17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Panama

After traveling around Panama for three months, I was lucky enough to uncover its most breathtaking spots – from cool surf resorts and hidden secret islands to quirky mountain retreats and incredible dive sites. I’ve listed my favorite places…

1. San Blas Islands

I was completely in awe of these pristine idyllic islands! The scenery here consists of dazzling turquoise waters, soft white sandy beaches, and traditional thatched-roof huts – to me it felt like an escape from the modern world! 

• Location: off the northern coast of the country in the Guna Yala region.
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: January to April (the dry season)

My favorite highlights…

• Spending a night in an Instagram-worthy over-water cabin which had a very natural looking rustic-chic design which really fit in with the undeveloped vibe and restrictions of the islands. 
• Going on a 4-day island hopping boat tour which was a seriously dreamy experience – it was awesome to meet up with a local Kuna family (who were super friendly) and find out all about their very interesting way of life! 
• Going snorkeling and seeing colorful coral reefs, brightly colored parrotfish which had hues of blues, greens, reds, pinks, oranges, and yellows! 

2. Panama City

I thought this was such a unique city! Although the capital city did have a very business-focused feel, I discovered many beautiful aspects such as the striking skyline of modern high-rises which sat side-by-side with the historic architecture of Casco Viejo, the scenic urban beaches that lined the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. The whole place also had a dynamic and very cosmopolitan feel! 

I spent four days here and explored the historic Casco Viejo district, visited the Panama Canal at the Miraflores Locks, sampled the nightlife in the lively Calle Uruguay area, enjoyed gorgeous panoramic views from Ancon Hill, went people-watching in Plaza Mayor and then recharged my batteries in its cosmopolitan restaurants and bars!

• Location: east-central part of the country 
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous and unique Hotel La Compania – I absolutely adored its superb Casco Viejo location and the 17th-century Jesuit convent building it was housed in! 
• Checking out the large Artisan Market which was filled with handcrafted products – I ended up buying organic home-made soaps, locally made pottery and colorful local artwork. 

3. Bocas del Toro

Both a popular backpacking and holiday destination, this stunning archipelago was filled with natural beauty! I found vividly painted Caribbean-style wooden buildings, tropical vegetation, and dreamy beaches ranging from serene white sands to dramatic, wave-swept shores.

I stayed for four days after flying directly from Panama City (which took an hour), snorkeled in the clear waters at Coral Cay, tried surfing at Red Frog Beach (even though I wasn’t much good!), explored the rainforests of Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, and sampled the lively nightlife in Bocas Town.

• Location: northwest, near the border with Costa Rica
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: February and March (the driest months)

My personal highlights…

• Staying in a heavenly overwater bungalow at the eco-friendly Sol Bungalows – waking up to the ocean views every morning from the private deck was a truly idyllic experience! 
• Renting an E-bike (from Flying Pirates Bocas) and riding around Bocas Town before heading to the stunning Playa Bluff beach for sunset.
• Going snorkeling in Cayo Coral and seeing stingrays, crabs, colorful tropical fish, spectacular coral reefs and unique underwater gardens.

4. Playa Venao

I was a big fan of this dreamy, laid-back gem! I found an expansive crescent-shaped beach with golden sands surrounded by tropical-forest hillsides, and dotted with low-rise, rustic buildings. I also loved its surf-focused and boho, eco-friendly vibe and how it was filled with excellent surfing conditions, lively beach bars, and beachfront restaurants.

I stayed for two weeks and didn’t get bored! I spent it kicking back, sunbathing on the long, wide sandy beach, taking a swim in the warm sea, dining at the funky beach restaurants (many had DJs too!) and sipping on cocktails in the open-air bars while gazing at the waves!

• Location: southern coast on the Azuero Peninsula 
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: end of December to middle April (the dry season)

My highlights…

• Staying at the wow-inducing Alaya Yoga & Surf & Retreat – I loved the Insta-worthy pods, the incredible views, the dreamy private hot tub and the zen-like yoga classes!
• Enjoying a melon cocktail while watching the sunset at the popular Selina’s Beach Bar – there were also some lively beach parties (complete with a DJ) after dark too!

5. Casco Viejo

This is a attractive historic area in Panama City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site! I thought it was both pretty and charming with cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings and easy-on-the-eye plazas. I loved its mix old-world charm and modern energy and lively street markets, trendy cafes, and buzzing nightlife.

I stayed here for two days at the historic colonial boutique American Trade Hotel and explored the colorful colonial buildings, visited the historic San José church, sipped on Pineapple Basil Daiquiris cocktails in the rooftop bars while gazing at the skyline (my favorite was the cool Casa Casco), and strolled through charming Plaza de la Independencia.

• Location: Panama City
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (the dry season) 

My personal highlights…

• Sipping on a cup of coffee made from the famous locally grown geisha beans at the trendy Nomada Eatery – I also loved the funky art displayed on the walls. 

