Vacation Home Rentals In Panama

Panama, located in Central America, borders the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean between Colombia and Costa Rica.  The Caribbean Sea, to the north, has 470 miles (760) km of coastline.  While to the south, the Pacific Ocean has 760 miles (1,225 km) of coastline.  For a small country the size of Panama, this is a vast amount of coastline.  And so there are hundreds and hundreds of beaches.  But what are the beaches like?  Where are the best beaches in Panama, and how do you find them?  You’ll find answers to these questions about Panama beaches and much more.  And unlike all the other posts that cover the same 9-12 beaches, our comprehensive guide reviews the 52 best beaches in Panama.  It gives you details the others don’t.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. How To Get To Panama
2. Panama Beaches In Panama City And The Gulf of Panama (#1-9)
3. Panama Beaches In Chame, Punta Chame And Coronado (Panama Oeste) (#10-15)
4. Beaches In Panama Along The Azuero Peninsula (#16-22)
5. Beaches In The Gulf Of Chiriquí (#23-37)
6. Beaches In Bocas Del Toro (#38-46)
7. Beaches In San Blas (#47-52)
8. Top 10 Beaches In Panama
9. Final Thoughts – 52 Best Beaches In Panama

How To Get To Panama

Panama is the isthmus that separates north and south America.  Fortunately, it has Tocuman International Airport (PTY).  Nearly 20 million passengers fly annually through Tocuman Airport.  It serves as the home base for Copa Airlines.  It is a regional hub to and from the Caribbean, South, North, and Central America.  And has routes to many European and Asian cities.

Wherever you’re coming from, Tocuman Airport on the outskirts of Panama City is where you’ll arrive.  But there are so many great beaches in Panama that you’ll need a variety of transportation to get to many of them: internal flights, ferries, buses, or by driving.  To help, we’ve organized the best beaches in Panama by region and provided info on how to get to each area from Panama City.

The first region we begin with are those beaches in and around Panama City and the Gulf of Panama/Panama Bay.

Panama Beaches In Panama City and the Gulf of Panama

Panama City is a central hub for central and south America, with an urban population of 880,691, with over 1.5 million in its metropolitan area.  It is one of the most cosmopolitan capitals in Central America, both a vibrant metropolis and gateway to tropical escapes.  From the shimmering glass and steel of the modern city to the peninsula of Casco Viejo, a hip neighborhood that is a World Heritage Site.  Panama City is a fabulous place to visit.  But while it has some lovely beaches, the best beaches in Panama aren’t in the city.  However, in the Gulf of Panama, you can explore some beautiful beaches on several great islands.

Best Time Of Year To Visit Panama City And The Gulf Of Panama

The temperature year-round in Panama City varies only slightly.  It has year-round lows of 24-25C and highs of 29-32C.  It has a dry season from late December to late April and a rainy season from May to November.  During the rainy season, it rains about 15 days a month on average.  But often, the rain is heavy and in short durations.  And one of the best things is that the water temperatures year-round are between 29 and 32 C!  So swimming and water sports here are great.

Best Beaches in Panama City

#1          Amador Beach ⭐⭐⭐

Amador beach along the Amador Causeway stretches out to the sea.  It’s a small stretch of beach near the Smithsonian Tropical Research Station.  It doesn’t have any services but has some great views.  You can visit the Smithsonian Research Station or the fast-developing Amador Causeway, with many restaurants and bars.  The most accessible access is by Uber for about $4-5 USD.

#2          Playa Veracruz ⭐⭐⭐

Playa Veracruz is 20-30 minutes from Panama City (depending on where you are in the City).  It’s a lovely beach for swimming or paddle boarding.  Rentals of paddleboards and kayaks are available.  There are a couple of bars and restaurants that serve local Panamanian food too.

Beaches In The Gulf Of Panama

The Bay of Panama and the Gulf of Panama are across from Panama City.  In this area, several islands are accessible by boat or ferry from the end of the Amador Causeway.  Several of these islands are home to some great Panama beaches.

#3          Playa Restinga, Taboga ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Playa Restinga on Isla Taboga is a 30-minute ferry ride from Panama City.  This quaint little island is home to a resident population of 1,000.  But, it can receive thousands of visitors daily, especially on weekends and Panamanian national holidays. 

Several things make this one of the best beaches in Panama.  Firstly, it’s proximity to Panama City.  Secondly, the views across the ocean towards the city are fabulous.  And lastly, the beach is surrounded on two sides.  On one side is the small town of Taboga, and on the other, in the distance, is Panama City.  If it wasn’t that it’s mainly a beach for a day visit, and if it weren’t quite so popular with visitors, this would be vying for one of the top 5 beaches in Panama.

It’s hot all year round, with an annual temperature of around 30C.  And the water temperature is nice and warm, varying from a low of 24 C to 30 C throughout the year.  However, from May to November, it gets lots of rain.  And while some rain is tolerable at many beaches in Panama, Taboga, with limited facilities, isn’t one of them.  Avoid going between May and November.

Playa Restinga has vendors from which you can rent sun beds and shade umbrellas and buy food and drinks.  However, many locals bring along a cooler packed with drinks and food.

Local Tip:  Make sure you buy a Pina Colada from one of the local vendors.  Served inside a hollowed-out pineapple, these are great for quenching your thirst on a hot day at the beach.

#4          Playa Larga, Isla Contadora ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Isla Contadora is one of what is known as the Pearl Islands, and Isla Contadora itself has several beaches.  We consider three of them worthy of being in our guide to the best beaches in Panama.  But unlike the much shorter ferry to Taboga, the ferry to Isla Contadora takes 2 hours each way.

Playa Larga is the most popular of the beaches on Isla Contadora.  It has half a mile of white sand and calm water.  There aren’t many stores here, so bring cash, a cooler, and drinks.  And make sure that you book a hotel before you arrive since it’s too long a journey on the ferry to do on a realistic day trip.

The island was once a hub of the rich and famous.  But since a government crackdown on tax evasion, several of the former glorious mansions have been abandoned, detracting somewhat from the spectacular landscape.

Like Taboga, all the beaches on Isla Contadora have a tropical monsoon climate.  The ocean is warm all year, but the heavy rains come between May and November.  Yearly average maximum temperatures 31°C.

Local Info:  Many famous people have recognized Playa Large as one of the best beaches in Panama and made it their home, including former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and an exiled Iranian Shah.

#5          Playa de las Suecas, Isla Contadora ⭐⭐⭐

Over the hill to the south of Playa Larga along a well-worn path is Playa de las Suecas (Swedish Women’s Beach).  The claim to fame of this, the most exotic of all the beaches in Panama, is that it’s the only legal naturist beach in the country.  So if you want to sunbathe nude at a public beach in Panama legally, this is the place to come.

This tropical beach landscape forms the shape of two croissants.  It’s not very crowded and is a very peaceful environment.  Turquoise sea, white sand, and lush flora make this space a majestic Eden.  Don’t expect any amenities here – there aren’t any.  But you can often find shade under a tree, as long as you remember to bring some insect spray.

#6          Playa Ejectiva, Isla Contadora ⭐⭐⭐

Playa Ejective (Executive Beach) on Isla Contradora is about a 20-minute walk from Playa Larga and a 15-minute walk from the ferry.  This beach is a protected, immaculate beach.  It has no services, bars, bathrooms, or shops, so bring your cooler and supplies.  You’ll experience beautiful views on this secluded of Panama beaches.

#7          Playa Encanto, Isla Saboga ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Isla Saboga is across from Isla Contadora.  The Contadora ferry stops here just before Isla Contradora.  Isla Saboga is an island with a population of around 700 people.  It has ten pristine beaches along secluded coves and inlets and an abundance of lush vegetation.  The best of these beaches is Playa Encanto.  You can experience stunning sunsets and view seasonal humpback whales and sea turtles here.

