As one of the fastest growing expat destinations, Panama City offers a variety of options for a tropical home. With an ever-expanding infrastructure, favorable residency laws and great discounts for retirees, the resurgence of Panama will continue to make living there an attractive choice.
Aside from the city itself, there are various locations in and around Panama City that can satisfy most every taste. From modern high end developments to more rustic settings, discovering which lifestyle is best suited to your individual desires is the best way to begin the transition to paradise.
Bernal Saborio
The Panama City, Panama Area Is A Blend of Styles
Panama City is much more than a dynamic Latin Tropic metropolis with a modern infrastructure. While the gorgeous skyline compares with such locations as South Beach, this capital city is actually comprised of three distinct districts-each with their own unique essence.
Whether you are looking for a high rise development in the new city, a restoration project in the old city, or the historical atmosphere of the old colonial area, there are many possibilities to choose from.
Alberto Ruiz
Panama Pacifico
Perhaps no location exemplifies the potential for growth in Panama than Panama Pacifico. Located on the site of the former Howard Air Force Base, this project is, quite literally, building a new city from the ground up sprawling over 4,450 acres.
Conceived by Colombian businessman Jaime Gilinski shortly after the base closed in 1999, it would take until 2010 before construction could actually begin. Since ground was first broken, both residential and commercial projects have begun transforming this former military installation into a new and exciting community.
Being only 15 minutes from Panama City, Panama Pacifico is the ideal spot for expats looking for new construction and business opportunities. With only 15% of the property developed, investors can take advantage of abundant space to transform their dreams into a profitable reality.
Steve Ross
Costa del Este
Costa del Este represents one of the newest areas of Panama. Its location, just five minutes from the heart of Panama City and ten minutes from Tocumen International Airport, have made it one of the most desirable neighborhoods outside of the city itself.
Housing here can range from luxury high rise condominiums to spacious houses. The modern infrastructure has attracted expats and investors who want to live and work in the tropics while enjoying all the amenities of any major U.S. city.
Beyond The Panama City Limits-Three Compelling Options
One of the most significant changes for expats and investors considering the Panama City area was the completion of the Pan American Highway. This highway system has made access to a number of popular destinations a manageable hour or so drive from the city center.
The list below highlights three of the most popular areas outside of Panama City. These locations have attracted the interest of retirees, expats looking for a second home, and investors seeking a higher ROI (return on investment).
Roberto Moreno
Coronado
Coronado is widely considered to be the first planned resort community in Panama. The dream of visionary developer, Bob Eisenmann, Coronado combines the rustic feel of several small villages with the modern amenities and infrastructure of a resort condominium community.
One of the most attractive features of Coronado, Panama is its climate. Located in the “dry arch”, or arco secco region, less rainfall occurs here than in the rest of the country. The large number of English-speaking expats who live in the area is another attractive feature for those who may have trepidations about living in a country where English is not the primary language.
Alexandra Oduber
Farallon
Much like Panama Pacifico, Farallon has risen from the remains of a military base a mere 68 miles from the capital. Once housing Panamanian troops, the facility was destroyed by the U.S. invasion in 1989. Since that time, Farallon and the nearby beaches of Playa Blanca have become one of the most sought after beach destinations in the Latin tropics.
Luxury resort properties, such as Buenaventura, are certain to appeal to those seeking modern amenities and an upscale lifestyle, without the frenetic pace of Panama City. The new international airport at Rio Hato, a short distance away, makes accessing this white sand oasis easier than ever.
Michael Afar
El Valle de Anton
El Valle de Anton is a delightful seven square mile mountain village located roughly 120 km (75 miles) from Panama City. This rustic location is becoming a popular choice for expats seeking to find a less frenzied pace of life that is infused with the cultural essence of “old Panama.”
Located in the caldera of the El Valle volcano, El Valle de Anton is actually the second largest inhabited volcano in the world. It has also become a favorite location for Panama City’s more affluent citizens seeking a weekend retreat far from the hurried pace of the city.
Whether looking for a rustic Panamanian village dwelling or a modern construction home, El Valle de Anton will continue to offer both a unique environment and a great potential for investment.
Panama City Has Both Potential And Promise
With such a wide variety of possibilities for a home in the Latin Tropics, as well as great investment potential, exploring the real estate market for yourself is a great place to start. Finding that “place in the sun” may be as easy as a click of a mouse.
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.
DPD.PDF
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!
Coronado Panama has grown from the vision of its founder, the real estate entrepreneur Bob Eisenmann, to one of the most popular expat destinations in Latin America. The established infrastructure, solid reputation, and modern amenities that can be found in Coronado continue to be a magnet for expat retirees and investors looking for a Pacific paradise.
