Panama is a beach and island lover’s paradise, with its two long coastlines and more than a thousand islands. Where else on earth can you surf in the Pacific Ocean in the morning and take an evening dip in the Caribbean Sea, all in the same day?
We’ve scoured the best beaches Panama has to offer. Here are our top 12, in no particular order. Since each beach has its own charm and unique characteristics, it would be almost impossible not to be able to find the tropical beach atmosphere you seek somewhere along the coast of Panama.
Ceclia Beth
1. Santa Clara & Farallón, Pacific Coast: These two are the most appealing beaches along the Pacific Coast, and the best for swimming. Best of all, they lie within a 2-hour drive of Panama City. Here the water is bluer and the sand is whiter than what you’ll find in many neighboring beaches closer to the city.
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2. Isla Bastimentos National Park, Bocas del Toro: Cayos Zapatillas, or the “Slippers Islands” (so-called because they resemble footprints), not only fulfill the beach lover’s fantasy with their soft sand backed by a tangle of jungle. They are also surrounded by a rich display of coral that attracts hordes of fish, which makes for some excellent snorkeling.
VivaTropical
3. Boca Chica, Chiriquí: We are a bit partial to Boca Chica, which offers pristine ocean views of tropical blue seas, lush vegetation, and remote islands with white sand beaches and swaying palms. Not to mention, this area also offers world-class fishing, diving, and snorkeling.
Michael McKenzie
4. Santa Catalina, Veraguas: Originally a highly coveted secret surf spot, Santa Catalina probably has the most consistently great waves in Panama. It is the closest access point to Isla Coiba with its world class diving, pristine beaches, and nature reserve.
César Duarte
5. Contadora Isand, Panama: The beaches here are sandy brown, with warm waters suited for snorkeling and swimming. Contadora Island is one of Panama’s more affordable beach destinations.
Haakon S.Krohn
6. San Blas Islands, Guna Yala: This is by far Panama’s premier beach destination with with powdery white sand, extensive coral reefs, piercing turquoise water, and clusters of enticing palm trees. The indigenous and colorful Kuna population administers this province, and their unique culture is one of the best reasons to visit the region.
Gaspar Serrano
7. Las Perlas Archipelago, Panama: The Pearl Islands are a relatively unsung beach destination, despite the fact that this Pacific archipelago is close to Panama City, has some of the country’s best snorkeling, and boasts white sand beaches and calm waters. Outside of holidays and the hard-core summer, you won’t find crowds here, even during weekends. It’s well worth a short boat ride to enjoy solitude at one of Panama’s best beaches.
Chuck Holton
8. Isla Coiba National Park, Veraguas: This island is Panama’s number one diving site. It’s rather remote, but its incredible beaches and the Isla Coiba National Park make it worth the excursion. If the main island is too crowded, try venturing to Granito de Oro where the beaches are so idyllic that midsize cruise ships make stops here.
Andy B.
9. Las Lajas, Chiriquí: One of the lesser known beaches in Panama, Las Lajas is worth a visit, with its swaying palm trees and perfect water temperature. This beach is known for having just the right amount of waves for bodysurfing. Given that the beach stretches for more than 8 miles, it is also the perfect walking beach as well.
Manuele Zunelli
10. La Barqueta, Chiriquí: Strong currents at this black sand beach mean the water is not ideal for swimming. However, like Las Lajas, it is lengthy and good for walking. It’s also home to an impressive nature reserve.
Roman Königshofer
11. Playa Los Destiladores & Playa Venao, Azuero Peninsula: There are a multitude of beaches lining the coast of this peninsula, but these two are the best. Located within a 20-minute drive from one another, you can surf both in one day. Not into surfing? Try the protected cove at Playa Venao, where it is calm enough for a swim, or travel a bit farther east for the best beach surfing hotspot.
Emerging Terrains
12. Burica, Chiriquí: Looking for an underpopulated stretch of some of Panama’s best beaches? Burica, apart from a few small towns and one accommodation, is absolutely desolate. So what is its attraction? Lots and lots of isolated beaches, rows of palm trees, and at times surfable waves. The beach is formed with gray sand and striated rocks that stretch all the way out into the sea.
Which of these Panama beaches is your favorite? Are there any others you think we should have included? Comment and let us know!
Magda Wojtyra
Bocas del Toro, Panama, is like something from another planet, another era even. It’s been compared to Key West, Florida, with its quaint tropical-meets-Victorian architecture. It’s been dubbed the “Galapagos of the Caribbean” due to its rich ecological diversity.
But one thing is for sure. Bocas del Toro is uniquely alluring with a call that summons tourists and expats alike to return again and again to its myriad attractions. It’s a great place to visit and, according to local real estate experts, an even better place to invest or buy property.
Drriss & Marrionn
Conveniently located and perfectly climate-controlled
It’s rare to find a place that is the embodiment of the tropical paradise that time forgot, yet is so easily accessible. Bocas del Toro offers the best of both worlds.
Situated a short distance from Panama’s Caribbean Coast, just south of the Costa Rican border, it even has its own modern airport with several daily flights from Panama City and David. It can also be reached by ferry, water taxi, or private boat via three full-service marinas.
Because of its location it also offers gorgeous weather that’s among the best in the region. Rather than a long, extended wet and dry season, Bocas del Toro enjoys a bit more fluctuation throughout the year. Granted, it can rain at any time, but the islands are generally dry during February through May and September through October. July and December are generally the wettest months and September offers the calmest conditions at sea.
Daily temps range between the high 70s to low 90s. The islands can also be quite humid, but the cooling breeze off the ocean does much to mitigate the mugginess.
T Auchgurke
From buccaneers to bananas
The history of Bocas del Toro only adds to its modern-day charm. When Christopher Columbus first discovered the islands in 1502, he was so enamored with their beauty that he named several of them after himself: Isla Colon (Columbus Island), Isla Cristobal (Christopher Island), and Bahia de Almirante (Admiral’s Bay).
During the 17th century, the islands were popular among pirates who came to repair their ships and, reportedly, bury their treasures. Although, to date, none have been found. The indigenous people were nearly wiped out by disease and Spanish militia before the area was finally settled by wealthy aristocrats in the early 19th century.
Following the abolition of slavery, the servants of these early settlers were joined by Jamaicans and other islanders who began to make a living by fishing and raising bananas. This is still a thriving industry today, as the plantations of Bocas del Toro contribute to the multinational Chiquita Brands International, with Bocas alone exporting 750,000,000 tons of bananas annually.
Bocas del Toro, Panama offers nature galore
The entire archipelago lies in a tropical rainforest ecosystem. As a result, the islands are lush with tropical flora and fauna. It looks like a postcard everywhere you turn. In the jungles you’ll find rare species of birds, butterflies, sloths, monkeys, and even the tiny poison dart frogs that are indigenous to the islands.
The island’s nine main islands, plus 52 cays and hundreds of additional islets, are perfect for exploring by kayak. Surrounding the islands are hundreds of mangrove keys and virgin coral reefs teeming with exotic aquatic species.
The islands themselves offer white sand beaches that are pristine against the turquoise waters. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities in Bocas del Toro, as are surfing, boating, and island hopping. On land, there are also plenty of opportunities for camping, hiking, and exploring the jungles.
Perhaps the largest attraction in Bocas del Toro, Panama is Bastimentos National Marine Park, the first in the country and one of the most important in the world. Covering over 30,000 acres, it’s a protected area for the endangered manatee, as well as a spawning ground for tarpon. The area is also a great place for watching dolphins and sea turtles.
Why photos of Bocas del Toro are so easily recognizable
Once you’ve been to Bocas del Toro, you can immediately choose its picture out of any lineup. The area is famous for its structures that are built on stilts in the water. As a result, it makes for a striking skyline.