Unless you’re staying at a local accommodation, you won’t find services here, so bring a cooler for the day.  But it’s one of the best beaches in Panama.  Remember, it still falls within the tropical monsoon climate of all the beaches in this section, so avoid coming from May to November.  Save those dates for Chame, Coronado, and other beaches to come.

#8          Isla San José, Pearl Islands ⭐⭐⭐

Isla San José is one of the partly privately owned Pearl Islands.  It is also the second largest Island in the archipelago and covers an area of 44 square kilometers (~27,5 miles).  The Island’s name refers to a Saint and dates back to the time of the conquistadors that visited Panama.

Nowadays, Isla San José is an almost deserted island with approximately 30 people living on it.  You can find an abundance of wild animals, such as exotic birds, wild pigs, deer, and many reptile species.

Visiting the island takes some planning, though.  It has daily flights via Air Panama, and it’s also possible to travel by boat from Isla Contradora. But be aware that entering the island is only possible with the landowners’ permission.  So if you want to visit San José Island, you can make a reservation at the Hacienda del Mar resort (the only resort), which will take care of the transportation.  If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path beach, this is the place to come.

However, there are lots of beaches to choose from, and the surrounding waters have abundant fish.  For this reason, they’re fabulous for snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing.  And the forests here are lush and scattered with coconut palms and wild sugar cane.

Local Info: The Island has a dark history.  In the past, there were a lot of dangerous mines placed on San José by the U.S. Military.  However, the U.S. Military cleaned the island before their departure.  Nevertheless, there were 8 Bombs still found on the island, all marked by GPS.  The bombs were dropped between 1945-1947 by U.S. soldiers testing chemical arms on the island.  Don’t worry.  It’s all been cleared up long ago!

#9          Isla Del Rey ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Isla del Rey is the largest island of the” Pearl Islands” and one of the least inhabited.  The island is ~ 100 square miles with only 2,000 residents.  The Island is accessible from Panama City airport.  You can take a 20-minute flight to Isla Contadora and then a boat/ferry to Isla del Rey.  By boat from Panama City, it takes around 2.5 hours.

Only a few rustic accommodations are available on the island, including a few local restaurants in San Miguel, the main town.  One significant advantage of Isla Del Ray over Isla Contadora is that the slower development keeps nature and its biodiversity in balance.  You can find pristine beaches and coral reefs to scuba dive or snorkel all around the island, making it one of the best beaches in Panama.

Local Info: “Survivor: Pearl Islands” was recorded on Isla del Rey in 2003.  You can visit the deserted beaches used to film the series.  The Survivor: Pearl Islands winner was Sandra Diaz-Twine, followed by runner-up Lillian Morris.

The 3 Best Beaches in Panama City And The Gulf Of Panama

So, as you’ve noticed, while Panama City is a cosmopolitan city worth visiting, its forte isn’t its beaches.  For the best beaches, you must venture further afield to other regions, such as nearby Chame or the islands in the Gulf of Panama.

The Panama beaches on the islands in the Gulf are fabulous, albeit somewhat harder to get to.  The three top ones we recommend are

• Playa Larga, Isla Contadora ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – An excellent option for a beautiful beach, with ferry service from Panama City
• Isla Del Rey ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – The best of the ‘off-the-beaten-path’ beaches.  Harder to get to, but pristine beaches and fantastic snorkeling
• Playa Restinga, Taboga ⭐⭐⭐1/2 – A shorter ferry ride, very popular and an excellent way to experience a neat island vibe.

Don’t forget that if you’re visiting between May and November, you’ll want to read on further if you don’t want to get hit with the tropical monsoon rains.  And keep reading to find the Panama beaches with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ratings!

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Panama Beaches In Chame, Punta Chame and Coronado (Panama Oeste)

A little over one hour from Panama City, you’ll find some of the best beaches in Panama, but the very best is a little-known secret!  Coronado has been a trendy beach town for many years, and Punta Chame is known worldwide for its Kite-Surfing.  Meanwhile, Playa Caracol has recently become one of the premier beach destinations.

While close to Panama City, this region also has another significant advantage.  It’s on the Arco Seco, or the dry arch of the coastline, so named because of its remarkably low yearly rainfall.

There are regular buses to this area from Panama City, and driving takes just over an hour.

Best Time Of Year To Visit This Region Of Panama

The temperature year-round in this region of Panama varies only slightly.  It has year-round lows of 24-26C and highs of 30-32C.  It has a dry season from mid-December to late April and a rainy season from May to November.  But Panama City has 20% more rain annually than this region.  So if you plan on visiting beaches from May to November, this is the country’s best region. 

Best Panama Beaches Near Coronado, Chame, and Punta Chame

#10        Playa Coronado ⭐⭐⭐

The beach at Playa Coronado features an interesting mix of black and white sand.  The best entrance is near the Blue Bay Coronado Golf and Beach Resort, with street parking nearby.  The water is calm, and often, there is a gentle breeze.  Perfect for a long walk or relaxing swim.  Other activities beachgoers can engage in are horseback riding, frisbee, and jet-skiing.  It is a beautiful beach to spend the day relaxing with family and friends and enjoy sunrise and/or sunset.

Playa Coronado is Panama’s most developed beach town, with many accommodations, restaurants, and services.  As this is a gated community, the beach isn’t very crowded.  To access the beach, follow the road past the Rey supermarket, continuing straight until hitting a guardhouse that only allows those who own property or are guests of the resort to enter. 

#11        Playa Gorgona ⭐⭐⭐1/2

On the way from Panama City, Gorgona is a few minutes before you arrive at Coronado.  Although much less well known by tourists, Playa Gorgona is popular with locals and those coming on weekends from Panama City.  It has black and white sand similar to Playa Coronado but is a longer stretch of beach.  It also has a few fondas at one end where you can grab some local eats.

There is easy public access and parking for a small fee.

#12        Playa Punta Chame ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Our first 5 star ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ beach! Playa Punta Chame at the Playa Caracol project isn’t known to many people yet.  You won’t find a mention of it in most blog posts about beaches in Panama.  But that’s about to change.  It has quickly emerged as one of the best beach resorts in Canada with a 5-star beach that’s one of the very best beaches in Panama.

But why is it so unknown if it’s one of the best beaches in Panama?  Until a few years, there wasn’t any access to this coastline.  On one side, you had Punta Chame (see below); on the other, Playa Gorgona and Playa Coronado.  In between, all you had was a dense tropical jungle with access to this magnificent stretch of beach only by helicopter or boat.  But that changed in 2019 when a new road through the jungle opened access to this incredible stretch of pristine coastline. And it’s getting rave reviews.

A new resort has been emerging ever since.  And while you need to stay at the resort to access its facilities, there’s also public beach access.

So why is Playa Punta Chame at the Playa Caracol project rated as a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ beach?  Firstly it’s just over an hour outside of Panama City, making access easy, and in the country’s Arco Seco, dry region.  But what makes it so much better than Playa Gorgona or Playa Coronado?  Unlike these beaches, it is a pure white sand beach stretching as far as you can see to the left and right.  And it’s set in a backdrop of a lush tropical jungle with masses of tropical birds and other wildlife nearby, on a turtle nesting beach.  Oh, and did I mention the sunsets and sunrises?  They are stunning.

The sheer length of the beach here is impressive.  And three surfing breaks make it a haven for surfers year-round.  as the consistently good surf, a major perk is the surf shack and surf club.  You can rent longboards and a few shortboard options at the surf shack, chill inside the café or on the beach with lounge chairs, on benches in the grass with palapas and outlets.  And the surf shack restaurant has a good selection of sandwiches, tacos, and seafood.  There are options for surf classes based on experience priced from $40.  Board rentals are only $18 for the day.

