Beaches in Panama are a big reason for people to both visit and relocate to the country. Panama is famous for its incredible biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and, of course, its spectacular coastline. With two coasts—one on the Pacific Ocean and another on the Caribbean Sea—Panama offers a wide variety of beaches that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a serene tropical escape or a bustling beach town, the beaches in Panama provide the perfect setting for a memorable experience.
If you’re new to living in Panama or considering relocating, visiting the country’s most beautiful beaches is a must. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 beaches in Panama, showcasing what makes each one special for both visitors and future residents.
Playa Venao (Pacific Coast)
Located on the Azuero Peninsula, Playa Venao is a long, crescent-shaped beach that is renowned for its surf-friendly waves and laid-back atmosphere. This beach has gained popularity in recent years among surfers and digital nomads alike, offering consistent waves, beautiful sunsets, and a friendly expat community.
Playa Venao is also known for its luxurious beachfront accommodations, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re visiting for a surf trip or looking to settle in a coastal town with modern amenities, Playa Venao is one of the best beaches in Panama for those seeking a blend of adventure and comfort.
Red Frog Beach (Caribbean Coast)
Red Frog Beach is located on Isla Bastimentos, part of the Bocas del Toro archipelago on Panama’s Caribbean side. Named after the tiny red frogs found in the surrounding rainforest, this beach is a tropical paradise with powdery white sand, crystal-clear water, and lush jungle backdrops.
Red Frog Beach is perfect for those looking to relax in an eco-friendly environment, but it also offers plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring nearby trails. The island is car-free, adding to its unspoiled charm. If you’re drawn to the idea of living close to nature, Red Frog Beach is an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure alike.
Playa Santa Clara (Pacific Coast)
If you’re looking for a more tranquil beach, Playa Santa Clara offers calm waters, soft white sand, and a relaxed atmosphere. Located about 90 minutes from Panama City, this beach is a favorite weekend getaway for locals and expats alike.
The waters at Playa Santa Clara are generally calm, making it a great place for swimming and paddleboarding. The beach is lined with quaint cabins and small resorts, providing a perfect retreat for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific without the crowds. For future residents, Playa Santa Clara offers a peaceful, low-key lifestyle while still being within easy reach of the capital.
Isla Contadora (Pearl Islands, Pacific Coast)
Isla Contadora, part of the Pearl Islands in the Pacific, is a favorite beach destination for Panama’s more affluent residents, but it’s also accessible for visitors and newcomers. The island is known for its white-sand beaches, clear waters, and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
With its proximity to Panama City—just a short plane ride or ferry away—Isla Contadora is perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. There are several luxurious resorts and vacation rentals on the island, and many expats choose to make it their permanent or seasonal home due to its natural beauty and exclusive ambiance.
Playa Estrella (Caribbean Coast)
Also known as Starfish Beach, Playa Estrella is located on Isla Colón in the Bocas del Toro archipelago. True to its name, this beach is famous for the large number of starfish that inhabit its shallow, calm waters.
Playa Estrella’s serene atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and abundance of marine life make it a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. It’s also a family-friendly beach, with shallow water perfect for young children. For those considering a move to Bocas del Toro, Playa Estrella offers a glimpse of the relaxed, island lifestyle that makes this region so attractive to expats.
Playa Las Lajas (Pacific Coast)
Stretching for over 8 miles, Playa Las Lajas is one of the longest beaches in Panama and offers a peaceful, undeveloped setting. Located in the Chiriquí Province, Las Lajas is ideal for beach lovers who prefer quieter, less crowded destinations.
This beach is perfect for long walks, picnics, and swimming in the gentle waves. While relatively undeveloped, there are a few beachfront accommodations and restaurants that cater to tourists and expats looking for a tranquil escape. Playa Las Lajas is also an excellent option for retirees seeking a peaceful and affordable coastal retreat.
Isla Coiba (Pacific Coast)
Isla Coiba, part of Coiba National Park, is one of the most pristine natural environments in Panama. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and an extraordinary array of marine life. Coiba is a dream destination for divers, with vibrant coral reefs, manta rays, sea turtles, and whale sharks frequently seen in the waters around the island.
While Isla Coiba is relatively remote and less developed compared to other beaches in Panama, it’s perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The park’s eco-lodges and ranger stations provide basic accommodations for those who wish to explore this untouched paradise.
Playa Coronado (Pacific Coast)
Playa Coronado is one of the most popular beach towns among expats and retirees in Panama. Located just an hour and a half from Panama City, this well-developed beach community offers a mix of luxurious beachfront homes, high-rise condos, and a wide range of services.
With its clean, golden sand, warm waters, and abundance of recreational activities, Playa Coronado is ideal for both vacationers and those considering permanent relocation. Coronado has a large expat community, making it easy for newcomers to integrate, and the town’s modern amenities—such as supermarkets, hospitals, and golf courses—add to its appeal.
Isla Taboga (Pacific Coast)
Known as the Island of Flowers, Isla Taboga is located just 30 minutes by ferry from Panama City, making it a popular beach destination for both locals and tourists. The island is famous for its charming village, clear waters, and lush hills covered in tropical flowers.
Visitors can relax on Taboga’s beaches, explore its hiking trails, or take a boat tour around the island. The proximity to Panama City makes Isla Taboga a perfect spot for a quick getaway, but its peaceful environment and affordability also make it an attractive option for those looking to buy property near the capital.
Playa Blanca (Pacific Coast)
Playa Blanca, located in the Coclé Province, is known for its stunning white-sand beaches and calm, turquoise waters. The area is home to several all-inclusive resorts and is a popular destination for tourists and expats alike.
Playa Blanca offers a resort-style living experience with a variety of water sports, restaurants, and nightlife. The nearby town of Río Hato has been developing rapidly, with new shopping centers and residential developments making Playa Blanca a viable option for those looking to live close to the beach while still enjoying modern conveniences.
Discover the Best Beaches in Panama
With its tropical climate, diverse coastlines, and a wide range of amenities, beaches in Panama offer something for every kind of traveler or future resident. Whether you’re drawn to the surf-friendly shores of Playa Venao, the tranquil waters of Playa Santa Clara, or the pristine beauty of Isla Coiba, Panama’s beaches provide endless opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and the possibility of calling this beautiful country your home.
As you explore these top 10 beaches, you’ll discover why so many expats and retirees choose Panama for their new home or vacation retreat. Whether you’re visiting to test the waters or planning to make a permanent move, Panama’s beaches will leave you captivated and eager to return. To learn more about beaches in Panama, contact us here.
