Panama’s Waterfront Paradise

Panama is a country that links Central and South America.  Perhaps Panama is most famous for the “Panama Canal”, one of the seven wonders of the world, however, it is also “a sea lover’s dream,” because it provides a truly unique beach experience with coasts on the Pacific and Caribbean oceans. With over 1,800 miles of coastline and more than 1,400 islands and cays, the country is renowned for world-class surfing, fishing, and diving, welcoming both first-timers and seasoned adventurers. 

Here’s a guide to some of Panama’s best waterfront destinations.

1. Panama Canal

One of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World, the Panama Canal is arguably the most famous attraction in Panama and is a must-see for anyone visiting the country.

Quick Facts:

1. The canal is over 100 years old! 2014 marked the 100 year anniversary since the opening of the Panama Canal.
2. It’s considered one of the man-made wonders of the world by the American Society of Civil Engineers.
3. Over $2 billion dollars of tolls are collected annually. These tolls are set by the Panama Canal Authority with tolls for the largest cargo ships running $450,000!
4. Over 1 million vessels have passed through the canal since it opened.

How to Get There: From downtown Panama City, the Miraflores Visitor Center is just a 15-minute drive whereas the Agua Clara Locks are a 1-hour drive from the capital.

Local Attractions:

• Miraflores Visitor Center: The Miraflores Vistor Center is a four-story interactive museum that offers an up-close look of the Miraflores locks and an arms-length panoramic view of the various ships travelling through the canal.

• Daytrip to Casa Casco Viejo: Explore this historic district and see colorful Spanish colonial architecture and historical churches comingle with boutiques, bars and restaurants representing a melting pot of cultures. Casa Viejo dates back to the 17th century and is a UNESCO site.

Where to Stay:

• Miramar International: A luxury hotel that overlooks the Pacific Ocean and the bay of Panama. The Miramar International is walking distance to Panama’s financial centre and close to the shopping district. Moreover, each suite is elegant, spacious and has breathtaking ocean views ideally situated to watch ships and vessels enter the world-famous Panama Canal.
• Hilton Panama: Stay just a kilometer from downtown Panama City with stunning waterfront views, easy access to the Cinta Costera, and top attractions like Casco Viejo and Multiplaza Mall. The hotel also offers a rooftop pool, spa and Starbay Casino.

Where to Eat:

• Miraflores Restaurant: Located on the second floor of the Miraflores Vistor Centre, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of the ships passing through canal and delicious buffet style food.
• Assisi Restarant: The go-to destination for an amazing meal in Panama City, the restaurant is well-known for its great ambiance, food and speedy service.

2. Bocas del Toro

A tropical paradise known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant nightlife, Bocas del Toro offers endless opportunities for surfing, snorkelling, and island hopping. With pristine beaches and lush rainforests, it’s easy to see why the archipelago is a dream destination for adventurous travellers and backpackers alike.

Quick Facts:

1. More than 17 countries filmed the surivor series in the Archipelago
2. Bocas del Toro has 9 main islands, 52 cays and hundreds of islets. 
3. In 1502 Christopher Columbus passed around the island while restocking his ships and named the main island Isla Colon after himself.
4. Bocas del Toro has some of the largest rainforests in Central America
5. Bocas del Toro is well-known in Panama for its nightlife and unique backpacking destinations

How to Get There: To get to Bocas del Toro, fly from Marcos A. Gelabert Airport in Albrook (close to Panama City) to Captain Jose Ezequiel Hall International Airport in Bocas Town, Colon Island. Or take the 10-12 Hour Bus from the Albrook Bus Station.

Local Attractions:

• Starfish Beach: Starfish Beach offers crystal clear warm water and hundreds of giant starfish relaxing in the shallows. Spend a morning relaxing, snorkelling and enjoying nature on one of the world’s most unique beaches. The beach also has a few restaurants and bars so you can enjoy lunch there.
• Zapatilla Islands: One of Bocas del Toro’s number one tourist destinations, the Zapatilla Islands offer peace and seclusion. The cays are a protected nature area for sea turtle breeding and are a part of Bastimentos National Park. There is no infrastructure for tourists, leaving it completely pristine. There are countless beaches with fine white sand and clear water, but no eateries or stores.