While the beach resort is still developing, there will be a boutique hotel with several restaurants and a beachside Italian restaurant.  Check out the resort and accommodation, which has many amenities too.

Local Info: At Torta Banks, next to the surf shack, is a turtle nesting conservation site.  Local volunteers help hundreds of baby turtles nest, hatch, and make it to the ocean yearly.

#13        Punta Chame Fishing Village⭐⭐⭐⭐

Further along the Bejuco – Punta Chame road (route 722) are the Panama beaches of the community of Punta Chame.  Punta Chame is a typical fishing village with about 400 inhabitants.  Driving to Punta Chame, you pass lovely secluded areas bordering crab farms and mangroves.  Punta Chame is a spit that extends well out into the ocean.  It is a narrow, long peninsula with an ocean on both sides and endless white sand beaches.  It also creates a lagoon on the inside part of the spit.  While you can paddle board on the lagoon, this area gets hit with strong gusts of wind, making it a prime spot for windsurfing and kite surfing.

Budget hotels, hostels, and mid-range homes near the beach provide accommodation and several restaurants nearby.  However, Playa Punta Chame has no beach infrastructure, so bring an umbrella, a cooler, and chairs.  But it’s worth the effort as this is one of the best beaches in Panama.

#14        El Palmar ⭐⭐⭐

El Palmar is located 20 minutes further along the Pan-American highway from Coronado, just past San Carlos.  Named after the numerous palm trees that line the beach and provide some much-needed shade.  The calm water makes it good for swimming and snorkeling.  When there are moderate waves, it’s a place for beginner surfers.  It’s a low-key place to hang out on the beach.  While no major grocery stores or mini supers are inside El Palmar, beachgoers can grab a bite to eat at several restaurants.

#15        Playa Blanca, Rio Hato, Cocle ⭐⭐⭐1/2

If you’re a fan of all-inclusive resorts, you have your pick of them at Playa Blanca, located along one of the nicest stretches of beach in Panama.  Playa Blanca is another 30 minutes along the Pan-American highway from El Palmar.  Many of the resorts on Playa Blanca are all-inclusive, with some retaining private access to stretches of the beach.

The warm, clear waters and white sand make Playa Blanca one of the best beaches in Panama.   And there are many activities to do, including hiking, horseback riding, fishing, golf, or beach volleyball.

The 3 Best Beaches Near Coronado, Chame, and Punta Chame

In Chame, Punta Chame, and near Coronado are some of the very best beaches in Panama.  Not only are these easily accessible from Panama City, many have access to good services and facilities.  And some have the best white sand you’ll find anywhere.  And as these beaches are in the Arco Deco, they receive 20% less rain than Panama City.  If you’re looking for unspoiled beaches in Panama, this region has them.  And if you’re a surfer, windsurfer, or kite surfer, then look no further.

Our three top Panama beaches in this region are

• Playa Punta Chame at the Playa Caracol project ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐- Simply, it’s one of the best beaches in Panama.  Unspoiled, expansive white sand, pristine tropical setting, and a surfers paradise.  One of the few 5 star, best-of-the-best beaches in Panama.
• Punta Chame Fishing Village ⭐⭐⭐⭐- One of the top ‘off-the-beaten-path’ beaches in Panama.  A fantastic natural setting, a quaint community, and a haven for windsurfers and kite surfers.
• Playa Blanca, Rio Hato, Cocle ⭐⭐⭐1/2 – If you’re looking for a great beach and an all-inclusive experience, then Playa Blanca is a beautiful option.

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Beaches In Panama Along The Azuero Peninsula

The Azuero Peninsula is a large peninsula in southern Panama.  Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean in the south, it has the Pacific and Gulf of Montijo to the west, and the Gulf of Panama in the east.  It is a less populated area of the country and has several of the best beaches in Panama to explore.  It has a long tradition of farming, ranching, fishing, and Carnival celebrations.  It’s about a 5-hour drive from Panama City, and there are charter and other flights to Pedasi.

Best Time Of Year To Visit The Azuero Peninsula

Like Chame and the Coronado area, it is a dryer part of Panama, also in the Arco Seco.  While the wet season is from May to November, there is less rain here than elsewhere.  Average temperature highs vary between 29 – 32 C annually, while average monthly temperature lows are 23 – 25 C.  And the sea temperature is pretty constant year-round, between 27 – 28 C.

Best Beaches In Panama In The Azuero Peninsula

#16        Playa Las Comadres, Las Tablas ⭐⭐⭐

Las Tablas is the capital of the Panamanian province of Los Santos, with a population of 9,255.  It’s a national center of Panamanian folk art, music, gastronomy, architecture, culture, and literature.  A fifteen-minute drive from Las Tablas is Playa Las Comadres.  Las Comadres (meaning the wives) comes from an old story of two ladies who disagreed on the beach.  During their fight, they were both turned into rock.  And these rocks are in plain sight as you enter the beach.

Playa Las Comadres is one of the smaller but nicest local beaches in Panama.  The water is generally calm, and the pretty beach isn’t crowded.  But it does have a couple of restaurants where you can buy food and drinks.

#17        Playa Arenal, Pedasi ⭐⭐⭐

Playa El Arenal is very close to the quaint town of Pedasi (population 3,000).  The ocean is calm with a sandy bottom and is ideal for swimming.  The beach itself is extensive, allowing for long walks.  There are several local panga fishing boats here, but no services or restaurants exist.  So, bring everything you need for the day with you.

#18        Playa Toro, Pedasi ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Playa Toro (or Bull Beach) is located on the west coast of the Azuero Peninsula, only 2.5 kilometers from Pedasi.  El Toro is one of the famous Panama beaches of this area because of its beautiful scenery and proximity to Pedasi.  The beach is 2km long of yellow and orange sand.  Large rocks barricade one end of the beach.  While walking in the opposite direction will eventually bring you to Playa Arenal.  You can walk here for a long time and hardly see another person except the odd person fishing from the shoreline.

The beach is exquisite, but there’s little shade, so bring an umbrella if you stay for a while.  And there aren’t any restaurants or stores, so get everything you need for the day.

The beach is good for swimming and has fine sand, which is excellent for sunbathing.

#19        Playa Los Destiladeros, Pedasi ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Playa Los Destiladeros is an extensive and beautiful beach and one of the best beaches in Panama.  The tropical jungle frames the beach to give it a majestic feel.  And only 10 km from Pedasi Playa Los Destiladeros is largely deserted.  Still, in recent years there has been a small hotel development, and more people are visiting as they realize how great it is.

There is some shade, but not much, so bringing an umbrella is a good idea.  , but if you stay on the beach for a while, you will want to get a stocked cooler.

While this region of the country is known for its high-swell beaches, Los Destiladeros is one of the calmest.  So, you can swim and play in the sea here.  There are no surfers here, unlike at Playa Venao (below).

If you’re in the area, be sure to visit.  The area around the beach is slowly becoming more developed, with high-end houses, villas, and mansions.  As more people realize they’re on the doorstep of one of the best beaches in Panama.

Local Tip: There is a great restaurant up the road from the public access to Playa Los Destiladeros called Restaurante Terri.  Well worth a visit.

#20        Playa Venao, Pedasi ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thirty minutes from Pedasi is a beautiful 3km horseshoe-shaped bay, Playa Venao, the 2nd of our 5 star beaches.  It’s a gorgeous stretch of blackish volcanic sand that has transformed from a wild beach on the southern edge of the Azuero Península to one of the most popular beaches in Panama.