Spending time in Bocas means shopping, dining, and even sleeping out over the calm waters of the Caribbean. Many beachfront homes in Bocas del Toro are situated out over the sea. These houses and commercial areas are charmingly set amongst the lush tropical landscape, which stands out against the 10,000 foot peaks that are visible on the mainland.
Aerial photos of the area show heavily treed islands dotting a crystal blue sea, with dozens of thatched roof structures sprinkling their shores, a scene you might recognize from the opening credits of any number of the “Survivor” series as so far 18 countries have traveled to Bocas to film theirs.
S. McCallum
It offers the right balance of rustic versus recent
The islands and their central city of Bocas Town are charmingly quaint, with their Caribbean colonial structures, a style that is required of all new construction. The streets are paved. The water is drinkable. And the hotels offer modern conveniences such as cable television and wireless internet.
Yet everything is distinctly laid-back and pleasantly behind the times. Accommodations lean towards rustic and authentic, rather than posh. Ecolodges abound, and sustainable tourism is a major focus. There’s no electrical grid, as the entire area is powered by a generator plant. As a result, the area is protected from overdevelopment and prices have remained low.
Another major nod to Bocas Del Toro’s authenticity is the way it has integrated the local Ngobe-Bugle people into the overall island experience. The indigenous people share their traditional customs with visitors. They thrive by fishing, farming, and selling their handmade crafts to tourists.
Pereira Miguel
Not too slow, not too fast…the pace of life in Bocas del Toro is just right
Many residents of Bocas del Toro choose it for their home due to the very same appeal that wows tourists the moment they step off the boat or plane. It’s the indescribable warmth and ease of the area and its people.
Much like being on a perpetual vacation, it’s completely free of the hassles the rest of the world encounters on a day-to-day basis. There’s no traffic, no smog, no hurried atmosphere.
In Bocas del Toro, Panama, everything moves at a calm pace so as not to distract your attention from the overwhelming abundance of unspoiled nature that surrounds you. And that won’t change any time soon.
The Bocas del Toro, Panama real estate market is enjoying the same steady pace
The islands of Bocas del Toro are known around the world for their distinct tropical appeal. Panama’s top tourist destination, they attract visitors from all over the world. Many of them are so wowed by the islands’ natural beauty and atmosphere that they end up making it their permanent home. Yet, property in Bocas del Toro remains surprisingly affordable.
In fact, it’s one of the few areas like it that are still left in the region. It offers a variety of living options, from oceanfront homes to jungle retreats, that can still be had for a fraction of the cost of similar properties elsewhere.
As a result, the area has been drawing quite a bit of attention in recent years. However, per J.B. Seligman of Buena Vista Real Estate, Bocas attracts a slightly different crowd than many other expat destinations in the tropics.
Seligman says today’s newcomers are around 35 or slightly older, ranging from those with young kids to those whose kids are almost ready to leave the nest. Rather than waiting until retirement age, they want to invest in property that they can use to earn an income so that they can start enjoying the tropical lifestyle now.
“It’s the younger crowd wanting income-producing property. So we are selling lots of this type of inventory, be it a small hotel, hostel, bar, or restaurant. But this type of inventory is limited, so now there’s a new resurgence in building.”
Magda Wojtyra
Where Bocas del Toro, Panama real estate is headed
According to Seligman, the global economic crisis was felt deeply in Bocas del Toro, but it’s definitely now on the upswing. More reasonably priced properties are what’s moving, and he indicates he sees that trend continuing.
“I see Bocas continuing this upward swing but at a controlled pace, a good pace, for the next 2-3 years,” says Seligman.
Sandy29
Come to visit…stay to live, work, and play
In short, Bocas del Toro, Panama, is a destination like no other. It’s rich with authentic culture, charm, and natural beauty. It’s no wonder tourism to the area is on the rise.
It’s also not a surprise that so many tourists are making the decision to live, invest, or even start a business in Bocas del Toro. With so much to do and see in the area, there’s no indication the influx will slow in the near future.
Bocas del Toro is the perfect setting for the right investor to open an ecolodge, tourism operation, or another business catering to travelers. The nation of Panama is pro-business, pro-investor, and incredibly pro-tourism. And the opportunity to own a perfect piece of island paradise has never been more attractive for the entrepreneurial expat.
Map of Bocas del Toro, Panama
Bocas de Toro Fast Facts
- Population: About 9,000
- Typical temperature: Average temperature is 80 degrees
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: U.S. bound flights leave daily from Tocumen Airport, domestic flights depart for Bocas del Toro from David and Changuinola.
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Panama City
Viva Tropical Radio
Everything you need to know about Panama residency, visas, and beyond. Ricardo Faraudo, an attorney from the DENFAB firm, joins the show.
Ricardo specializes in expat immigration and gives details on all the visa options you have when moving to Panama.
There is even one visa which comes with a Panamanian passport, so find out what option is best for you or if you even need to apply for residency.
In this episode, you will learn:
- Do you even need to get residency?
- How to get a Panamanian passport in under 6 months.
- How much does it cost to get residency?
- Which residency option gives you huge discounts on almost everything you buy?
And much more.
Listen to the show
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The Show Notes
- Ricardo’s firm DENFAB
- Contact Ricardo directly: [email protected]
- Or contact the firm: [email protected]
Everyone who has ever dreamed about owning property has, at one point in time, dreamed of owning their own island. Who wouldn’t want to be a Richard Branson, David Copperfield, or Larry Ellison, king or queen of their own domain?
We are here to dispel the myth that you must be a billionaire or world-famous magician to own your own island, or a piece of one. You, too, can own a piece of paradise. Let’s take a look at some amazing island options, right here in Central America.
Joy Drive
Bocas del Toro, Panama
You can own a piece of Isla Popa in the Bocas del Toro island chain off the Atlantic shore of Panama. Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1502, this chain of islands features plenty of ecotourism opportunities, including Parque Internacional Amistad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you enjoy diving, surfing, or a beachside piña colada, Bocas del Toro has you covered.
What you can buy
A piece in Isla Popa will set you back $220,000, but that includes 9.1 hectares of land, a 30 ft. deep natural harbor, a two-story, two-bedroom wooden home, and a natural spring with swimming hole.
Gaspar Serrano
Pearl Islands, Panama
Shifting to the Pacific coast of Panama, we find the Pearl Islands. Only thirty miles off the coast of Ciudad de Panama, the most famous and most populated of these islands is Isla Contadora, which features white sand beaches, several bars and restaurants, and a great diving scene.
Want to Move to Paradise?
Think about Isla Del Rey in the Pearl Islands, which offers 130 acres of beachfront land, and can be yours for $4,500,000.
Belizian Way
Stann Creek, Belize
Located in the southeast of Belize, the Stann Creek District features many beautiful parks and reserves, including the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Victoria Peak, the second highest mountain in Belize.
Go for the Whole Island
Little Coco Caye in Belize is for sale. This is a five acre island with great diving and fishing. The offer range for your own island is between $365,000 and $395,000.
Bluefield Nicaragua
Bluefields, Nicaragua
The actual town of Bluefields is very developed, with about 50,000 English-speaking citizens within its borders. It is located about 50 minutes by air from Managua, the capital of Nicaragua.
Rustic Island Living
Go rustic in Bluefields where you can purchase a two-bedroom home with generator, septic system, and water, as well as an infinity pool, small caretaker home, cement pier and white-sand beach. This island located an hour by boat from the town of Bluefields, Nicaragua offers up a fully-developed 2.5 acres for $560,000.
Gonzlaught
Pink Pearl Island, Nicaragua
Again located off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua, Pink Pearl Island features reefs, palm trees, and quite an impressive amount of infrastructure. It’s a great island retreat for a week, month, or as long as you like.