The Coronado region, as a whole, encompasses a number of smaller, rustic villages and barrios as well as the main community. The desirability of the area continues to drive the real estate market and provide several attractive options for turnkey properties and lots for development.
Yming
An Investment in Coronado, Panama Can Be Life-Changing
Coronado Panama is unique among other Pacific coast locations throughout Latin America in that it was planned and developed specifically to be a high-rise condominium community with modern resort amenities. As a result, Coronado has a well-established expat community that continues to attract new arrivals seeking investment potential and places to live or retire.
One of the biggest initial concerns that many had was the distance between Coronado and Panama City. The completion of the Pan American Highway has now made the connection between Panama’s capital and the beaches at Coronado an easy one-hour drive.
Unique Climate and Geography
Coronado, Panama is gifted with a rare meteorological and ecological aspect. Located in the “dry arch,” or arco seco region, less rainfall occurs here than in the rest of the country. Combined with the savannah-like geography, it is not surprising that the area became known as one of the earliest examples of planned agrarian culture in the Americas.
The earliest Spanish settlers recognized the potential of this land with the result that three major estates were created between 1691 and 1693. These estates would, ultimately, form the basis for the real estate registry in the region. As a result, Coronado and the entire region of Llanos del Chirú (to which it belongs) became an important part of the growth of Panama as a whole.
Just as in the Colonial era, the favorable climate and geography make living and developing here highly desirable. The established resort communities on the coast are a strong support structure for the new projects that are in the planning stage or are already underway.
Modern Convenience, Easy Access, and English Speakers
Getting to Coronado has never been easier. The Tocumen International Airport has regularly scheduled flights from many U.S. cities and arranging transfers to Coronado and the resorts is a convenient matter. Once there, new arrivals will be surprised by the modern conveniences that the community has. Shopping options, high-end restaurants and even a modern mall can meet just about every expat desire.
One of the most important features of this area is the number of established English-speaking expats who call Coronado, Panama home. Being able to communicate without finding someone to translate is a value added feature of life in this area.
Panama Wants You
Panama’s aggressive stance to attract foreign investors and expats looking for a new opportunity has resulted in a number of favorable changes to residency laws. Additionally, retirees qualify for many discounts on everything from entertainment to travel.
The tax benefits for foreign investors are also significant. For properties whose value is $100,000 or less, taxes are exempt for 15 years; between $100,000 and $250,000, ten years and, for values above $250,000, five years. Not having to pay taxes for an extended period makes the prospect of building your own Pacific paradise that much more appealing.
Roberto Moreno
Buying to Invest or to Live – Many Opportunities Exist
The Coronado area goes beyond the principal resort and includes many of the small villages and farms along a 50-mile stretch of Pacific coastline. Finding development opportunities is an easy proposition as the demand for new residences continues to grow.
For those who desire a turnkey home that could double as both a vacation residence and rental income property, there are a number of options available both in the Coronado Beach and Golf Resort, as well as other communities that have sprung up in the region. The wealth of modern amenities makes for a terrific selling point that is only enhanced by the stunning black and white sand beach, a vista that is hard to duplicate elsewhere.
Price points are dependent on the size of the residence, the amenities, and, of course, the location. For example, rental rates can run the gamut from $700 per month to upwards of $3000. With that kind of range, life in Coronado can fit almost every budget.
Not everyone is interested in resort-style living. For those, the surrounding fishing villages and smaller towns offer the ability to immerse oneself in a more rustic lifestyle. Accordingly, prices for homes and lots in these areas are more affordable than the higher-end residences in the resort communities.
Adventurers desiring to follow in Eisenmann’s footsteps will find a large selection of lots that can be purchased for immediate development or held onto as part of an investment portfolio. The Coronado area has rebounded nicely from the financial crisis of 2008 with the result being that property values are steadily climbing, but still affordable.
Panama Lens
Changing Your Life Can Be Priceless
Bob Eisenmann’s vision could be summarized in what is widely regarded as his last wish for his dream project: “Creating from the heart, no matter what the cost.”
Embracing Coronado Panama as a place to form your future can present the opportunity to rediscover the magic of building a new life. Begin this quest by visiting Coronado; explore the region and see for yourself why living here is truly a matter of the heart.
Chaz Jaz
With its beautiful beaches, world class amenities, and excellent location, Coronado, Panama, has often been compared to the glamorous beaches of South Florida. Except without the jaw-dropping price tag.
In fact, despite the area’s incredible growth and development, Coronado, Panama, real estate remains rather affordable. Especially when you consider all the amazing perks that come with owning a piece of this Pacific paradise.