In addition to the fabulous beach, lots is going on here.  People come for surfing where a south-facing beach is ideally situated for the swells.  But there are music festivals, whale watching, stand-up paddle boarding, zip-lining, horseback riding, fishing, and hiking to the La Cascada waterfall.  Playa Venao is a neat community with many hostels, hotels, and Airbnb.   And there are several beach rental places and surf schools, and restaurants.  And while its popularity has increased, there aren’t enormous crowds, and Playa Venao has a laid-back, comfortable atmosphere.

#21        Playa Cambutal, Tonosi ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Cambutal is a thriving beach community a 95-minute drive from Pedasi.  It is located at the bottom of the Aquero Penisula and has a population of 500 people.   And it has a great beach and excellent services and activities.  These include kayaking, horseback riding, yoga, watching great sunsets, surfing, hiking and waterfalls, sport fishing, healing and wellness retreats, turtle hatching, and monitoring events.  If you’re interested in off-the-beaten-track places, Playa Cambutal should be one of the Panama beaches on your list.

Local Info: Canadian Pro Surfer Leah Oke from British Columbia makes Cambutal home and teaches surfing.

#22        Isla Iguana ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Isla Iguana is 58 acres of a protected wildlife refuge.  It’s only accessible by boat, booking a tour in Pedasi, or negotiating a price with a fisherman at Playa El Arenal.  Overnight stays aren’t allowed, nor is alcohol, enforced by the island Rangers.  However, Isla Iguana makes for a fabulous day trip. 

Ensure you bring a cooler packed with drinks and food because no restaurants or services besides a toilet exist.  There are some shaded picnic tables at the back of the beach.  The bay, though, is beautiful.  White sand and crystal clear aquamarine water.  There’s also lots of wildlife, including many iguanas (hence the island’s name) who aren’t shy about sharing your lunch.   There are also lots of hermit crabs, and over 5,000 frigate birds call the island home.  And bring your snorkel equipment, too, as there are nearly 350 types of fish, 3 types of turtles, and 17 different corals that you can see snorkeling the bay.

Local Tip:  While strolling across the island, you’ll walk by a few larger craters.  These were made by the U.S. Airforce when they used the island as target practice a few decades ago.

The 3 Best Beaches Along The Azuero Peninsula

The Azuero Peninsula is a beautiful part of Panama.  Due to its location, the beaches here are much less populated than those in the Gulf of Panama, Bocas Del Toro, and many other regions.  However, you’ll find some of the best beaches in Panama along this stretch of coastline.

Our three top Panama beaches in this region are

• Playa Venao, Pedasi ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – a gorgeous stretch of blackish volcanic sand, a small thriving community and services, and a laid-back surfer vibe atmosphere.  One of the best beaches in Panama.
• Playa Los Destiladeros, Pedasi ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – one of the best beaches in Panama.  The tropical jungle frames the extensive beach to give it a majestic feel. 
• Isla Iguana ⭐⭐⭐1/2 – if you’re a wildlife enthusiast, visiting this island is a must.  Aquamarine water, white sand, and a backdrop of the tropical jungle.

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Beaches In Panama In The Gulf Of Chiriquí

Chiriquí is a province in western Panama bordering Costa Rica and the Pacific Ocean.  The main city in the region is David, with a population of 83,000.  While you can drive to the coastline bordering the Gulf of Chiriquí from Panama city, it will take 6 hours to get here.  Alternatively, you can fly to David and drive or take buses from there.

The Gulf of Chiriquí is a part of Panama that encompasses Coiba National Park and Golfo de Chiriquí National Park.  There are dozens of islands in this Gulf. The Gulf of Chiriqui is a pristine Pacific Gulf nestled into Panama’s northwest side.  Known to some as “the lost coast,” Chiriqui is a destination just waiting to be discovered by the world.  The area’s unspoiled coastal and marine environments rival the best on Central America and Mexico Pacific coasts.  Dozens of pristine emerald isles dot the Gulf, with some of the world’s most bio-diverse ecosystems.  These include dense jungles and primordial mangroves that boast thousands of species of flora and fauna.  An extraordinary amount of marine species call these temperate waters their home, including humpback whales, hammerhead sharks, dolphins, multiple species of sea turtles, and giant rays.  And here lie many fabulous beaches in Panama to be explored.

Best Time Of Year To Visit The Gulf Of Chiriquí

The weather in the Gulf of Chiriqui region varies a little since it is such a large area.  But the average temperature highs year-round in the Gulf of Chiriquí are 29  – 35C, with lows throughout the year of 22 – 24C.  And this region is no longer in the Arco Seco.  So it receives about 10% more rain annually than Panama City and over 30% more than Panama Oeste (Chame, Coronado) and the Azuero Peninsula.  The wet season extends from mid-April to mid-December.  However, in Santa Catalina, this extends to the end of December.  So definitely, you want to plan a trip here between mid/end of December and mid-April during the dry season.

Best Beaches in Panama In The Gulf Of Chiriquí

#23      Playa Morrillo, Veraguas ⭐⭐⭐

Playa Morrillo is a semi-deserted beach that is an exceptional destination for surfers because it has a spectacular tube wave.  It is a very wild and rural beach for adventurers and lovers of tubular waves.  There is a Surf Camp but no other services.  This is a fantastic raw beach with some serious waves for surfers, but the south end of the beach is more sheltered for some relaxed swimming.

As it’s unspoiled and remote, it is common to find toucans, monkeys, and whales. It’s about 4 hours from David, 5 hours from Panama City, and 3 ½ hours from Pedasi.

#24      Punta Duarte, Veraguas ⭐⭐⭐ 1/2

Two minutes drive down the road from Playa Morillo is Punta Duarte.  The beach here is wide and bordered by thick trees offering shade and is calm for relaxed swimming.  And the beach is connected to a small island offshore, accessible during low tide.  When the tide does recede, many rock pools are revealed, often filled with colorful fish, crabs, and starfish.

There is a small boutique hotel (Punta Duarte Garden Inn) where guests can enjoy surfing, kayaking, fishing, horseback riding, bird watching, hiking, and paragliding.

#25        Playa Torio, Veraguas ⭐⭐⭐

Playa Torio is another lovely beach only a few minutes drive from Playa Morillo and Punta Duarte.  It has some large palm trees that provide shade and is a very scenic beach.  There aren’t any services here, but there are hardly any people at this Panama beach.

#26        Playa Santa Catalina, Santa Catalina ⭐⭐⭐

Once a small fishing village with relatively few visitors, Santa Catalina has become a world-renowned surfing destination.  Located on the Pacific coast of the Veraguas province, Santa Catalina has a handful of restaurants and accommodations, as well as a grocery store and surfing schools. 

Playa Santa Catalina is a black sand beach in the heart of the town.   The beach is a great place to hang out.  There’s a good mix of visitors and locals who play volleyball and other evening games.  There are cafes and scuba, kayak, and snorkel rental stores here.

The beach at Playa Santa Catalina is excellent for beginners learning to surf, especially for young children.

Local Tip: Overlooking Santa Catalina Beach is Restaurante Pinguinos.  As well as a fabulous place to watch the sunset, it has terrific pasta dishes.  The owner, Luca, from Sardinia, Italy, is the secret behind the magnificent flavors.

#27        Playa Estreo, Santa Catalina ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Playa Estero is east of town across a small river near the Vasquez store.  Playa Estero has less activity throughout the day and is often completely empty.  But Playa Estero is one of the best beaches in Panama to learn to surf.  Its flat, shallow bottom with little current produces perfect waves for beginners.  Waves that are just big enough for beginners to stand up and ride for a long distance in relatively shallow water in safe conditions.  There are only a few meters of sand at high tide at Playa Estero.  However, there are well over a hundred meters of black sand at low tide.

