The best beaches to visit in Panama
From beguiling Caribbean shores to vivacious Pacific waves, the best beaches in Panama offer serene escapes, natural wonders, and world-class surfing.
The best beaches in Panama create a colorful palette of yellow-gold, pearly black, and snow-white sands, caressed by crystal-clear turquoise waters and framed by swaying emerald palms. On the Caribbean side, you’ll find calm, glassy seas perfect for snorkeling and underwater exploration, while the Pacific coast boasts powerful waves that draw surfers from around the world. Panama has an abundance of ecological reserves and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with delightful beaches of the kind you see on screen.
If you’re looking for a secluded island escape, vibrant seaside vibes, or an adventurous surf spot, you’ll find it in Panama’s beaches, set against a backdrop of glorious summer or winter sunshine. You don’t have to rule out the rainy months—after all, they can bring clear mornings and refreshing afternoon showers. Pack your water shoes, surfboard, sunscreen, and beachside snacks, then embark on amazing coastal activities and discoveries. Here’s your guide to Panama’s best beaches and nicest beach towns you won’t want to miss.
01
A city escape at Restinga Beach, Taboga Island
For a beach getaway from Panama City, head for Restinga Beach on Taboga Island. Taboga is also known as the “Island of Flowers” for its lush, tropical vegetation. It’s just a short ferry ride (about 30 minutes) from Panama City, but when you arrive, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles from the hustle and bustle, even though you can still glimpse the city in the distance. The calm, shallow waters that greet you are perfect for swimming and relaxing, and a deep sense of tranquility abounds.
Restinga is a rare double-sided sliver of beach with sloping sands and gentle waves, where the waters face the mainland on one side and the island on the other. On the Morro Island side, there are ruins and shipwrecks to explore on a snorkeling or diving adventure, or you could try kayaking or boating. Restinga Beach is also ideal if you’d like to combine beach time and hiking or mountain biking, with trails that lead up the island’s rugged hills—tough going, but worth it.
To get to Restinga Beach, take a ferry or private boat from Panama City’s Amador Causeway to Taboga Island. The boat ride offers gorgeous views across the Pacific Ocean and Panama City’s skyline. Once on the island, Restinga Beach is easily accessible from the main dock by a short stroll. If you buy a ticket for the Taboga Express ferry, look out for Taboga Island day pass offers. You could bundle in beach umbrellas and seating as well as a tasty lunch, a trip to the island’s peaks, and a bilingual guided tour of island history, including San Pedro, the second oldest church in Latin America.
Restinga Beach is popular with locals, and it gets busier from Friday afternoon onward, so if you’re looking for a quieter experience, try visiting on a weekday morning. There are lots of fish bars and grills a short walk from the beach, and a longer stroll will bring you to charming village streets, colorful houses, and more restaurants.
A food lover’s guide to Panama
02
Miles of white sand at Santa Clara Beach
Along Panama’s Riviera Pacifica lies Santa Clara Beach, a serene stretch of snow-white sand, framed by swaying palm trees and the tranquil Pacific Ocean. It’s the place to go if you’re seeking a relaxed day by the sea, with opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying nature’s beauty. The beach offers spectacular views of the nearby hills and is a popular choice for families, couples, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat. Even on weekends when the beach is filled with vibrant reggae beats and lively games of soccer, it’s wide enough to let you find your own oasis of calm.
The area surrounding Santa Clara Beach is home to several spa hotels, beachfront cabanas, and vacation apartment rentals, so there’s a wide choice of accommodation. For a down-to-earth experience, you could also pitch a tent on the shore or even rent a hammock to recline and enjoy the salty breezes in the most authentic way. There are a few casual beachside restaurants nearby serving fresh seafood and local dishes, great for savoring a meal with a view.
Those in search of activities in Santa Clara will not be disappointed. Water sports enthusiasts are well catered for with opportunities for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. If you’re interested in exploring the surrounding areas, take a short drive to Farallon or Playa Blanca and browse fresh produce in local markets.
Santa Clara Beach is situated in the Coclé Province, about a two-hour drive from Panama City. To reach the beach, take the Pan-American Highway west from Panama City and turn off toward Río Hato. Consider planning your visit during the dry season (January through April) to find the calmest, clearest waters. Rainy days can bring rough surf and a powerful undertow, so take care if you get there during Panama’s rainy season (May through December).