A Vacation Villa Like No Other
Three cabanas on the island can be used for tourism, a ‘shack’ with four bunk beds and a shower room, and a main house with one bedroom, living area, full kitchen, and wraparound balcony. There is also a bar and restaurant on the island. All of this can be yours for $500,000!
knotinvein
Diamond Caye, Honduras
Shifting to the country of Honduras, Diamond Caye is located off the western end of Utila Island, and is non-developed. Like a clean island slate where your imagination can run wild. With 1.43 acres in the Bay Islands, the reef around Diamond Caye is some of the best diving in the Caribbean,
No Rules Apply
This island is only 20 minutes from East Harbour on Utila where you can stock up on necessities and take a moment to embrace society before heading back out to paradise. This tropical dream could be yours for $650,000.
Gregorio
Isla Golfito, Costa Rica
Departing from the white-sanded coasts of the other islands we’ve covered in this article, the Island Golfito is a jungled barrier island, located right in front of the town of Golfito.
Close, Yet Far Enough Away from Civilization
Over two miles long and one mile wild, the island listing offers 34.5 acres of decidedly off-grid living, with the island hosting ‘more monkeys than humans.’ Close enough to the mainland to require only a kayak or rowboat to shore, Island Golfito would be a perfect option for those wanting to get away from it all. And, at a $130,000, the patch of land is quite a steal!
So, What Next?
I’m sure many of you are much more interested in owning a swatch of your own island now that you’ve seen some of the options available all across Central America. Where do you begin?
Start by looking at some islands for sale! And if you just aren’t ready to think about buying an island, here are a whole bunch more properties around Central America.
Mario Arias
Does your idea of owning property in the tropics involve a panoramic view of your own private beach, the presence of abundant exotic plants and animals, and the absence of annoyances like noisy neighbors, motorized vehicles, and tourist traps?
If so, then perhaps you should expand your real estate search parameters to include island properties or even entire islands for sale in Latin America. And, for some really great island options, might we also suggest narrowing your search to Panama.
Off its Pacific and Caribbean coasts lie a number of spectacular, often uninhabited, islands whose ecosystems include rainforests, coral reefs, mangroves, cloud forests, and sandy beaches. And these are home to tropical flowers, shady palms, ancient trees, and animals you’ve never seen in any textbook.
Once relatively unknown, Panama’s islands have been gaining popularity as the country’s government has taken a number of drastic measures to encourage both tourism and investment in the country and its many archipelagos.
Today there are a number of private islands for sale, including some that are going for rock-bottom prices, making them primed for impressive appreciation as improvements to the country’s already good infrastructure continue to cause property values to climb.
While there are a few restrictions, it’s entirely possible for foreigners to own islands or waterfront island lots in Panama. In fact, the entire buying process in Panama is relatively simple compared to many of its Central American neighbors.
We’ve written more extensively about the steps in our Panama real estate guide. Here’s a quick recap, along with a few stipulations that apply specifically to island property.
Rights of Possession vs. Titled Property
In Panama, there are two types of property available for purchase. The first is titled property which, once purchased, belongs to you and is titled in your name in the public registry. You pay taxes on it and can do with it as you wish.
With Rights of Possession (ROP) property, the title is owned by the Panamanian government. You can still use it however you’d like. You just don’t hold the title and, consequently, you don’t pay property taxes.
Sound kind of cool, yet a little bit scary at the same time? Yeah, you’re right on both counts. ROP property can be a great investment. It’s also one of the best, if not only, ways to get your hands on some really desirable real estate in Panama, as most (but not all) islands and beachfront properties are ROP land.
The way to eliminate any risks associated with this type of real estate purchase is to do your due diligence to research the ownership rights. There may be conflicting claims to the property, involving multiple parties or even several generations of family members. There can also be squatters who might make a claim for the land.
Resolving any of these potential issues on the front end is absolutely essential to purchasing ROP property and being able to walk away from the transaction with peace of mind, knowing no one else can come back and try to take it for themselves.
Don’t Even Start the Process Without Consulting an Attorney
At this point, it may go without saying (but we’re going to say it anyway)…you absolutely need to hire a qualified attorney who has experience with all types of real estate transactions in Panama, including island real estate and ROP property.
And, by experience, we mean someone who has verifiable references or who comes highly recommended by another friend or professional whom you know and trust. Not just the one with the best website or the neatly bundled real estate buying package with the price tag that ends in $???.99.
Even if your real estate transaction seems straightforward enough, we strongly suggest hiring a qualified attorney, realtor, and any other professional(s) you need to handle the entire process and save you a lot of headaches. Having a team of professionals you can trust is the most important piece of the puzzle that comes together into a picture of you lying in that hammock without a care in the world.
The Buying Process
At the end of the day, the process of buying an island in Panama looks a lot like buying real estate pretty much anywhere in North America. You’ll search online or with a realtor and look at places you’re considering. Note: There’s no MLS in Panama, so you do have to get a bit more creative in order to find available properties. Our Panama Real Estate site is a good place to start.
Once you find the right one, you’ll sign a contract and pay a deposit, like earnest money. Once the title or ownership rights have been researched (this is generally the longest part of the process and may also include a survey), you’ll complete a bill of sale and have it notarized. Then a new title or certificate will be created and approved.
When all is in order, and not a minute before, then you’ll actually transfer the money to the seller from the bank or escrow company who’s been holding it in trust. You’ll also pay any other applicable commissions or service charges, like closing costs. If your property is titled, it can then be recorded in the public registry.
A Note About Waterfront Property
There is a specific restriction regarding beachfront property, which also affects island owners. The first 20 meters from the high tide mark on all Panama beaches is public access. So if you plan to build anything within this area, you’ll need to obtain a concession. This applies to anything from a pier to entire home on stilts over the water.
This process can take a while, and unfortunately you’ll need the concession in order to get a building permit. The good news is that this only applies to the public access area. All that means is that you’ll need to build your house first, while your request is awaiting approval, and then the dock or waterfront gazebo can come later.
Panama’s Most Attractive Archipelagos
So, now that you know how, all that’s really left is WHERE you should search for your island home in Panama. Here are a few of the most beautiful and popular choices.
VivaTropical
Boca Chica
When we mentioned those areas where island real estate can be had for a bargain with some incredible investment potential to boot, this is the main place we had in mind. Boca Chica, on Panama’s Pacific coast, is a true hidden gem that is just beginning to come into its own as a destination for island lovers, fishing enthusiasts, and investors.
With over 50 islands, boasting all kinds of ecosystems, this archipelago is absolutely breathtaking. There’s currently little in the way of tourist infrastructure, which offers a practically blank slate for entrepreneuring expats.
And tourists are definitely anticipated, as the nearby (less than an hour away) Enrique Malek International Airport in David will soon be receiving flights from the U.S. and other destinations for the first time ever. These along with several other infrastructure improvements will mean big things for the Boca Chica area.
The islands themselves, including Boca Chica Island, a 400-acre private development and the home of our latest Adventure Colony, are wild and untouched. Although only a few minutes from the mainland by boat, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles and several centuries away from civilization.
Gaspar Serrano
Pearl Islands
Located near the capital of Panama City, the Pearl Islands can be reached in 15 minutes by plane or 2 hours by ferry. Once there, you’ll feel immediately a part of the rich history of pirates and treasures that gave the archipelago its name.
On the islands you’ll find secluded beaches, bird sanctuaries, coral reefs, and only a few small settlements, although tourism has been increasing as of late. The islands’ beautiful beaches have formed the backdrop for the filming of several seasons of the hit series “Survivor.”
The calm waters surrounding the islands are ideal for fishing, snorkeling, and sailing. The enhanced focus on tourism makes these islands another great investment opportunity.
The most visited of the Pearl Islands, Contadora (so named because it was the location where the pirates counted their pearls), is a resort island where many wealthy Panamanians and foreigners own second homes. There are also a number of luxury tourist accommodations.