Where to Stay:

• Red Frog Beach Island Resort: Red Frog Beach Island Resort offers a private beach and breathtaking views of the Caribbean. This place offers an unparalleled vacation experience because of its rich heritage, Caribbean lifestyle, enduring culture, and beautiful surroundings, all of which are very similar to those of several hundred years ago.
• Selina Bocas del Toro: Situated on the Panamanian archipelago’s main island, just 500 meters from the airport, Selina Bocas del Toro’s waterfront destination is centrally located and the place to be if you want to party! Grab a spot by the waterfront and satisfy your senses with some spicy tacos, enjoy a leisurely brunch, sip on cocktails, and find your Caribbean rhythm as you dance to the sounds of live music from local bands.

Where to Eat:

• El Ultimo Refugio: a Caribbean-fusion restaurant with an ever-changing menu based on the availability of fresh local ingredients.
• The Blue Coconut: Come and join the party, relax in a water hammock or snorkel our Caribbean reef at the Blue Coconut.  The restaurant offers a fantastic drink and food menu as well as Seafood Sunday and Sunday BBQ Parties.

3. Pearl Islands

Originally a hotspot for the rich and famous, the Pearl Islands offer an accessible experience for those who wish to experience the area’s incredible natural beauty. Expect to find beautiful white sand beaches, opportunities for scuba diving and whale watching, as well as well-preserved nature and marine life.

Quick Facts:

1. An archipelago consists of over 200 islands and islets—mostly uninhabited—off the Pacific coast in the Gulf of Panama.
2. Located about 80 kilometres (50 miles) southeast of Panama City.
3. The islands are a common spot for fisherman due to the bountiful marine life surrounding the island.

How to Get There: To get to the Pearl Islands from Panama City, fly from the capital to Contadora Island. You could also take the ferry, which usually takes about an hour and a half, departing from Punta Pacífica or the Amador Causeway.

Local Attractions:

• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The Pearl Islands are well-known for having a wide variety of marine species as well as some of the ocean’s giants, such the majestic humpback whale. As a result, it is among the best places in Panama for scuba diving and gives enthusiasts a rare chance to explore the Pacific Ocean’s depths. Diving is a pleasant experience because of the sea water’s nice temperature of 24°–29°C and typical visibility of 7–12 meters (25–35 feet).
• Whale Watching: Between 2000 and 2500 souther humpback whales visit Pearl Island during the months of June through October making it a must-see attraction. The whales use the warm tropical weather to breed and give birth so it is very likely that you will come across a whale calf!

Where to Stay:

• Saboga Lodge: With its immaculate beaches, verdant rainforests, and undiscovered vistas, Saboga Lodge allows you to detach from the outside world. Saboga Island is where nature becomes the ultimate experience, allowing you to find solace, serenity, and a deeper connection with your surroundings.
• Contadora Island Inn: A delightful bed and breakfast accommodation on Isla Contadora located in a peaceful residential area just a short walk away from nearby beaches.

Where to Eat:

• Casa Tortuga Cucina Creativa: A hidden gem on the island of Contadora, Casa Tortuga Cucina Creativa serves hearty and delicious authentic Italian food. The restaurant is described by many as the best the island has to offers.
• Koral Cafe: Nestled within the enchanting Saboga Lodge Resort, Koral Cafe beckons food enthusiasts with its delightful menu and charming ambiance. This captivating cafe captures the essence of Panama’s rich culinary heritage and adds its own unique twist to create a memorable dining experience.

Ready to explore Panama’s beautiful beaches and waterfront attractions? At Waterviews Travel, we specialize in self-guided tours that let you experience these stunning destinations at your own pace. Whether you’re eager to explore hidden bays perfect for kayaking or looking for dynamic surf spots with waves of all sizes, we can help you craft the perfect itinerary. Contact us today at service@waterviewstravel.com or call 1-800-735-9790 to personalize your trip and embark on a journey that’s as unique as you are. 

Photo Credits: Pixabay Photos. E&Os excluded.