Panama travel guides
03
Surfing adventures at Venao Beach
If you ask Panamanians to recommend a surfers’ hotspot, the chances are they’ll name Venao Beach. Located on the Azuero Peninsula near the town of Pedasi, Venao Beach was once a hidden gem, but over the years, it has transformed into a lively yet still unspoiled surfing destination. The beach stretches for over two miles, providing plenty of space to enjoy the ocean. With its long crescent-shaped bay, black sands, and powerful Pacific waves that are consistent year-round, the beach is a haven for surfers of all levels from all over the world.
It’s not all about catching waves here. Beyond the surf scene, the beach offers a relaxed, bohemian vibe. It’s a fabulous place to unwind, connect with nature, and watch the sunset over the Pacific. Visitors can enjoy a number of activities in Venao Beach, including exploring nearby waterfalls, horseback riding, or hiking through the verdant hills of the Azuero Peninsula.
You could also try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or deep-sea fishing. Wildlife enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either—the beach is surrounded by lush greenery, and you could wander to the wildlife refuge of nearby Isla Iguana.
Venao Beach may be growing in popularity, but it still has charming small-town vibes. You’ll find down-to-earth lodges and surf camps in the area as well as stylish Panama resorts and eco-hotels dedicated to sustainable comfort and luxury.
The journey from Panama City to Venao Beach takes you to the end of the Azuero Peninsula, absorbing beautiful scenery along the way. Public transportation is limited, but private shuttles are available. You’ll find the best surf conditions during the dry season (January through April), but don’t write off the rainy season, with its lush landscape and quieter atmosphere.
04
Historic beauty at Huerta Beach, Portobelo
Looking for a lesser-known Panama beach that’s full of old-world charm and rustic beauty? Try Huerta Beach, just outside Portobelo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a history that dates back to the Spanish colonial era. Huerta Beach stands out for its tranquil ambiance and wonderful authenticity. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a past time: a world before mass tourism, a land framed by rustling palm trees and gently lapping waves.
Surrounded by wild tropical rainforest, this small and secluded beach has golden sands, crystalline waters, a large playground area, and vibrant coral reefs. It’s a peaceful retreat whether you’re seeking relaxation on the sandor a portal to adventures in nature. Snorkeling at Huerta Beach will introduce you to fascinating marine life in its natural habitat, including multi-colored fish, rays, and sea turtles.
If you prefer to explore on land, the surrounding forest provides amazing scenery for a nature-filled day. Discover the wonders of hiking and birdwatching in Portobelo National Park, and uncover the ruins of Spanish forts, a restored treasure house, and Sir Francis Drake’s burial place.
You can reach Huerta Beach by boat from Portobelo, or follow the unpaved trails that lead from the town to the beach. It’s a bit off the beaten track, which is part of the fun. As there are few facilities at the beach, be sure to pack sunscreen and a beach umbrella for shade. There are limited rental options for snorkeling equipment, so you might want to bring your own gear. You’ll also find seafood snacks and coconut drinks for sale if you’d like to sample some local flavors on the beach. For an amazing photoopp, don’t miss the breathtaking sunset over the untamed landscape.
05
A tropical paradise at Starfish Beach, Bocas del Toro
Located on the picturesque Isla Colón in Bocas del Toro, Starfish Beach is a haven of turquoise waters and soft white sands. The beach gets its name from the numerous cushion starfish you’ll spot in the shallow waters near the shore and in the wild mangroves that line the beach. There’s something majestic about these humble creatures, and they provide great backdrops for star-studded selfies—as long as you admire them from afar. Put on a mask and snorkel if you’d like a closer look, but be sure not to touch them or make too much noise—starfish are sensitive to vibrations and shouldn’t be moved.
As well as starfish spotting, there are lots of authentic Caribbean experiences waiting for you at Starfish Beach. For a start, it’s one of the best beaches on the island for swimming. You could take a refreshing dip in the calm waters, or just lie on the powdery sand and soak in the natural beauty of your surroundings. If you’re looking for more than just a beach day, consider a guided snorkeling or scuba diving adventure to explore the colorful coral reefs nearby. If you’re lucky, you might even spot manatees or dolphins.
Starfish Beach is on the leeward side of Isla Colón, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustle of lively Bocas Town. You can reach the beach aboard a minibus bound for Playa Boca del Drago, then stroll along a rugged trail for about 15 minutes. Or take a water taxi and enjoy scenic views of the island on your ride.
If you’re visiting during the dry season (January through April), the waters are typically calmer and clearer, offering the best visibility for snorkeling. For a quieter experience, arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon. In wetter months (May through December), consider hiring an ATV, as the path can grow slippery.
You can plan the ultimate beach adventure, explore some of the most beautiful coastal spots to unwind, and discover the best beachside places to stay in Panama along the way.
Images courtesy of Visit Panama.
Panama hotel deals