How Coronado, Panama, Real Estate Became So Popular
Like most towns in Latin America, Coronado’s story starts with a Spanish takeover of the native tribes. However, rather than a Colonial city, the Spaniards had a different purpose for the area in and around present-day Coronado.
Recognizing its natural beauty and vast resources, they established large estates where they farmed produce and raised livestock to sell in nearby Panama City and other towns. They also fished the rich waters off the Pacific Coast.
The region remained a largely agrarian settlement until the early 1940’s when the beach town of Coronado was officially founded. The rest, as they say, is history.
In its early days, Coronado attracted Panama’s elite. Its inhabitants included wealthy nationals who purchased second homes in the area, as well as weekend visitors from Panama City looking to escape the urban hustle.
Today, no longer content to hide in the shadow of the Capital, Coronado has become an established destination in its own right. With many of the same conveniences as the big city, offered in a cleaner, quieter, and less frantic package, it’s a popular destination for tourists and expats from all over the world.
R. Moreno H
The Best of What Coronado Has to Offer
It’s hard to compile a concise list of all of the benefits to owning Coronado, Panama, real estate. There are just so many. Here are a few of the biggest perks that make owning property in the area so satisfying.
Coronado’s beaches are postcard-worthy.
It’s hard to talk about the great things about Coronado without first mentioning its gorgeous beaches. Made up of white and volcanic black sand, the town’s pristine shoreline stretches on for miles and miles. On a weekday, you can probably even mark off a whole secluded section just for yourself.
At no point is Coronado’s coast more beautiful than at sunset when the orange sun and pink-streaked sky are reflected in the warm, crystal clear waters. It’s a great time to dine al fresco at one of the seaside resort restaurants or enjoy a cocktail poolside.
Its coastal location also makes Coronado a great place to enjoy all kinds of water sports. Popular favorites are surfing, scuba diving, kiteboarding, sailing, and deep sea fishing.
Its list of amenities is a mile long.
Perhaps because it was the first vacation haven of its kind in Panama, Coronado is light years ahead of most other Latin beach towns. Despite the fact that it’s a developing country, Coronado’s list of features and attractions reads more like that of a first-world resort community.
For starters, it has excellent infrastructure. The roads, transportation systems, and other public services are top notch. Utilities are reliable, and wireless internet is accessible and affordable. Coronado residents can enjoy far less inconveniences than inhabitants of many inferior beach towns.
Beyond the basics, Coronado also offers a wealth of options for shopping and other professional services. There are 3 supermarkets (open 24/7), pharmacies, restaurants serving all types of cuisines, and a private medical facility. Other businesses include a veterinarian, a health club, a dry cleaner, a home improvement store, and a Mailboxes Etc.
For families with children, there are 3 international schools in Coronado. There are also plenty of options for recreation, including tennis courts and a professional 18-hole golf course designed by the world’s top-ranked designer Tom Fazio.
Other amenities include pool and spa facilities, which are included with a resort membership. There’s also an equestrian club for boarding horses.
It’s true what they say about location.
One of the most attractive benefits of Coronado, Panama, real estate is its easy access to…well, anywhere really. It’s situated just a short distance off the Pan-American highway, making the drive to nearby Panama City doable in about an hour (a little longer on weekends or holidays). As a result it’s easy quite easy to get to Coronado by way of Tocumen National Airport.
In addition to the airport, the Capital city also offers any retail solutions that residents aren’t able to find in Coronado, although the beach town now offers almost everything its residents could ever need.
In Panama City, however, the options are much more varied. There are 18-screen movie theaters, high-end boutiques offering brand name clothing, cultural offerings such as museums and art galleries, every type of cuisine imaginable, and a vibrant nightlife. Between the two cities, residents would be hard pressed to find anything they lack.
Despite its well-developed amenities, Coronado maintains a small town feel.
Don’t be fooled by Coronado’s big city conveniences. It’s still a relaxed beach town at heart.
The population is an eclectic mix of native Panamanians and expats from all over North and South America, the U.K., and many other places across the globe. In fact Coronado’s expat community is Panama’s second largest. Only Boquete has more immigrants.
The expat community, as well as the locals, enjoy a deep camaraderie and a lively social scene. The town is welcoming to all foreigners, particularly the many North American immigrants. English is also widely spoken.
Coronado is a great place to get, or stay, fit.
Coronado’s residents are generally very health-conscious. Many grow their own fruits and vegetables, as well as spices for cooking. Those who don’t can easily find fresh options to purchase from numerous street vendors. There are also papaya, mango, and plantain trees everywhere you look.