#28        La Punta, Santa Catalina ⭐⭐⭐1/2

La Punta has some of the best waves to surf of all the beaches in Panama.  Between April and September, it breaks right every day with a large sweeping tide that has surfers waiting for high tide.  But make no mistake, this beach is for advanced surfers, not beginners.  It has 3 different peaks, all of which break over a reef, so you can choose your favorite one depending on the day’s conditions.  You must walk on the beach about 25 minutes south of Santa Catalina to reach this spot.

Also, La Punta beach is a great spot to launch a kayak or stand-up paddleboard for a trip to Isla Catalina offshore.

#29        La Coquita, Santa Catalina ⭐⭐⭐

La Coquita is another of the fabulous beaches in Panama.  At sunset, there are some wonderful light reflections off the black sand.  La Coquita is one beach further along from Playa Estero across the rocks at the end of the beach.

As it’s a large stretch of sand, it is a popular spot for horseback riding.

#30        Coiba Island, INAM Ranger Station, Gulf of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, Coiba is a marine reserve in the Gulf of Chiriquí covering 38 islands home to some of the best beaches in Panama.  Once a penal colony, access to the island was limited, leaving much of the area’s natural resources untouched.  Today, the marine park boasts some of the most remarkable biological diversity in the world.  There are humpback whales, dolphins, orca whales, various kinds of sharks, barracudas, stingrays, tuna, and manta rays.  If you come between December and April, the biggest fish in the ocean is here, whale sharks!  On a hike across the island rainforest and you could see some of the 147 bird species, as well as monkeys, crocodiles, and iguanas.

Coiba’s beach is one of the best beaches in Panama and a true tropical paradise.  The unspoiled white sand beach and the transparent water make it perfect for snorkeling and diving.  There is also a wonderful hike through the jungle up to a great lookout point over the island.  It takes about 20 mins or so up to the top, but if you take your time, you’ll see Howler and Capuchin monkeys.  As well as many tropical birds.

The closest place to Coiba is Santa Catalina, where you can take a tour or a boat to the island, which takes about 90 mins each way.  It is possible to stay overnight in Coiba National Park but don’t expect glitz and glamour.  Suppose you want to stay overnight in Coiba National Park.  In that case, you will stay at the ANAM ranger station on Isla Coiba, which has basic 2-room cabins with air conditioning.  Contact ANAM (507) 998-0615, fax (507) 998-4387, or the National Park office (507) 998-4271.

Local Info: You might read in other Panama beach blog posts about the local crocodile, Tite.  Unfortunately, Tite passed away 😥 of natural causes several years ago.  But you can still view Tite’s old beach at the back of the Ranger Station.

#31        Rancheria Island (Coibita), Coiba, Gulf of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

While the main beach on Coiba Island at the INAM Ranger station is fabulous, Rancheria Island, also known as Coibita, is the best beach of all the islands and out third 5 star beach.  This island is administered by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, which conducts various scientific expeditions.  The island itself is 242 hectares, mostly covered by primary forests.  But it has the most magnificent beach.

The extensive beach of white sand is luxurious.  The grade of the sand to the beach is gradual and is perfect for swimming or hanging out in the ocean.   Above the beach is a beautiful tropical palm tree paradise where you can relax in the shade.

Rancheria Island is just across from the Inam Ranger Station on the main Coiba Island and can be reached in less than 5 mins by boat from there.  Ask your boat Captain to stop on Rancheria for a while – you won’t regret it. 

Local Info:  Just as the palm trees turn into a mangrove jungle beyond the beach, there is a freshwater lagoon with two resident crocodiles.  The largest one is about 15ft long.  They can be regularly seen during the daytime.

#32 Cocos Islands, Coiba, Gulf of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐1/2

A two-minute boat ride from Rancheria Island are two small islands or islets called Cocos Islands.  Two small beaches on one and a third on the other islands are separated by a short stretch of water.  While the beaches here aren’t expansive or as luxurious as those at Rancheria Island (Coibita) or the Ranger Station on Coiba Island, the snorkeling is incredible.

They are one of the best places to snorkel in the world.  It’s well worth a visit if you’re in the area.  The visibility is often excellent.  As well as lots of reef fish, you’ll see turtles, rays, and reef sharks hanging out on the sand’s edge near the coral reefs.

#33        Playa Las Lajas, Gulf of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Little-known Playa Las Lajas is 15 km of one of the best beaches in Panama.  The coastline of Playa Las Lajas is so long and straight that the sand and palm trees that border the beach go as far as you can see in either direction.  Las Lajas is relatively undeveloped, and you’ll either be alone or only come across a handful of people along the beach (more so on weekends).  At the moment, tourism has not arrived en masse, so tranquility reigns here.

Las Lajas is excellent for hanging out in the small lapping waves or swimming.  It’s an example of one of the many Panama beaches that is expansive, off-the-beaten-path, and primarily pristine.

A few local accommodation options include Las Lajas Resort and the Show Pony Resort.  To get to Las Lajas, drive from David (or take a taxi), which will take about an hour.  Or you can take a bus to San Felix and then a taxi to Las Lajas (about 90 mins).

Local Tip: The town of Las Lajas, inland from the beach, is famous for its striking, sculpture-filled bus stops, each depicting a different marine scene.  Watch out for them as you head towards the coast.

#34        Playa La Barqueta, David, Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐

The beauty of La Barqueta is its length, giving plenty of space to wander and explore.  The sand is dark and gets hot quickly, so if you want to take a walk, have sandals.  The dark grey sand is unusual for Panama beaches and adds to the beauty and uniqueness of this beach.  While the beach is long and large, strong currents mean it’s not the best swimming beach.

Located 30 – 80 mins south of David, Playa La Barqueta is 18 km long!  So, generally, it’s quiet, especially during the week, but it can get busier on weekends.  Often, the waves gather strength later in the day, making quite an impressive sight.  The area is well known for its surf breaks and deep-sea fishing.  However, no surf operators are here to rent you boards or other equipment.

#35        Gavilla Beach, Boca Chica, Gulf Of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐

Gavilla Beach is another one of the Panama beaches that is hidden and pristine.  About 80 minutes drive from David, or 35 mins from Boca Chica, is Gavilla Beach.  This out-of-the-way beach is covered in shells, including large conch shells.  Several beaches in the Gulf of Chiriquí can have an undertow, requiring some caution if you’re swimming.  But not Gavilla Beach.  It’s one of the beaches in Panama that is great for kids.  As it’s remote and out of the way, you’ll often find monkeys on the beach and in the trees overhanging the beach.

Another great feature of this beach is the grass huts, each with a table, chairs, and a hammock.  Perfect for some shade to relax out of the heat.  While this is a beautiful beach, ensure you come during the dry season (December – April).  Part of the road to get here is a bumpy dirt road that could be very challenging in the wet season.  A 4×4 is advisable.

#36       Isla Boca Brava, Boca Chica, Gulf Of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐ 1/2

Isla Boca Brava is a small island in Panama’s Golfo de Chiriquí.  The Golfo is also home to Parque Nacional Marino Golfo de Chiriquí.  This national marine park 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.  While here, you will likely see Howler monkeys and 280 species of birds, including toucans, woodpeckers, tanagers, vivid warbles, green parrots, hawks, herons, spoonbills, ibis frigate birds, and many others.

The marine life is also plentiful here, including humpback whales from July through October.  The local residents include dolphins and sea turtles.  Sporting fishing is also a significant attraction with yellowfin tuna, jack, black and blue marlin, and snapper.  You won’t be surprised to hear that this is a scuba diving hotspot too.  There are numerous trails, accessible beaches, and an abundance of wildlife.  Additionally, there are several pleasant accommodations situated on the island.

And Boca Brava has some of the best beaches in Panama too.  White sand, crystal clear water, and gorgeous bays to snorkel in.  Coconut palms provide some shade, but there aren’t many services, so remember to bring a stocked cooler.  Although tourism activity is increasing with more infrastructure and roads being put in place.  And new restaurants, small hotels, fishing lodges, and other facilities have recently opened.  It takes about 30 minutes by boat from Boca Chica.