Panapro
Bocas del Toro
On Panama’s Caribbean coast, is the archipelago of Bocas del Toro, Panama’s most visited tourist destination. The epitome of the laid-back Caribbean lifestyle, its postcard-worthy skyline includes a number of dwellings and other tourist attractions built out on stilts atop the water.
This archipelago is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as surfing. It has also hosted episodes of the “Survivor” series and as a result has been gaining even more popularity among tourists worldwide.
The six large and numerous small islands offer spectacular beaches that stand out against the thick rainforests, making it an ideal place for ecotourism. However, it also has its share of development, particularly on Isla Colon, which has a fair share of tourist accommodations and a small airport that offers daily flights to Panama City and David.
Although it’s the most developed of Panama’s archipelagos, there are still remote lots that can be found for a reasonable deal if you’re willing to venture away from the tourist areas.
Seibert
Veraguas Islands
If you’re looking to get out…way out…then Veraguas Island and its surrounding area might be a good place to check out. This remote group of islands is covered in lush jungles and offers proximity to Coiba National Park, which includes the largest uninhabited, forested island in the Americas.
The islands also boast a varied assortment of marine life, some white sand beaches, and a number of possibilities for their use. They would make a great setting for a remote residence, an ecotourism outfit, or a private resort in an untouched natural setting.
These ideas should give you a great start, but there are plenty of other islands to choose from in Panama and beyond. Check back frequently to our listings of islands for sale throughout Latin America.
Not every tropical island looks like something you’d see on a postcard. But if you’re looking for a destination that’s both picturesque and serene, then these five Panama islands are your hands-down best options.
San Blas Islands
Ben Kucinski
Although they’ve suffered a bit of an identity crisis (with the name being changed to Kuna Yala and then finally Guna Yala in 2011, although San Blas is still the moniker by which they’re best known), this archipelago is one of Panama’s most visually and culturally stunning destinations.
Made up of a total of 378 islands, of which only 49 are inhabited, the islands are almost entirely occupied by the Guna (or Kuna) Indians. The hundreds of white sand islands, spread out across the turquoise water, are dotted with palm trees and the thatched huts of the local inhabitants.
The Guna people are welcoming to visitors, yet not to big business, which allows for an authentic cultural experience with no tourist traps or ugly hotels to spoil the vibe. The islands have been featured numerous times in National Geographic for their perfect marriage of tropical beauty and bona fide culture.
Rated the #3 tropical paradise in the world by Lonely Planet in 2011, the San Blas Islands offer opportunities for snorkeling, diving, sailing, and kayak tours of the islands. On land, you can also explore the dense rainforests or visit one of the Guna Indian villages.
Bocas del Toro
Marc Wisniak
The number one tourist destination in Panama, the islands of Bocas del Toro perfectly fit the bill of what most people are looking for in a Caribbean getaway. They offer white sand beaches, towering palms, aquatic adventures, and the most adorable little clusters of cabins built on stilts right out in the water.
Bocas Town, on Isla Colon, is a city of about 13,000 and boasts plenty of restaurants, hotels, bars, and other tourist attractions. However, if you’re looking for a bit more solitude, there are plenty of places where you can find a practically deserted stretch of beach or hike through thick rainforests with nothing but a few rare birds to keep you company.
The islands also claim some of Panama’s best surfing, with a wide variety of surf breaks for all skill levels. Catamaran tours are a great way to see the islands, as well as the mangroves, dolphins, manatees, and the red dart frogs that live exclusively on one of the islands.
Make sure you don’t miss the gorgeous Zapatilla Keys Beach where a whopping 18 different countries have come to film their “Survivor” series. There are also a number of great spots for snorkeling and diving, as well as river tours that lead to an authentic Ngobe Bugle Indian village.
Pearl Islands
Gaspar Serrano
Located in the Gulf of Panama about 30 miles from Panama City, the Pearl Islands archipelago includes about 100 islands, many of which are uninhabited. Also home to three seasons of CBS’s “Survivor,” the islands offer some of the country’s most beautiful scenery.
The most popular of the islands is Contadora Island. Its small airport makes it easily accessible. And its luxury hotels, restaurants, and 9-hole golf course are conveniently tucked in among the island’s 13 beautiful beaches.
The island’s name means “counter” in Spanish, aptly named since the island served as a spot where Spanish conquistadors would go to tally their pearl harvest. Thousands were found during the 16th century, including a 400-year-old, 31 carat pearl now owned by Elizabeth Taylor.
You can still buy pearls on the islands today, but their biggest attractions are their sparsely-populated, postcard-worthy beaches.
Isla Grande
2 BP
Just a few miles off the coast of Portobelo, a picturesque town with rich Spanish history, lies Isla Grande. Home to the popular Bananas resort, it’s a top destination among Panama City residents who want to get away from the hubbub of the city and relax on the island’s palm-lined beaches.
The quaint little island is home to only a few hundred people who mostly earn their living off fishing and coconuts, trends that are evident in the island’s cuisine. It boasts a relaxed vibe and a considerable amount of rainfall due to its location on the country’s northern Caribbean coast.
Isla Grande also offers some excellent snorkeling and scuba diving. The waters between it and Portobelo claim a number of shipwrecks and coral reefs.
Boca Chica
VivaTropical
Located in the Gulf of Chiriqui, Boca Chica boasts over 50 islands scattered throughout the gulf off the coast of the town of Boca Chica. The islands are easily accessible thanks to a newly widened highway to the city of David, where the large international airport will soon be receiving flights from the U.S. and other destinations.
Newly emerging as an up-and-coming tourist destination, the area has a few lodging options, including a fishing lodge and an eco-boutique hotel. But what it currently lacks in tourist infrastructure, it easily makes up for in impressive scenery and uninhabited islands waiting to be explored.
There are ghostly mangroves, otherworldly ancient rainforests, white sand beaches, and a myriad of flora and fauna. On Boca Chica Island itself is Monte Vida Park, a 50-acre crowd-funded park that’s the first of its kind.
Also nearby are Coiba Island and Hannibal Bank, which are home to some of the best fishing in the entire world, as evidenced by the astounding number of world record catches that occurred in their waters. Popular species include yellowfin tuna, blue and black marlin, sailfish, and dorado.
See our Panama articles for more information on these and other popular destinations. You can also check out our listings of islands for sale if you’re interested in making your tropical paradise experience a little more long term.
Anoldent
The beautiful island of Ambergris Caye, Belize, was recently named the best island in the world by the readers of TripAvisor. The island takes top billing for the second year in a row, knocking out favorites like Bora Bora and Chile’s Easter Island.
When choosing it as their top pick, voters cited its beautiful natural environment, its perfect balance of quaint-meets-contemporary, and the myriad of activities the island offers. Here are a few of the things that make Ambergris Caye such a great choice for tourists and expats.
It has a relaxing laid-back feel.
Despite being popular enough to rank tops with TripAdvisor travelers, Ambergris Caye has retained its quaint island atmosphere. There are no high-rise buildings, no traffic lights, and nothing but palm trees lining the long stretches of beautiful beach.
Most everything is within walking distance, and most inhabitants do their walking in bare feet. Beyond that, golf carts are about the most sophisticated vehicles you’ll see on the sandy roads.
The people are an eclectic mix of locals as well as expats from all over the globe. Many residents come over from mainland Belize, but there are also immigrants from other Latin American countries, the U.S., and elsewhere. They’re all helpful, super friendly, and eager to share their love for the island with other newcomers.
Yet it’s far from sleepy.
Even though Ambergris Caye can be peaceful and quiet, there’s no shortage of things to do, thanks to its well-developed tourist culture. There are a variety of restaurants, due largely to its diverse blend of cultures.