Not to mention, there are plenty of options for staying active. I mentioned the health club, golf, tennis, and water sports. You can also find groups or classes for practicing yoga or meditation. It also helps that practically everything in Coronado is within walking distance.
Panama Realtor
Coronado Offers a Wealth of Real Estate Options
Obviously Coronado is a great choice for those who are looking for an upscale, turnkey property with loads of amenities for a reasonable price. But thanks to its variety of housing options, it has something to offer buyers with all sorts of interests and at a wide range of price points.
For that first group, there’s Coronado’s central neighborhood, which is gated, guarded, and situated right next to the Coronado Police Department for added safety. For the rest, there’s everything from efficiency apartments to beachside bungalows to sprawling villas on multiple acres.
Prices can vary greatly, depending on the amenities and location of the property, but there are smaller homes to be found in Coronado for as little as $250,000 (or less than that just outside of town). While relatively expensive for Panama, this is extremely affordable by North American standards, especially considering you’re talking about a South Florida lifestyle on a Central American budget.
Some of the less central locations that offer great bargains include Punta Chame, Gorgonia, Santa Clara, Playa Blanca, and Farallon. If you prefer a higher elevation (and a bit of a relief from the heat), there’s El Valle and Altos Del Maria.
Rental rates are also all over the board, with options as low as $700 or as high as $3000 for high-end properties in the most desirable areas. You should also keep in mind that Coronado, like most of Panama, enjoys an incredibly low cost of living.
Luxuries like resort memberships and domestic help are viable options even for those on a moderate budget. For those who qualify for Panama’s pensionado visa, even those who aren’t near retirement age, there are even more savings to be had.
Coronado, Panama, Real Estate Outlook
Don’t be turned off by the fact that Coronado is an established destination that has already arrived. With the area still growing at a rapid pace, there are still plenty of opportunities to profit from real estate investments, as well as new business ventures.
New neighborhoods and communities have been popping up in the Coronado area, even within the past few years. A few example are the Decameron Resort, Breezes, Nikki Beach, Buenaventura, Playa Blanca, Vista Mar, and Bijao.
Along with these new developments comes the need for more and varied retail establishments and other services, making the Coronado area a great choice for the entrepreneurial expat. And with more and more expats continuing to settle there, Coronado, Panama, real estate still has plenty of room for appreciation.
Here’s What You Can Get for Your Money in Coronado
This is a great example of how much pricing can vary in an area, depending on what you’re looking for. Here are some actual properties that are currently listed for sale in Coronado.
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A mere $115,000 is the price of a 3 bedroom, 2 bath home in a gated community in nearby Las Lajas.
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For $275,000 you can have a 3,000 square foot 3 bedroom, 4 bath apartment with an ocean view, a maid’s quarters, and only a short walk to the beach.
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$375,000 buy you a 4 bedroom, 5 bath furnished condo on the golf course with two private balconies offering views of both the sea and the surrounding lush mountains.
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In the same building, $650,000 will get you the 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath penthouse, which includes terrace with stunning wrap-around views and a lifetime membership to the Coronado Golf and Beach Resort.
Coronado truly has something for everyone: the beach bum, the sports enthusiast, the socialite, and more. It’s just a matter of finding your niche.
And with such amazing natural beauty and some of Central America’s best amenities, there’s no better place to look. See what particular piece of Coronado, Panama, real estate might be calling your name.
Sandra Conoso
Coronado Panama, could be the ideal place for expats who are looking for world-class amenities and natural beauty all wrapped up in one convenient little package. Coronado offers a resort lifestyle comparable to the atmosphere of some of South Florida’s beaches, but without the seven figure price tag. However, with its nice variety of housing options, it’s also great for the would-be expat who’s looking for a place a little further off the beaten path.
For many years Coronado served as a destination where wealthy Panamanians purchased second homes or where people flocked on weekends and holidays to escape the hubbub of Panama City. Today it’s become an international tourist and expat hotspot in its own right. An established destination, it offers many of the same conveniences and attractions as the nearby capital, but in a cleaner, quieter, and less hurried atmosphere.
Here are a few of the reasons Coronado, Panama, is one of the nation’s best places to live as an expat:
1. Coronado offers convenient proximity to Panama City.
Coronado can be reached easily from North America, by way of Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport. It’s also just a short distance off the Pan-American highway, making it very accessible by car or bus from the nation’s capital, although the roads can sometimes be congested (particularly on weekends or around holidays).
While Coronado now has almost everything its foreign residents could ever need, nearby Panama City offers even more. Panama City is quite cosmopolitan, with its 18-screen movie theaters, numerous museums and galleries, high-end boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. So, expats seeking a particular flavor of fusion cuisine or a specific brand name clothing label can likely find it only a short hour’s drive away.