#37        Playa Secreto, Isla Bolanos, Boca Chica, Gulf Of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Isla Bolaños, part Marine National Park of the Gulf of Chiriqui, is a protected, pristine area.  It is a beautiful island with the typically magnificent white sand beaches of Panama, surrounded by trees and coconut palms.  It’s a fabulous place to relax and enjoy nature.  As well as the white sand beaches, it is perfect for snorkeling with crystal clear water.  And there are many different marine species to see, such as colorful fish, corals, turtles, black-nosed butterflyfish, the king angelfish, several types of pufferfish, and the Mexican hogfish.  The area also has large shoals of razor surgeonfish and Panama porkfish.  Depending on the season, you can see dolphins and humpback whales with their babies.  

Isla Bolanos is one of the best beaches in Panama and a wonderful experience.  Boat tours from Boca Chica cost about $120 for up to 6 people and take about 40 mins each way.  And as there are no services on the island, a well-stocked cooler and other supplies are essential for the day.

The 4 Best Beaches Along The Gulf Of Chiriquí

The Gulf Of Chiriquí is home to many amazing beaches.  From pristine, hard to get to, hidden gems to expansive beaches with a few restaurants, accommodations, and other services.  But remember, this region is not in the Arch Seco.  So it receives more rainfall than the Azuero Peninsula, Chame, and Coronado regions.  So plan your visits here between December and mid-April.

There are so many wonderful Panama beaches in this region we couldn’t limit our best Panama beaches here to the top three.  So we snuck in a 4^th!

• Rancheria Island (Coibita), Coiba, Gulf of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – A genuinely amazing beach and tropical paradise.  Maybe the #1 of the best beaches in Panama!  Fabulous water to relax in or swim and white powder sand.  Doesn’t get any better than this.
• Coiba Island, INAM Ranger Station, Gulf of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2 – Truly one of the best beaches in Panama.  A UNESCO World Heritage Site with fantastic wildlife, in a pristine natural setting, on an island in the Gulf of Chiriquí.  The unspoiled white sand beach and the crystal clear water make Coiba a true paradise
• Playa Las Lajas, Gulf of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Playa Las Lajas is possibly the best of our beaches in Panama, not to get 5 stars.  Fifteen km of sand without mass tourism, but with a few accommodations, restaurants, and services, so you can have a great vacation.  Like Playa Caracol, Las Lajas is a great place to bring the family for a fabulous beach vacation in an unspoiled setting.
• Playa Secreto, Isla Bolanos, Boca Chica, Gulf Of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐1/2 – Smaller than Coiba but still a naturally protected area.  If you can’t get to Coiba, try Playa Secreto on Isla Bolanos.  It’s a solid backup to visit.

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Panama Beaches In Bocas Del Toro

So far, we’ve covered 37 beaches in Panama that have all been on the Pacific coastline.  Now we are heading north to the Caribbean coast, and first is Bocas Del Toro.

Bocas del Toro is a province of Panama, an island chain off the Caribbean coast, and a section of the nearby mainland.  Isla Colón, the main island, is home to the capital, Bocas Town, a central hub with restaurants, shops, and nightlife.  There are many famous and some secluded Panama beaches here.  You can drive and take a ferry to Bocas del Toro, which takes about 10 hours from Panama City.  Or you can fly from Albrook Airport in Panama City.  Flying takes 45 minutes.  Bocas del Toro is not just a beautiful archipelago lost in time.  It is blessed with tremendous natural beauty with a laid-back Caribbean vibe.

Best Time Of Year To Visit Bocas del Toro

The temperature highs in Bocas del Toro are 30-32 C year-round.  The lows are 20-22C, slightly lower than most of the Pacific coastline of Panama.  As with the rest of Panama, it has a dry and wet season.  But the total annual rainfall is much higher than on the Pacific coast.  Annually Bocas del Toro receives 3,500 mm of rain.  That’s almost twice as much rain at Chame, Coronado region, or the Azuero Peninsula.  The dry season here is from January to May.  But in January, it still receives 126 mm of rain compared to 35 mm in the Chame/Coronado region.  And although technically, in the dry season, April rainfall spikes to 369 mm before dropping in May to 178mm.  So be prepared.  Bocas del Toro is beautiful, but it rains here.  However, in the wet season, between mid-September and mid-October Bocas del Toro, there is a sharp drop in the average rainfall.  So during this small window of the wet season, it receives less rain than the Pacific coast.

Best Beaches In Panama In Isla Colon, Bocas Del Toro

#38        Bluff Beach, Isla Colon, Bocas Del Toro ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Bluff Beach on Isla Colon is the closest of the best beaches in Panama to Bocas Town.  Getting from downtown Bocas del Toro to Bluff beach takes about 25 mins by car, depending on where you stop along the coast.  At 5 miles, it’s the longest beach on Isla Colon and the most accessible.  It’s also one of the best beaches in Panama because of the vast, soft, orange-colored sand.  The contrast between the green palm trees and other tropical vegetation, the azure blue water, and the deep orange sand is striking.

Hanging out or going for a long walk along Bluff beach is a great experience.  But be careful swimming as the waves come in hard, and there can be strong rip currents too.  If you’re a strong surfer and get some local insight into the surf here, surfing is also an option.  Bluff draws professional surfers from around the globe for the perfect barrel.

A little over mid-way along Bluff beach is a beachside bar and café, and at the top end is the Bluff Beach Retreat and Restaurant.  If you’re not heading that far, bring a cooler and settle in for a relaxing day.

#39        Playa Estrella, Isla Colon, Bocas Del Toro ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Playa Estrella, or Starfish Beach, has become well known as one of the best beaches in Panama because of the abundance of giant orange starfish.  The starfish are everywhere and can be seen simply with a diving mask.  And Playa Estrella is a gorgeous white sand beach with turquoise, crystal-clear water.

Many of the beaches in Bocas have strong waves, but the shoreline here is shaped like a bay.  So, it doesn’t catch any swell and makes for calm water and a relaxed vibe.  As a result, the calm crystal blue water of Playa Estrella draws people to this side of the island.  So many that it’s the most popular beach on Isla Colon.  It’s the best swimming beach on Isla Colon, with a couple of restaurants, a beach volleyball court, kayaks, and floating lounge chairs.  All great fun, but it does get busy.

To get here, the best option is to take a collectivo or minibus from Bocas to the northwest of the island.  The bus ride lasts 45 minutes to Bocas del Drago (see below).  You have to walk for approximately 20 minutes to reach Playa Estrella.  Or you can book a tour by boat from Bocas Del Toro, which takes about 30 minutes.

#40        Playa Boca Del Drago, Isla Colon, Bocas Del Toro ⭐⭐⭐1/2

As mentioned above, if you drive or come by collectivo/minibus, you’ll arrive here before Playa Estrella.  But unlike Playa Estrella, Playa Boca Del Drago isn’t as busy.  So here you can have your stretch of this palm-lined beach all to yourself.  

This is a typical beach in Panama.  It’s clean, secluded, beautiful, and ideal for lounging, reading, sunbathing, or swimming.  Also, there are coral gardens close to the shore that can make for some decent snorkeling.  As the waves are calm, this is the other excellent swimming option on Isla Colon.

A small Panamanian restaurant is at the entrance to the beach, and a few local artisans stands.  Around 300 Ngäbe indigenous people inhabit 25 houses along the road between Bocas del Toro and Boca del Drago.  And the small community of Boca del Drago has a primary school with 45 students.  They don’t have electricity, and the water comes from a creek.  They are mainly fishermen who also do a little farming.

Local Info:   Boca del Drago is where Christopher Columbus actually first stopped in Panama as he sailed south from Costa Rica.