You can visit a hot dog or burrito stand for lunch, snack on ceviche or stuffed jalapenos from a street vendor, and enjoy dinner at an elegant restaurant serving authentic Belizean cuisine. The island also has a happening evening scene, with plenty of bars, beach parties, and more.
It offers some of the world’s best scuba diving.
Ambergris Caye is less than a mile from the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest in the Western Hemisphere and the second largest in the world. It’s also a short distance from the Great Blue Hole, one of the world’s top diving sites.
The waters around the island are also great for snorkeling. The fishing is great, and you can also sail to the nearby cayes, like Caye Caulker which is another popular Belize vacation spot.
Not to mention, the amazing scenery.
Ambergris Caye is much more than the sand and sea of your average beach town. It does have some great sand beaches that have been cleared for the enjoyment of sunbathing tourists. But what’s even more interesting are the other ecosystems on and around the island.
From the mangrove swamp that occupies the center of the island to the jungles on the surrounding cayes to the reef itself, there’s so much to observe in Ambergris Caye. If you’re only looking for the white sand beaches with shady palms, you can definitely find them. But don’t miss the other opportunities the island offers.
If you like Ambergris Caye, you’ll love these options…
James Willamore
Roatan, Honduras
Located just off the country’s northern coast, Roatan is also only a short hop from the reef. As a result, it offers the same opportunities to explore seawalls and shipwrecks while swimming with dolphins and sea turtles in the warm waters of the Caribbean.
Except when there are cruise ships docked offshore, Roatan is pleasantly uncrowded compared to some of its Central American competitors. Yet it also enjoys all of the same amenities tourists and locals seek, like great bars and restaurants.
It has equally friendly locals, many of whom speak English, and plenty of expats. Prices there are also still relatively affordable.
Roman Königshofer
Bocas del Toro, Panama
Also located in the Caribbean is the archipelago of Bocas del Toro, Panama. The country’s vacation destination, it’s popular among travelers from all over the world.
With its network of buildings built on stilts out in the water, it’s everything you picture when dreaming about a Caribbean vacation. It also enjoys the same easygoing vibe as the other destinations.
Visitors to Bocas del Toro can participate in diving, snorkeling, world-class surfing, jungle hiking, or just relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
Jackiemora01
Nosara, Costa Rica
A longtime popular choice among expats, Nosara is a great mainland beach option. It’s known for its fantastic surfing and healthy, active culture. It’s also gaining popularity among young expat families.
It’s a safe community that lacks the drug problem that plagues many other destinations. Its longstanding status as an expat haven has resulted in the addition of many amenities families seek, such as quality schools.
It also has some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, which are protected from the scars of any large-scale developments. They offer nothing but shady palms, rocky cliffs, and long expanses of sand.
VivaTropical
Boca Chica Island, Panama
Located in an archipelago in the Gulf of Chiriqui, off Panama’s Pacific Coast, Boca Chica Island is one of the country’s final frontiers. Its sandy beaches give way to lush virgin rainforests, making it the perfect place to relax in a tranquil setting away from the crowds and noise.
From Boca Chica, you can hop to one of the over 50 surrounding islands and explore deserted beaches, eerie mangroves, and ancient jungles. The area also offers some of the world’s best sport fishing.
While it sounds remote (and it certainly feels that way), Boca Chica Island is only a 10 minute boat ride from the town of Boca Chica on the mainland, and then it’s less than an hour to the city of David (Panama’s 3rd largest).
Because of its excellent location, plus the massive renovation of David’s airport that now allows for international flights from the U.S., property on Boca Chica Island is also a fantastic investment. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an active tropical lifestyle without giving up any modern conveniences.
And thanks to our newest Adventure Colony development, you can still buy oceanfront lots in this up-and-coming area at unbelievable prices. For more information on the Adventure Colony experience and its investment potential, here are some helpful insights and cool video of the area.
Map of Ambergris Caye, Belize
Belize Fast Facts
- Population: 324,060
- Typical temperature: mid-80s
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport, Belize City
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Belmopan, Belize
BTimes
You’ve probably heard of beautiful Bocas del Toro, a group of islands off Panama’s Caribbean coast that, in recent decades, has become one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations.
But there’s also another emerging destination just a few hours away on Panama’s Pacific side that we think is, in many ways, superior (or at least on par) with its Caribbean counterpart.
That place is Boca Chica, Panama.
Because of their coastal locales, the two share many common attractions. However, each has specific areas where it excels beyond its competitor.
Both are fantastic places to visit or live, but–to help you decide if one of these destinations could be right for your next vacation or even your permanent home overseas–take a look at how the two stack up in several important categories.
Round #1: Accessibility
Winner: Boca Chica
The best way to reach Bocas del Toro is by plane, which is a 40 minute flight from Panama City or San Jose, Costa Rica. By land, travel is far less simple. Bocas del Toro is on the Caribbean (northern) side of the country, and the Pan American highway generally hugs the Pacific (southern) side. As a result, it takes hours to get from Bocas del Toro to any other decent-sized city, such as Boquete and David.
Boca Chica, however, is on Panama’s Pacific coast a short distance from the town of David, just over half an hour in fact, thanks to a new 4-lane highway. Even in a slow boat, you could get to one of Boca Chica’s closer islands from the airport in David in about 40 minutes or so.
That’s not to say that Boca Chica isn’t remote. Due to the fact that it has less people and tourist attractions, it feels much more secluded than Bocas del Toro once you get there. It’s just the ‘getting there’ part that’s much more advanced.
What’s more, Boca Chica also boasts proximity to a number of other adventures and attractions throughout the Chiriqui province, one of the nation’s biggest up-and-coming areas for tourism. There’s hiking and whitewater rafting at Volcan Baru, the country’s highest peak, coffee plantations and canopy tours in Boquete, and a number of other places to visit nearby.
Round #2: Consumer Goods and Services
Advantage: Boca Chica
Due to the problems with access and proximity to a large city, what’s available to you in Bocas del Toro is mostly limited to whatever is offered or sold locally. There are grocery stores, banks, ATMs, and a number of restaurants and bars. The town also offers basic health care in the form of a few public (and even a handful of private) clinics.
However, most (or, in some cases, all) of these are located in Bocas Town on the main island of Isla Colon. That means that if you’re staying elsewhere you’ll need to take one of the many water taxis, which are available on up into the wee hours of the morning.
If you need something beyond the local options, you have two options. You can drive the 4 hours over the mountain ridge to David where there’s practically every kind of service imaginable: hardware stores, modern hospitals, repair shops, government offices, and a variety of dining and shopping options. Or you can incur the cost (and the wait) associated with having goods shipped.
Boca Chica has roughly the same local options, in the way of small retail establishments. The major difference between the two is that the latter is a mere 40 minutes from David. As a result, it’s reasonable to conceive of driving into town for a world-class steak dinner or towing your boat into the city to a reliable mechanic.
Viva Tropical
Round #3: Investment Potential
Winner: Boca Chica by a Large Margin
Bocas del Toro, while still a great place to invest in property, is already very much on the radar of many travelers and would-be expats. Because it’s a well-known tourist destination with an established expat community, the prices in the area reflect that.
On the other hand, Boca Chica offers all the same gorgeous scenery and opportunities for adventure at prices that still represent a great value. But, most importantly, the Boca Chica area has screamin’ investment potential.
We mentioned that it’s close to David, much closer than Bocas del Toro. Well, factors like location and accessibility play a huge role when it comes to property valuation. As does infrastructure.
And both of those are better in and around Boca Chica, particularly in terms of the easy access to David and its international airport. Even more prophetic is what’s currently going on at said airport: millions of dollars in renovations and expansions that will soon open its runways to international flights from the U.S. (among other countries) for the first time in history.
What will result is more visitors and new residents in Boca Chica, which will in turn lead to the need for new businesses, even better infrastructure, and continually rising home and land prices.
