Undoubtedly certainly one of Panama’s greatest seashores, Playa Venao is comparatively undeveloped and boasts black sand throughout its crescent-shaped bay, world-class browsing, and loads of alternatives for water-based actions, corresponding to stand-up paddleboarding, deep-sea fishing, and even whale watching. If you happen to’d quite keep on dry land, you’ll be able to go to fincas and eco-farms and wander to waterfalls and lookout factors for jungled views throughout the Pacific. The year-round provide of waves caters to all talent ranges, and the tranquil, untouched vibe would possibly come as a welcome break from a few of Panama’s extra well-liked locales. However that doesn’t imply it’s important to go to mattress early — there are vigorous bars, and when you go to in late March, hit up Reactor Venao, a competition of music, artwork, and wellness that takes over the small city yearly.
Isla Grande
Serene and secluded, Panama’s Isla Grande isn’t grande in any respect, protecting about 28 sq km (11 sq mi). There are not any roads or vehicles, and that’s a big a part of the appeal, although you’ll nonetheless discover every part you want, from hostels and seaside cabins to tenting spots and scrumptious meals. The island has Afro-Caribbean roots and the delicacies to match — assume fried fish, an abundance of seafood, and daring flavours. For individuals who wish to climb, the Isla Grande Lighthouse rewards those that trek up its 112 steps with an uninterrupted view throughout the island, and nature trails abound if you wish to keep out of the water. Lay eyes on the island’s iconic Black Christ statue, positioned on the reef on the entrance to the island. At excessive tide, it appears to be like as if it is strolling on water.
Playa Blanca
As you would possibly guess from its title, Playa Blanca on Panama’s central Pacific coast boasts a protracted stretch of glowing white sand that is certain to tick each field on your tropical seaside goals. What was once a small fishing village is now a bustling city with high-end resorts and seaside golf equipment dotted alongside its turquoise shores. Though it won’t be Panama’s most genuine location, it’s a worthy spot to spend a couple of days stress-free on the seaside, sunning your self foolish, and getting some much-deserved downtime after mountain climbing in Valle de Antón, which is simply an hour away.
Starfish Seashore, Bocas del Toro
Within the north of the nation close to the Costa Rica border, Bocas del Toro is one other of Panama’s archipelagos that has all of it: mangroves, reefs, nice waves, and good vibes. The primary islands are Isla Colón, Isla Carenero, and Isla Bastimentos, and you may hop amongst them on brief water taxi rides. Exploring all of the seashores right here would take weeks, however the goldmine is Starfish Seashore. Positioned on Isla Colón, this stretch of sand is lined with palm timber and blessed with heat, crystal-clear waters, however that isn’t what you are visiting for. This seaside is inhabited by big orange starfish that hang around on the sand. Get there early to keep away from the crowds. The seaside is accessible by bus with a brief stroll, by renting a scooter, or by hopping in a taxi.
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Playa Larga, Pearl Islands
Within the Gulf of Panama, Contadora Island has greater than 10 seashores, making it a beach-hopper’s paradise. The largest is Playa Larga, a stretch of golden sand and cerulean sea good for snorkelling and seafood snacks. Like most island spots in Panama, the waters are full of considerable marine life, together with vibrant coral reefs and their resident tropical fish, in addition to occasional sharks and rays. From June to October, humpback whales migrate by way of the realm. Birdwatchers ought to head to close by Pacheco Island, dwelling to tons of of pelicans. In search of someplace that feels actually off the overwhelmed monitor? Float over to Saboga Island for distant shores and a peaceable escape from the vacationer path.
Taboga Island
Simply accessible by ferry from Panama Metropolis in simply 45 minutes, Taboga Island makes the right day-trip escape or an extended keep when you want slightly island time. Often called the Island of Flowers, Taboga is a volcanic island recognized for its numerous plants and alternatives to discover on land or by sea. It’s common to see flying fish, rays, and dolphins from the ferry to the island, and the marine life sightings proceed upon arrival. With comfortable sand and clear, glittering water, Playa La Restinga is the favorite spot for many guests, however you too can hit up Playa Honda, or head out on a ship to attempt your hand at fishing. From boat excursions and kayaking to mountain climbing and birding, you’ll discover one thing to do right here whether or not you’re mendacity on the sand or not.
Playa Bluff, Bocas del Toro
Playa Bluff is certainly one of Bocas del Toro’s best-loved seashores, and for good cause. You’ve obtained 4km (2.5 mi) of golden sand; a choice of hostels, seaside bars, yoga retreats, and surf faculties; and surroundings to match. Although browsing is well-liked, you want to know what you’re doing: Bluff’s tunnels and barrels aren’t for newcomers or, more often than not, even intermediate surfers. However to not fear — when you’re not assured sufficient to take a activate the waves, you’ll be able to take part within the nightly vigils to watch turtle nests between April and August. Endangered hawksbills, leatherbacks, and inexperienced turtles nest right here, so it is the right place to get entangled in conservation. Afterward, Bocas’ nightlife awaits. Begin off the night time at a laid-back over-water bar sipping rum cocktails to reggae music or head out on an island-hopping get together that’ll have you ever consuming on abandoned seashores.