Best Beaches In Panama On Isla Bastimentos, Bocas Del Toro

Isla Bastimentos is one of the largest islands in Panamá and provides a laid-back alternative to the busy streets and bars in the center of Bocas Town.  Just a ten-minute water taxi ride from Isla Colon, Isla Bastimentos is home to many wonderful beaches in Panama.

#41        Wizard Beach, Isla Bastimentos, Bocas Del Toro ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Wizard Beach is a remote, secluded, and stunning beach on the eastern side of Bastimentos.  There is no infrastructure and few visitors daily, so if you want a remote tropical Panama beach, this is it.

The walk to Wizard Beach from the dock, where a water taxi drops you off, takes 30 minutes when the weather is dry.  After the rain, it will take at least twice that long to trek through the mud.  The walk is steep at times and hot during the peak of the day but gives you a fantastic view of the interior jungle of Bastimentos.  Bring plenty of water and food, depending on how long you will be there.

#42        Red Frog Beach, Isla Bastimentos, Bocas Del Toro ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Further down the eastern coast of Isla Bastimentos, from Wizard beach, is Red Frog Beach.  Although close in proximity, it’s not possible to walk through the jungle between the two, so to get to Red Frog Beach, you have to take a boat.  From Bocos Town to Red Frog Beach takes about 10 mins and $5.

Red Frog Beach is similar to Wizard Beach, except that you have many amenities at Red Frog.  So if you want a secluded, wild beach, then choose Wizard.  But if you want services, bars, restaurants, etc., select Frog Red.  Red Frog beach is much more popular than Wizard because of the services available and because of its reputation as one of the best beaches in Panama.

Red Frog is a white sand beach with a thick jungle as a backdrop, which in places stretches down to the water, creating many small coves.  Unsurprisingly, the name red frog comes from the tiny amphibians you can find here.

Be careful swimming here, as the waves can be pretty strong a lot of the time.

#43        Polo Beach, Isla Bastimentos, Bocas Del Toro ⭐⭐⭐1/2

A 30-45 minute hike from Red Frog beach is Polo Beach.  Unless you want to go by boat, which is much quicker!  The beach is a beautiful stretch of sand ringed by a gorgeous coral reef resulting in calm water that is great for swimming and snorkeling.

Local Tip: The beach is named after Polo, who lives at the beach and is a local legend here.  He’s quite the character and will make you a delicious lunch if you have $5 to spare.

#44        Long Beach, Isla Bastimentos, Bocas Del Toro ⭐⭐⭐

About another 30-plus minute hike from Polo beach is Long beach.  It’s a beautiful, uninhabited, 5 km stretch of beach that very few people make it to because of its lack of accessibility.  However, if the weather and waves are calm, the best way to get to Long Beach is by boat.

It’s a turtle-nesting beach (Hawksbill, Green, and Leatherback) and one of the few surfing beaches in Bocas Del Toro.

Other Beaches In Bocas Del Toro

Other great beaches in Panama in Bocas del Toro are the following.

#45        Cayos Zapatillo, Bocas Del Toro ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Cayos Zapatilla is a group of two uninhabited islands located east of Isla Bastimentos in the Bocas del Toro Archipelago.  North Cayo Zapatilla is 14 hectares long, while south Cayo Zapatilla is larger at 34 hectares.  The name comes from a legend that these 2 islands were formed when God stepped on the earth, leaving the shapes of his slippers as footprints.

Around the islands are white sand beaches contrasting against the beautiful blue ocean.  It takes about 35-40 mins by boat from Bocas Town.  You can book an organized tour or rent your own boat and Captain.  Ensure you bring a cooler with lots of water and snacks for the day.  On a calmer day, you can snorkel as the seas are somewhat sheltered by a coral reef full of marine life.  From March to September, on the west side of the island, you can observe the migration of turtles that come to lay their eggs on these beaches 

#46        Isla Popa, Bocas Del Toro ⭐⭐⭐

Isla Popa is the second largest island in the Bocas del Toro archipelago, just south of Isla Bastimentos.  It has several café’s, restaurants and other facilities, hotels, and exclusive resorts.  It is about 30 mins from Bocas Town by boat.

You’ll find colorful reefs, mangroves, and lush forests where you can see tucans.  And the snorkeling here is good too.  There are several small beaches where you can relax.  And Isla Popa is home to five indigenous communities and 600 people.  The majority of the inhabitants are indigenous Ngöbe.  Each community practices agriculture tends livestock and artisanal fishing.  Most residents live in rustic homes, many of them built over the sea.  There are no ATMs, so make sure you bring cash!

The 3 Best Beaches In Bocas Del Toro

Bocas Del Toro is an archipelago of Islands that has some great beaches.  While many beaches are a boat ride away, most are within 30-40 mins.  But remember that there’s more rain in Bocas than in many other coastal areas of Panama, especially in the wet season (May – December).

Our three top Panama beaches in this region are

• Bluff Beach, Isla Colon ⭐⭐⭐⭐- Simply, it’s the best beach on Isla Colon (the main Island of Bocas) and one of the best beaches in Panama.  It’s long, has great sand, and is beautiful.  As elsewhere, throughout a lot of Bocas, the ocean can be rough at times.
• Red Frog Beach, Isla Bastimentos ⭐⭐⭐⭐- A great white sand beach with a thick jungle as a backdrop, which in places stretches down to the water, creating many small coves.  Again be careful swimming.  Despite its increased popularity, it edges out Wizard beach because of the amenities here.  If you want pure wilderness, then choose Wizard.
• Playa Estrella, Isla Colon ⭐⭐⭐1/2 – Playa Estrella is a gorgeous white sand beach with a turquoise and crystal clear water. And the shoreline is shaped like a bay, so it doesn’t catch any swell and makes for calm water for swimming and a relaxed vibe.  It has café’s, restaurants, and other amenities.  Despite its increased popularity, it remains one of the best Panama beaches in Bocas Del Toro.

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Panama Beaches In San Blas

We’ve covered a lot of gorgeous beaches so far, and we still have to cover the San Blas Islands!

Guna Yala (San Blas) is an indigenous territory governed by the Guna indigenous people.  It’s an archipelago of over 350 islands and cays, of which nearly 50 are inhabited by the Guna people.  They lie off the north coast of the Isthmus of Panama, east of the Panama Canal in the Caribbean Sea.  The Gunas are known for crafting the famous Molas, a traditional textile made from layers of colored fabric composed to form patterns and pictures inspired by their cosmogenic beliefs.

Remember, there are no internet access or credit card payments, and U.S. dollars are the only acceptable form of payment.  The only accommodation is to lodge in thatched huts without heated water or go camping by renting tents or hammocks.

To get here, you can take a 4×4 ride from Panama City to Cartí, the main port of the San Blas Islands.  It’s a 2.5-hour scenic drive through the central mountain range.  At Cartí, you can access the islands by boat to reach some great Panama beaches in about 20 minutes.

Best Time Of Year To Visit San Blas/Guna Yala

Similar to Bocas Del Toro this región gets a lot of rain compared to other coastal regions in Panama.  Especially from May to December.  The high temperatures in the summer combined with the rain make it also very humid.  The temperature highs in San Blas are 30-32 C year-round.

Best Beaches in Panama In The Guna Yala/San Blas Islands

#47        Isla Perro, San Blas Islands ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Isla Perro is close to El Porvenir, about 30 mins by boat from Carti, and has a community of about 10 families.  They allow camping for free and bonfires.   There are also some elevated wooden cabins with great views of San Blas.  There is also a bar/restaurant serving typical Panamanian cuisine.