Viva Tropical
Round #4: Atmosphere
Outcome: Boca Chica for Solitude, Bocas del Toro for Socializing
Both Boca Chica and Bocas del Toro have a great vibe. They’re just different in their appeal.
Bocas del Toro is your quintessential Caribbean beach town. It’s fun and funky with many of its buildings and businesses built out over the water on stilts (no high rise condominiums here). It’s charming and quaint, that is until nightfall when things can tend to get a little crazy as Bocas del Toro is known for its partying nightlife. Peace and quiet can be found, but you’ll have to venture outside of town or to one of the smaller islands.
Boca Chica, on the other hand, is quieter and a bit more subtle. Instead of hovering atop the water, its lodges and resorts are tucked away into hillsides or scattered among the many islands of the archipelago. There are good times to be had on Boca Chica evenings as well, but they’re usually in the form of lively happy hours on restaurant patios rather than in thumping discos.
Autoridad de Turismo de Panamá
Round #5: Tourist Infrastructure
Advantage: Bocas del Toro
By comparison, Bocas del Toro is the much more established of the two areas, particularly when it comes to tourist attractions in Bocas del Toro. Populated by locals, as well as an established expat community, it caters to backpackers, families, honeymooners, and more.
Bocas del Toro has plenty of hotels and restaurants, most of which are concentrated in and around Bocas Town. There are also dive shops, deep sea fishing charters, a number of boat cruises and tours, bike and moped rentals, and various land and sea excursions…everything you’d expect to find in a Caribbean beach town.
On the other hand, many of these same operations are just beginning to appear in Boca Chica. You can enjoy most of these same activities there. You just might have a harder time locating a few of them (with the fishing, sailing, and other aquatic adventures being the overwhelming exception, as they’re all abundant in Boca Chica).
As mentioned, Boca Chica is poised for tremendous growth in the coming years. The potential for new tourism offerings is certainly there. It’s also another great investment option for entrepreneurs who want to open a boutique hotel or sport fishing lodge.
Round #6: Surfing
Advantage: Bocas del Toro
Both Boca Chica and Bocas del Toro have beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming or sunning, including long stretches of secluded beaches where you can find yourself totally alone.
However, if hitting the surf is the excitement you crave, you’re better off in Bocas del Toro.
Some of the best spots include Bluff Beach, which has large enough waves even for advanced surfers; Carenero Point, which has the islands’ longest left break and perfect tubes when the conditions are right; and Isla Batimentos, which is home to the popular Wizard Beach and Red Frog surf spots.
There’s good surfing to be found near Boca Chica, but getting there will require a little longer drive or boat ride than in Bocas del Toro.
Round #7: Snorkeling
Advantage: Bocas del Toro
The same goes for snorkeling. There are a few private beaches in Boca Chica where you can enjoy a day of snorkeling. You can also take a 45 minute boat ride to the waters around the nearby Islas Secas, or a longer 2 to 3 hour trip to Coiba National Park, one of the largest marine parks in the world.
The options in Bocas del Toro are much more prevalent. One of the best places is Bahia de Almirante in Admiral Bay, with its protected coral reefs, clear waters, and few waves. In and around Bocas del Toro you can see reefs, kelp forests, shipwrecks, caves, over two dozen types of coral, and hundreds of species of fish.
Another popular spot is Hospital Point. It’s only five minutes away by boat, making it easily accessible and a great way to get in a little exploring without taking up too much of your day. You can rent equipment for as little as $12 per day and hire one of many locals along the wharf to drop you off and pick you up for around $3.
Chuck Holton
Round #8: Diving
Verdict: Boca Chica Wins
Bocas del Toro has a number of good options for scuba diving, often the same spots you would go for snorkeling as some of the reefs go down as deep as 60 feet. However, the waters around Boca Chica offer some of the world’s best dives, according to National Geographic.
Islas Ladrones, which lies 27 miles due south, is teeming with schools of jack, snapper, and barracuda. There are also smaller species like surgeonfish, parrotfish, triggerfish, angelfish, and more that can be seen year round. You can also spot several species of shark and, at certain times of the year, giant manta rays and humpback whales. Visibility near the island is 30-80 meters.
Slightly farther away, along Isla de Coiba, you can also explore a 330,000-acre reef which contains 60 of the world’s 75+ species of hard and soft coral. In these protected waters you’ll also find mullet, stingray, puffers, moray eels, and gentle sea turtles.
CMC corkle 2005
Round #9: Fishing
Winner: Boca Chica Hands-Down
As you could guess based on the abundance of species represented in Boca Chica, the fishing in its waters is second to none. Fishing lodges make up a big majority of the tourist accommodations in the area, and we’ve lost count of the number of world record catches that were landed in and around Boca Chica.
Much of these whoppers were reeled in near Hannibal Bank, a world-famous fishing hotspot where the ocean floor rises sharply from thousands of feet deep to a mere 120 feet. This underwater cliff is home to the merging of schools of inshore fish with the offshore species who feed on them. Marlin in excess of 1,000 pounds and tuna over 300 pounds have been caught in these waters, as well as snapper, amberjack, and snook.
These and other species can also be caught in Bocas del Toro. The best fishing is a bit more seasonal there and, while still world-class, it isn’t even in the same ballpark as Hannibal Bank.
Round #10: Land Exploration
Verdict: Boca Chica Takes the Round
Being composed at least partially of islands, both Bocas del Toro and Boca Chica have plenty of options for exploring. Each island offers its own varied topography and environment. You can find hundreds of different species of monkeys, reptiles, birds, and plants, many still unidentified.
We’re giving this round to Boca Chica based mainly on the fact that its islands and jungles have a much more otherworldly appeal to them. A number of its islands are completely covered in untouched rainforests, with an abundance of old growth trees so ancient-looking that you would almost bet they pre-date the great flood.
One such is Boca Chica Island, the location of our latest Adventure Colony. To help maintain the island’s prehistoric feel we’ve created Monte Vida Park, a 50-acre crowd funded preserve dedicated to protecting the surrounding rainforests and in turn adding value to property on the island.
Because of Boca Chica’s incredible investment potential, as well as its stunning natural environment, it was a natural choice when we were looking for a spot to establish a place where like-minded people could take advantage of all the area has to offer.
In the turquoise Caribbean waters of Panama, Bocas del Toro is a hotspot among travelers all over the world. World-class surfing, diving, snorkeling, jungle hiking, incredible wildlife, and stunning beaches make it the most popular vacation destination in all of Panama.
Rita Willaer
Many expats have chosen to call Bocas del Toro home, opening gourmet grocery stores, international restaurants, and beachfront lodges. A huge appeal of these islands is the fact that many businesses are built on docks overlooking the gorgeous Caribbean sea.
Each island has its own unique vibe and landscape, offering visitors and transplants a great deal of diversity. So which island is best for you? Read on to find out.
Isla Colon
The main island in Bocas del Toro is where most businesses, restaurants, and lodging have been developed. The airport with connecting flights to Panama City is here as well as the boat dock that takes passengers to the mainland in Panama.
Bocas Town
The only “town” in Bocas del Toro is on Isla Colon called Bocas Town. This is the main port where water taxis depart to other islands and the mainland. All of the grocery stores in Bocas del Toro are located in Bocas Town along with the bank and ATMs, post office, and most bars and restaurants. While this is the most bustling area of Bocas it maintains the vibe of a charming small Caribbean town.
In the day dive shops arrange tours on the main strip, travelers wander the streets, expats shop in the markets, and tourists dine at restaurants built on docks. At night Bocas Town can get pretty crazy with a party every night of the week and plenty of happy hours.
For this reason, Bocas del Toro has earned itself the reputation of being a party town. While many of the twenty-something backpackers who come to Bocas are here for the party, Isla Colon has so much more to offer.