6. Pearl Islands

This pristine archipelago once served as the set for the Survivor (the reality show)! Here I found powdery white-sand beaches, gorgeous turquoise waters, and charming seaside villas in a tropical environment with a tranquil and exclusive vibe with a mix of with upscale resorts, and activities on offer including snorkeling, diving, and whale watching.

I took the 20-minute flight from Panama City and stayed for a week at the dreamy Mar Y Oro Resort and snorkeled and dived the spectacular coral reefs, relaxed on my favorite secluded beach Isla Contadora, and discovered the lush forests and marine life around Isla del Rey.

• Location:off the Pacific coast in the south
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (the dry season)

My personal highlights…

• Dining at the laid back Restaurante Gerald’s – on the paradise-like Contadora Island – I especially loved the Mango Mojito and the delicious tropical salad Panama style which came with mixed greens, herbs and slices of mango, pineapple, and papaya.

7. Boquete

This is a very popular destination! I have to admit I was charmed by its tranquil and small town vibe as well as the gorgeous scenery which consisted of mountainous terrain cloaked in emerald-green coffee plantations and cloud forests and dotted with pretty alpine-style architecture.

It was home to a cool climate, lush landscapes, world-class coffee plantations, and being a destination for outdoor activities like hiking, bird watching, and the annual Flower and Coffee Festival.

• Location: Chiriquí Province, west
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (dry season)

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the super-cute 4-star Inn at Palo Alto – I loved its location along the banks of the Palo Alto River, its lush green gardens, the handcrafted woodwork decor, the cloud forest views and the eucalyptus-scented spa, pool and jacuzzi, it was hard to leave! 

8. Gulf of Chiriquí

This large bay located off the Pacific coast is just like a paradise! I found out it was a real beauty spot with a mix of pristine, secluded white and volcanic sand beaches, lush, untouched islands, and quaint coastal villages with rustic architecture, all set against a backdrop of vibrant marine ecosystems and dramatic tropical landscapes. I found it the perfect place to disconnect and immerse myself in pristine nature!

I found that it included several protected areas including the a UNESCO World Heritage site, Coiba National Park, and a number of islands (with the city of David serving as a primary access point). It’s home to incredible diving and snorkeling I saw mostly eco-tourists and adventure seekers here and accommodation options ranged from eco-lodges to boutique hotels.

I took a boat tour from Boca Chica and stayed for a week at the stunningly located Seagull Cove Resort and as well as snorkeling and soaking up the gorgeous surroundings I had an awesome experience seeing super-cute sea turtles nesting on a beach!

• Location: west, near the border of Costa Rica
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (dry season)

My favorite highlights…

• Snorkeling around Granito de Oro Island and seeing manta rays, reef sharks, green turtles and tropical fish circle the brightly colored coral reefs.

9. Soberania National Park

An important site for both ecological research and birdwatching, this is a very accessible protected area! It’s filled with green rainforests, the historic Camino de Cruces hiking trail and a tranquil, adventurous vibe. There are beaches here but there was a variety of stunning natural landscapes and well-preserved colonial-era structures with eco-lodges, rainforest resorts, basic guesthouses, and the unique Canopy Tower.

I drove 45 minutes from the capital on a day trip and paid the $5 entrance fee. I went wildlife spotting on a Monkey Island boat tour, saw incredible panoramic views from the Rainforest Discovery Center’s observation tower, and explored the rainforest on the Plantation Trail.

• Location: central part of the mainland
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (dry season)

My favorite highlights…

• Going for a swim in the cooling natural pools of the El Charco Trail known as “El Charco,” and then going for a picnic by the pools before heading back.

10. Santa Catalina

This small, remote coastal town is known as being the best surfing destinations in the country! It’s also a gorgeous, tranquil spot with pristine black and white sand beaches, clear waters with mighty waves up to 10 meters high, unique jungle surroundings, and charming rustic buildings. 

I saw that it mostly attracted surfers, backpackers, divers and snorkelers and accommodation included budget-friendly hostels, rustic surf camps, eco-lodges, mid-range guesthouses, and boutique hotels. 

I drove 4 hours from Boquete and kicked back for a week at the boho-style 4-star retreat at the Villa Coco and went snorkeling and diving in Coiba National Park, went kayaking, and even had time to explore the jungle trails. 

• Location: Veraguas Province, south
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

• Watching the surfers tackle the hugely impressive swells at La Punta Beach was exhilarating – I perched on the rocky edge near the palm-dotted point and sat for a whole hour!

11. Isla Taboga

This small volcanic island is also known as the “Island of Flowers!” I personally thought it was a dreamy place with tropical greenery, colorful colonial buildings, and pristine sandy beaches from secluded coves to expansive shores. 

I took a day trip here by taking the 30 minute ferry ride from the Amador Causeway in Panama City and that was enough time to explore the historic San Pedro Church, hike up Cerro de la Cruz (which had superb panoramic views), relax on the beaches and spot brown pelicans!

• Location: 12 miles off the coast of Panama City
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

• Strolling through the quiet Spanish-settled village of San Pedro – I loved the pretty colorful colonial-style houses, meeting the friendly locals and browsing the hand crafted wood carvings, textiles and local artwork.