Isla Perro has a lovely beach surrounded by coral with an extensive reef that links it with its neighbor, Isla Diablo, easily visible from the shore.  The water is crystal clear, warm with lots of fish.  And ten meters from the shore, are the ruins of a sunken ship that you can explore swimming and snorkeling.  As well as fish you’ll see large manta rays hanging around the shipwrecked boat.  At night you will love the festive atmosphere, as the beach is animated when visitors illuminate it with their bonfires.

Bring snorkel gear, sun cream, water and drinks, and an umbrella or shade cover.  And remember, there’s no cell coverage, so you’ll have to relax and chill out!  But it’s earned a reputation as one of the best beaches in Panama.

#48        Isla Diablo, San Blas Islands ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Across from Isla Perro is the slightly larger Isla Diablo which is only about 300m long.  Another pretty island in the northern Gulf of San Blas. It’s ideal for snorkeling due to the sandbars and coral reefs that protect the island.  On both sides of the island, you will find a well-preserved coral reef that offers shelter to abundant marine life.  And you can also reach the sunken ship mentioned above at Isla Perro.

Isla Diablo has a large beach with beautiful views from the hammocks. 

There are 3 types of basic eco-friendly accommodation: shared dormitory, private cabins with shared bathrooms, and private cabins with a private bathroom.

#49        Aguja Island, San Blas Islands ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Aguja Island is a little north of Isla Diablo.  It has some of the best-developed services anywhere in San Blas.  It also has a spacious white sand beach, one of the longest of the Panama beaches in the San Blas archipelago.

There is a very basic campground here.  Besides the simple cabins, there’s a bar on the island where you can buy beer, wine, bottled water, and soft drinks. 

Aguja island (needle island) has many palm trees, a white sand beach, and crystal-clear water.  And the island has probably the most services of all the islands.

#50        Coco Blanco Island, San Blas Islands ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Slightly to the south of Isla Perro and Isla Diablo is the tiny Coco Blanco Island, which you can walk around in 10 mins.  However, it’s a spectacular, albeit small, white sand beach island with four cabanas.  The cabanas are basic but offer comfy beds and a private bathroom with showers and flush toilets. Traditional Kuna Yala meals, including fresh seafood, are served three times daily at ocean-side tables in the cool shade of a palm-thatched palapa.  Electricity is available from six until ten or eleven but on a clear night the only light you’ll want to see is that of the moon casting its surreal blue glow across the sandy beach while a billion stars sparkle like diamonds in the dark sky.  Looking out over the ocean, Coco Blanco gives a castaway experience you will not forget.

During the high season (January – April), it can get quite busy with visitors.

#51        Guanidup Island, San Blas Islands ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Guanidup Island is close to the middle of the San Blas islands, so it is an excellent place to explore the rest of the archipelago.   Make sure to bring your snorkeling gear to look for tropical fish.  Intact coral reefs are easily accessible from the shore.  Stingrays, zebrafish, starfish, squid, and sharks are all familiar sights.  While cruising along the crystalline water’s surface, you might also see dolphins hunting for fish near your boat.

This small island paradise has white beaches, turquoise waters, coral reefs, hammocks, and private cabins.  It’s one of the less visited islands, but it is a great place to hang out.

You can also be taken by canoe to the traditional village of Rio Sidra (Mamardup) for a few hours visit, where they make the famous traditional mola. 

Local Info: Molas, a traditional textile made from layers of colored fabric crafted to form patterns and pictures inspired by their cosmogenic beliefs.

#52        Islas Maqui, San Blas Islands ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Islas Maqui is on a set of islands called Cayos Holandéses (Dutch Cays).  They are 15 km from the mainland and the farthest removed Panama beaches in the archipelago.  Getting to these islands requires a boat with a powerful motor or a yacht.  There are no hotels in the Cayos Holandéses, but camping on some islands may be possible.

Like most islands in the archipelago, the Cayos Holandéses are lined with white-sand beaches and palm trees.  The water is warm and crystal clear.  There isn’t much to do here besides relax on the beach, swim, or snorkel.  There is impressive coral in some areas, and dolphins are occasionally seen in the surrounding waters.

If you are looking for a place without tourists, and want a pristine tropical island to relax, ask your Captain to head here.

The 3 Best Beaches In San Blas

The Guna’s indigenous territory also called the San Blas Islands, are spectacular, with hundreds of small islands with white sand Panama beaches and crystal clear water.  While only 50 are inhabited, experiencing the Guna culture is an added benefit.

Our three top Panama beaches in this region are

• Isla Perro ⭐⭐⭐⭐- A wonderful beach, fabulous water, a sunken boat providing a second reef to snorkel, and several facilities.  While it’s a popular place, it is still one of the top spots in the San Blas Islands.
• Aguja Island ⭐⭐⭐⭐- It has some of the best-developed \services of anywhere in San Blas.  It also has a spacious white sand beach, one of the longest in the San Blas archipelago.
• Islas Maqui ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Provides the white sand beaches and the crystal clear water, without any services, for a more remote experience of the San Blas Islands.

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Top 10 Beaches In Panama

We’ve covered the top 52 beaches in Panama across 6 coastal regions of Panama.  But which are the top beaches in Panama?

1. Rancheria Island (Coibita), Coiba, Gulf of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – A genuinely amazing beach and tropical paradise.  Fabulous water to relax in or swim and powder white sand.  Doesn’t get any better than this.

2. Playa Punta Chame at the Playa Caracol project ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐- A fabulous beach in Panama.  Unspoiled, expansive white sand, pristine tropical setting, and a surfers paradise.

3. Playa Venao, Pedasi ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – a gorgeous stretch of blackish volcanic sand, a small thriving community and services, and a laid-back surfer vibe atmosphere. 

4. Coiba Island, INAM Ranger Station, Gulf of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐⭐1/2 – Truly one of the best beaches in Panama.  A UNESCO World Heritage Site, with fantastic wildlife, in a pristine natural setting, on an island in the Gulf of Chiriquí.  The unspoiled white sand beach and the crystal clear water make it a paradise

5. Playa Las Lajas, Gulf of Chiriquí ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Playa Las Lajas is possibly the best of our beaches in Panama, not to get 5 stars.  Fifteen km of sand without mass tourism, but with a few accommodations, restaurants, and services, you can have a great vacation.   Like Playa Caracol, except for surfing, Las Lajas is a great place to bring the family for a fabulous beach vacation in an unspoiled setting.

6. Playa Larga, Isla Contadora ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – An excellent option for a beautiful beach, with ferry service from Panama City

7. Bluff Beach, Isla Colon, Bocas Del Toro ⭐⭐⭐⭐- Simply, it’s the best beach on Isla Colon (the main Island of Bocas).  It’s long, has great sand, and is beautiful.  As elsewhere, throughout a lot of Bocas, the sea can be rough at times.

8. Aguja Island, San Blas Islands ⭐⭐⭐⭐- It has some of the best-developed services of anywhere in San Blas.  It also has a spacious white sand beach, one of the longest in the San Blas archipelago.

9. Playa Los Destiladeros, Pedasi ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – one of the best beaches in Panama.  The tropical jungle frames the extensive beach to give it a majestic feel. 

10. Punta Chame Fishing Village ⭐⭐⭐⭐- One of the best of the ‘off-the-beaten-path’ beaches in Panama.  A remarkable natural setting, a quaint community, and a haven for windsurfers and kite surfers.

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Final Thoughts – 52 Best Beaches In Panama

With 470 miles (760) km of the Caribbean coastline to the north and 760 miles (1,225 km) of the Pacific coastline to the south for a small country the size of Panama, this is a vast coastline.  And there are literally hundreds of beaches in Panama.  Our ultimate guide provides information on the top 52 Panama beaches (one for every week of the year), along with when to visit them.  So when planning your vacation or excursion, you know what to expect and can select the best of the best beaches in Panama to explore.

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