Those seeking peace and quiet will do better on some of the smaller islands or outside of town. However for convenience and walkability Bocas Town is the most ideal place in Bocas del Toro to post up. Many locals live in and around Bocas Town.
Bluff Beach
Along the coast a few miles from town is Bluff Beach with huge waves for advanced surfers and miles of golden sand. There are a few homes, lodges, and restaurants up here, but generally it’s quite remote.
This is a great spot for those looking for peace and quiet or excellent surfing. It’s particularly suited to those who have cars, ATVs, or motorbikes as it’s a great place to get away from the main town without taking a water taxi to get around.
Starfish Beach
On the other side of the island is one of the most beautiful beaches in Panama: Starfish Beach in Boca del Drago. The golden sand is wilderness-backed and the perfect calm turquoise water is covered in starfish. The beach can get touristy but if you stay on the outskirts you may have a patch entirely to yourself. There are a few houses and lodges in this area, but it’s more geared towards tourists than expats.
Isla Carenero
Chris Goldberg
A short one dollar taxi ride from Bocas Town is Isla Carenero. With no cars and land overcome by mangrove forest, it’s a different world. Homes, vacation rentals, and hotels sit on the beach in front of the ocean or on a dock over the sea. Most come with their own private dock with hammocks. Many locals also live on this island.
There are several restaurants and bars on the island, the most famous being Bibi’s on the Beach for fresh seafood. No ATMs or grocery stores are on the island, but Bocas Town is a few minutes away and water taxis run until the wee hours.
Some of the best surfing in all of Bocas del Toro can be found on Isla Carenero. Carenero Point has the longest left break in all of the islands and when conditions are good the tubes are perfect. Stand up paddleboarding is also popular on this island; the protection from other islands give it glassy water in addition to big surf breaks. Local spots like Bibi’s and Gran Kahuna Hostel rent boards.
The island is sleepy and relaxed with the exception of popular nightclub and hostel Aqua Lounge which hosts parties on Wednesday and Saturday nights. Those looking to steer clear should be sure to stay at least a couple of blocks down where the ocean drowns out any of the noise.
Isla Solarte
A. Vision
This remote island across from Isla Carenero on the way to Isla Bastimentos is one of the best places to see marine and wildlife in Bocas del Toro. There are plenty of dive sites and mangroves to explore with dolphins, eels, lionfish, and beautiful coral. The island itself is very sparse but there are a few homes and eco lodges.
Isla Bastimentos
Magalie Labbe
Isla Bastimentos is the island for those who truly want a jungle immersion experience. The national park covers most of the island with lots of trails for spotting all kinds of wildlife including the ubiquitous poison dart frog. Boat rides can take tours through the Marine Wildlife Park to the stunning Salt Creek spotting caimans, sloths, monkeys, and more.
The only town, Old Bank, is a small strip of a few restaurants and a couple hundred indigenous Caribbean inhabitants. Lodging and restaurants are sparsely spread around the island including eco lodges, hotels, and budget backpacker hostels. Places close down early, during the rainy season many roads turn to mud, and water taxis to town stop running before dark so it’s important to plan ahead.
The island is also famous for its surfing. Wizard Beach and Red Frog beach are some of the most popular surf spots in all of Bocas.
Which Bocas Del Toro Island Will Be Your Favorite?
Bocas del Toro is filled with many more wonderful places to explore including Swan’s Key, Dolphin’s Key, and Caye Zapatillos. If you decide to spend some time in or even relocate to Bocas del Toro you can enjoy all that the many islands have to offer, regardless of where you base yourself.
Playa Burica property in Panama
There are a lot of great up-and-coming places in Panama that are perfect for those who want to relocate to the tropics but don’t want to pay the hefty price for a place in an established area. These locations are also ideal for any would-be pioneers who are looking for a rising hotspot that isn’t quite so “last week.”
So, whether you’re hoping to blaze a trail in an emerging area or just want to find your own piece of paradise with a slightly lower price tag, we recommend that you keep an eye on these 5 up-and-coming places in Panama.
1. Western Azuero
Unlike the eastern portion of the peninsula, the western coast of Azuero is much less developed. Known as the Azuero Sunset Coast, this area is sparsely populated and home to very few expats. While it has a couple of small towns–most notably, Torio, and Malena, a small fishing village–the region is mostly home to cattle ranches and those involved in other agricultural pursuits.
Situated on Panama’s Pacific Coast, the scenery on the Azuero is remarkable. Lush mountainsides, with cascading waterfalls, give way to deserted stretches of beach where you could easily find yourself to be the only sunbather or surfer for miles around. Speaking of surfing, this region, particularly Morillo Beach just south of Torio, offers some of Panama’s best and most consistent waves.
The Azuero’s western coast offers sightings of whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. It’s also home to world-class fishing, with an abundance of tuna, sailfish, marlin, dorado, wahoo, and yellow tail. And the rainforests of Cerro Hoya National Park are home to many endangered species.
Azuero coastal area does have some supermarkets and even a handful of new residential areas along the coast, but getting from point B to point B is indirect at best, however, if that doesn’t bother you, this area boasts one of the lowest costs of living in Panama.
With decent access to the larger city of Santiago, and even better access to more populated areas along the peninsula’s east coast (like Pedasi and Las Tablas), the western Azuero coast is a great fit if you want to live like a local without venturing terribly far away from modern conveniences.
2. Caribbean Coast
In contrast to Panama’s often rocky and varied Pacific coast, its northern coast borders the Caribbean, which offers pristine white sand and shady palms. Not to mention sparkling turquoise waters that offer crystal clear visibility.
Its beauty might suggest that Panama’s Caribbean coast would be its most desirable and home to many of its largest settlements. Not so.
One reason is its inaccessibility. The Pan-American highway, which stretches from Alaska down to the southernmost regions of South America (except for a brief gap through Panama’s Darien province), almost invariably clings tightly to Panama’s southern Pacific coast, making the Caribbean side of the nation much more difficult to reach by land.
Also, while there are areas such as Bocas del Toro that attract both tourists and expats in droves, they’re not the best bargains on the Caribbean coast. If you’re looking for a bigger discount, Panama’s northern coast also boasts miles and miles of virgin beaches that are great for the more adventurous destination-seeker.
Along with the discounted price tag, though, comes much less in the way of infrastructure. Think primitive roads, spotty internet, and fewer public water systems.
Additional challenges presented by Panama’s Caribbean coast include the large amount of protected land. With many national parks and indigenous lands, property is quite difficult to come by. Not to mention, the area gets a large amount of rainfall, roughly twice that of the Pacific Coast.
While the Caribbean coast offers opportunities to own stunning beachfront property at rock bottom prices, it’s not for everyone. We’d only recommend this region if you aren’t afraid to hurdle some obstacles in the buying process and are willing to contend with a lack of conveniences. At least, for now.
3. Burica Peninsula
In Panama’s southwest corner lies the Burica Peninsula, which juts into the Pacific Ocean and divides its territory between Costa Rica and Panama, which claims about ⅔ of the landmass. Accessible by a short scenic drive from David, the peninsula is home to Puerto Armuelles, which has shopping facilities and other modern conveniences.
However, Burica’s tropical wilderness, not its familiar amenities, are its real appeal. Covered mostly in rainforests, it contains beautiful flora and fauna and is home to many endangered species such as the Panamanian Red Spider Monkey.
The area also contains fields, where cattle graze, and rolling hills that often drop off directly into the Pacific Ocean. Its beaches are untouched and dotted with towering palms. In addition to lounging in a hammock on an isolated beach, the area also welcomes you to experience some of the world’s best sport fishing and a few of Panama’s secret surfing locations.