12. El Valle de Antón

This is picturesque town uniquely nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano! It’s filled with charming, rustic buildings surrounded by verdant volcanic mountains, cascading waterfalls, and near serene, unspoiled beaches. I loved the peaceful, small-town where time seemed to slow.

It had a cool climate, rich biodiversity, and attractions such as thermal springs, waterfalls and healing mud pools with a unique mineral composition. 

I took the 3 hour bus ride from Panama City and stayed for four days at the nearby stunning hacienda-style Hotel La Compania Del Valle. I went hiking the trails to Cerro Gaital and India Dormida, visiting the thermal springs and waterfalls (my favourite was the Chorro El Macho) exploring the interesting artisan market, and spotting the rare golden frog which resides here!

• Location: centre of the country, Coclé Province.
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (the dry season)

My highlights…

• Crossing the high suspension bridge through the rainforest and then hiking 30 minutes along the trail to reach the stunning El Macho Waterfall. 
• Visiting the lively farmer’s market (which was open seven days a week) and sampling the local food and produce – I especially loved the thin deep-fried plantains and trying a passion fruit chicha (a traditional Panamanian beverage). 

13. Sunset Coast, Azuero Peninsula

This stretch of coastline is home to seriously beautiful sunsets! It’s a unspoiled and strikingly stunning spot where I found traditional Spanish colonial architecture, quaint fishing villages, pristine beaches and a rich biodiversity, including dry forests and coastal mangroves. The vibe here feels remote and I was take in by its laid-back, boho vibe and popular with eco-tourists and those who love cultural immersion! 

I drove 4 hours from Panama City and spent a very laid-back two weeks watching surfing at Playa Venao, exploring the traditional villages of Cañas, Mariato and then stayed in the laid-back gem Casa Lajagua for a week in Pedasí. I hiked through dry forests and mangroves, and enjoyed breathtaking sunsets over the unspoilt beaches! 

• Location: south
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

• Renting a TORQ Funboard from Shokogi Rentals and having awesome fun on the waves! 

14. Los Cangilones

This fun natural volcanic rock canyon made a great day trip from Panama City! When I got there, I found a dramatic volcanic rock canyon, very clear turquoise waters which attracted adventurous swimmers, and smooth stone ledges which made perfect places for relaxing.

I drove here from Boquete, which took just 40 minutes. After picking up some picnic supplies at the local supermarket, it was only a 15-minute walk along a slightly rugged but well-marked trail to the canyon. I spent the afternoon swimming, relaxing, and exploring the striking canyon.

• Location: Gualaca 
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (the dry season)

My favorite highlights…

• Watching the braver visitors jump off the rocks (which ranged from 6 to 15 feet!) into the aqua-marine waters below!
• Swimming through the cool and refreshing canyon waters which stretched across 40 meters.

15. Punta Chame

This is a narrow, sandy and very picturesque peninsula on the Pacific coast! I was totally won over by the long, windswept white-sand beaches surrounded by sparkling turquoise waters, charming beachfront accommodation, unspoiled landscapes and a laid-back, breezy vibe with world-class kitesurfing conditions! 

I drove 90 minutes from Panama City and stayed for a few days watching the kite-surfers, having an interesting kayaking experience in the nearby mangroves and relaxing at the cute local beachfront eateries! 

• Location: Chame District, Panamá Oeste Province
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (the dry season)

My personal highlights…

• Watching the kite-surfers at Punta Chame Beach and also from the comfort of the 4-star Nitro City Resort (which had an awesome view)! 

16. Isla Grande

This is a vibrant island gem! I thought it was very attractive with glittering turquoise waters, dreamy palm-lined beaches, and colorful Afro-Caribbean houses. I saw that it attracted snorkelers, scuba divers, backpackers and adventure seekers. 

I drove Panama City which took 3 hours and then it was just a 10 minute boat ride, I stayed for four days for Ordovician Beach Resort and spent it snorkeling, swimming, hiking to the El Faro lighthouse which had panoramic island views, and immersing myself in the lively Afro-Caribbean culture with its music, food, and colorful traditions! 

• Location: Portobelo District, Colón Province
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: December to April (dry season)

My highlights…

• Sipping on a Caipirinha cocktail at the fun The OC Bar & Lounge – I also was a big fan of the dreamy Caribbean Ocean views and the very welcoming brother and sister owners! 

17. Panama Canal

This is regarded as one of the modern engineering wonders of the world! I hate to admit I was also in awe of it and it was great to see the huge Miraflores Locks and sprawling canal set against the lush tropical surroundings.

I observed the canal and ships from the northeast of Panama City, near the walls of the enormous seven-hundred-ton sluice gates at Miraflores Locks and then visited the interesting Panama Canal Museum in Casco Viejo, where I learnt all about it’s fascinating history!

• Location: runs from Colón to Panama City
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: all year round

My personal highlights…

• Exploring the impressive four-story interactive Miraflores Visitor Center – it was great way to learn about the canal’s interesting history as well as having a really close-up view of ships being raised and lowered over 85 feet when they passed through the locks!