A drive down the recently completed road that leads all the way to the tip of the peninsula affords views of Volcan Baru, the country’s highest peak. You’ll cross a river and drive out on the beach, along the surf, to reach the Playa Burica community at the southernmost point. But only at low tide. Otherwise, you’ll need a boat to get there.
While this area is still up-and-coming, it likely won’t be for long. If you’re looking for an elusive destination that offers a remote feel, just a short distance from civilization, take a look at the Burica Peninsula.
Note: Article 121 is something one needs to research before buying here. Despite this Law most of the coastline is currently owned by foreigners.
4. Santa Fe
So, those are some beach areas. What about something for the mountain-goers?
The relatively small, albeit growing, town of Santa Fe, nestled into the Veraguas mountain range about 5 hours from Panama City, is a place we think you should watch.
Although surrounded by much higher mountains, Santa Fe sits at an altitude of just 1350 feet. That’s high enough to escape the heat and humidity of the lowlands, yet low enough to experience some nice warm days and no breathing problems.
While notes of traditional Panamanian culture still ring throughout, the city enjoys many modern conveniences such as clean drinking water and high speed internet. However, perhaps its biggest draw is its opportunity for adventure.
Santa Fe offers horseback riding, bird watching, and exploring…from mountainside coffee farms to waterfalls to orchid gardens. Among the town’s inhabitants are toucans, hummingbirds, and rare butterflies.
Also relatively rare in Santa Fe are expats. Sure, there are some. But rather than living isolated by themselves in gated communities, expats in Santa Fe often reside on large plots of land that they can use for coffee farming, reforestation, or even simply growing their own organic fruits and vegetables.
Santa Fe is a great value if you’re an outdoor enthusiast who wants community and conveniences, but in a place that’s rich in authentic culture and relatively unspoiled by developers.
5. Ruta Sur
Ruta Sur refers to the new stretch of road that was built to bridge the gap between Boquete and Volcan. Meaning “Southern Route,” it covers what is essentially 15 miles, as the crow flies, in many more winding miles of unmarked (and sometimes unpaved) roads.
Much different from the highly-developed and densely populated towns it connects, areas traversed by the Ruta Sur are rural and contain few inhabitants. The route takes you past miles of coffee and vegetable farms, by orange groves, past Volcan Baru, alongside waterfalls, through canyons and lush valleys, and finally to fields used for cattle farms and greenhouses.
Once fairly unknown, this region offers, not only new and improved access, but many opportunities for enterprise. Residents of this area are able to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and also earn a living operating a dairy farm or a spa retreat high in the mountains.
As the road begins to become more traveled, the region will likely gain popularity. However, it could take a while. The route is largely unlabeled, with only a telltale painted yellow stripe marking the way, much like Dorothy’s fabled quest for the land of Oz.
The areas along the Ruta Sur are perfect if you want to enjoy a life lived a little further off the beaten path and use your land as your livelihood. Shop for property along this stretch of road if you want to embrace life along the journey, not at the destination.
If you’re hoping to retire to a beach haven overseas, may we suggest Panama? The Latin American country has a great deal of culture to offer, as well as beautiful scenery and fabulous weather. And the Panama beaches are an important part of the package.
Panama has many draws as an overseas retirement location, including vibrant communities, great quality inexpensive housing, and the beaches are some of the best. In fact, one of the best things about the country is that it has beaches leading onto two oceans: the Pacific and the Caribbean. In fact, Panama has over 1,500 miles of coastline!
Panama Beaches
In the past, Panama’s beaches have often been overlooked. Many of them are very rural and remote, and they haven’t typically been popular tourist destinations. However, there are some absolutely gorgeous areas of coastline in the country, and we don’t think that you should overlook them.
If you’re thinking about visiting or retiring to Panama, take a look at these top five beach areas in the country.
Coronado
Coronado Panama
Set only an hour away from Panama City, Coronado is a beach town that is well-loved by expats and Panamanians alike. The beaches themselves are an impressive site to behold. The beaches in this area have fantastic black and white sand, and are great fun to visit.
Away from the beach, the town of Coronado also has a range of leisure facilities including bars, restaurants, shops and a plaza area. This is a very popular area, and has a great expat community. This area is very different from the rest of the beach areas on the list: purely because of how developed it is. Coronado is the destination for you if you want to be able to shop in an American-style grocery store and meet up with friends for a nearby round of golf.
Boca Chica
Photo by Boca Chica Island
The Boca Chica area is wonderful if you’re looking for a rural, romantic spot to spend time with a loved one. The landscape here is made up of hills, valleys, and banana plantations. It also has a perfectly tropical climate. In the past, this was a very remote area, but it is fast becoming the next up and coming spot. The new airport in nearby David will soon be accommodating direct flights to the United States and Canada, which will make traveling here very easy.
The beaches in Boca Chica benefit from fine sand, dark beautiful water, and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Factor in the Chiriqui Marine Park, and the coast at Boca Chica is very attractive.
Bocas Del Toro
Bocas Del Toro is an area that’s made up of six islands, along with a number of uninhabited islets. It’s a beautiful part of the country, and is described by Conde Nast as “the Caribbean that time forgot.”
This area is popular with tourists and expats for many reasons. It has a great community, and is also home to some of the most typically beautiful beaches in the whole of Panama.
Here, you can expect to see flawless white sandy beaches and clear, turquoise water. Because of this, the beaches in this area are particularly popular snorkelling destinations.
Santa Catalina
The Lonely Planet has reported that Santa Catalina has the potential to be the next great Central American beach destination.
This laid-back town is mainly populated by laid-back Panamanian fishermen, but it does have a huge draw for tourists and expats alike: great surf! The beaches of Santa Catalina offer incredible surfing opportunities. Because of this, the town is growing, and is developing more and more facilities for expats.
Because of the relaxed atmosphere of the town, it also has a growing reputation for having a healthy attitude. There’s a real focus in the town on healthy food, as well as yoga. Santa Catalina is one of the few places in Panama with this sort of vibe.
Pedasi
Pedasi is a small town set in the outback of Panama. It’s a relaxed, low-key place with a rich history of folklore. If you visit the town, you can expect to be greeted by friendly residents, great food, and maybe even a beach party or two. There’s also something a little out of the ordinary waiting for you at Pedasi. In this area, some of the beaches feature beautiful lava covered sand.
But it’s not all quiet here. There are also a great deal of sports opportunities to choose from. Whether you’re into surfing, scuba diving, sports fishing, or horseback riding, you’ll find something to enjoy in the area.
The one downside of Pedasi is that property prices are quite high here compared to other rural areas with limited services.
Is One of these Panama Beach Areas Right for You?
Panama is a beautiful country that offers a lot more value for money than other more typical holiday or retirement destinations. It’s an inexpensive place to live, and this is true even in some of the more popular coastal areas.
If you’re looking for the ideal beach destination, to visit or even to retire to, one of these five areas might be the one for you.
The Panama 3 Count, where we bring you 3 Panama stories that you shouldn’t miss.
Photo Credit: Conde Nast Traveler
1: Bocas del Toro, Panama: The Laid-Back and Easy Way
Columbus landed there. Graham Greene made it on his third try. Now Conde Nast’s man in Panama, Peter Stevenson, falls under the laid-back spell of the islands of the Bocas del Toro. Welcome to the Caribbean that time forgot.
2: Panama Adds 29,000 Small Businesses (Machine Translation)
An astonishing 29,000 small businesses were opened in Panama in 2012 serving three main areas, mini-casinos, bars, and grill-type restaurants. Criticism has arisen around the Panama Emprende program, which fast-tracks licenses for these businesses, saying the country doesn’t need any more bars or mini-casinos.
3: 3 Economic Powerhouses of Central America (Machine Translation)
Panama, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua are spearheading economic growth in Central America, according to projections from the Central American Bank for Economic Integration.