While in Panama City, you can also stock up on things that might be slightly more difficult to find in Coronado, although the beach community’s selection of most items is rapidly growing as more and more businesses open. Those needing a break from the coastal heat can also find relief in the cooler elevations of the nearby Valle de Anton, which is about 50 minutes up the hill.
Coronado also offers excellent routine health care and emergency services at its San Fernando Clinic. However, those who require more specialized care can find it with the local hospital’s affiliate, Clinica Hospital San Fernando, one of Panama City’s best.
Matthew Straubmuller
2. Coronado Panama has a well-established expat community.
After many years as a hotspot for wealthy Panamanians, Coronado has recently gained tremendous popularity among expats. In addition to immigrants from the U.S. and Canada, Coronado is also home to expats from the U.K. and places all across South America. In fact, it boasts Panama’s second-largest expat community (after Boquete).
As a result of decades of expat influx, Coronado has become increasingly friendly to North Americans and other foreigners. English is widely spoken, and many North American conveniences have already been established.
However, despite its size and its strong North American influence, residents love Coronado for its strangely small-town feeling. It is a close-knit community, with a lively social scene. A deep camaraderie exists, not only among its expats, but also between them and the native Panamanians who live or vacation in Coronado.
Marcio Da Mata
3. Coronado has some of the most beautiful beaches on Panama’s Pacific coast.
Those visiting Coronado might often find themselves having to do a double take to be sure they haven’t mistakenly landed somewhere on an established beach in South Florida. Its black and white sand stretches on for miles and miles, allowing for a beautiful natural setting that’s adjacent to world-class resorts and high-rise condos.
Coronado’s seaside location also makes it a great place to enjoy a variety of water sports, such as surfing or kiteboarding. You can also enjoy activities such as scuba diving, sailing, or deep sea fishing.
And everything is within walking distance. You can spend the morning at the health club, playing tennis. Then you can stroll down the beach to dine with a friend at a seaside cafe. After a dip in the ocean, you can walk back to your condo for a shower before meeting your spouse for a fine dining experience at the neighboring resort’s restaurant, looking out on a spectacular sunset.
4. Coronado offers an abundance of lifestyle and leisure options.
As Coronado’s expat population has grown, so have the number of options available for shopping, recreation, and other professional services. A resort membership provides you access to a professional golf course and tennis courts. You can also enjoy the pool and spa facilities. There’s even an equestrian club available for boarding horses.
Shopping plazas continue to pop up everywhere, and there are three supermarkets that are open round-the-clock. A variety of restaurants offer plenty of cuisine options. There are pharmacies, a private medical clinic, and even a veterinarian. There’s also a popular department store and a popular Panamanian home improvement store.
Other conveniences include a dry cleaner, a Mailboxes Etc., and a new gym. There are also three international schools in Coronado, making it a great option for young expat families with children. Businesses and services grow in response to expat needs, so as more and more foreign residents relocate to Coronado its options are likely to continue to increase.
5. Coronado’s infrastructure is better than that of most other coastal areas.
Great infrastructure is often somewhat of a rarity for beach communities. Not so in Coronado, due in part to its location and its long-standing rank as a top destination for locals and expats. This equates to conveniences like water and electrical service that are widely available and extremely reliable.
Also readily accessible is wireless internet, which is also very affordable. Coronado also has great roads, transportation, and other public services. As a result, it’s one of the country’s most turnkey options for expats who want a move-in ready home, community, and city. Coronado isn’t up-and-coming. It has already arrived.
6. Coronado offers lots of options for staying healthy and fit.
The people of Coronado, Panama, are an extremely health-minded community. Many residents grown their own fruits and vegetables, as well as spices for healthy cooking. Mango, papaya, plantain, and banana trees can be found everywhere. Fresh, locally-grown produce can also be purchased from a number of street vendors.
In addition to healthy eating, many residents of Coronado lead very active lifestyles. In addition to water sports you can find expats playing golf or tennis at the resort or gym. There are also groups and classes where you can participate in yoga or meditation. Many expats also spend their time staying mentally and spiritually fit by volunteering or supporting local causes.
Vivi Panama
7. Coronado has community and housing options for every budget and lifestyle.
Coronado’s central neighborhood is a gated community, which is guarded and also situated next to the Coronado Police Department for added security. This upscale area is well secured and has top-notch private facilities.
However, resort-style living isn’t necessarily for everyone. Coronado has a wide variety of choices to suit any preference. You can choose a Tuscan villa on a secluded lot, an efficiency apartment in a high-rise building, or a beachside bungalow with a view of the sea.
Prices can vary drastically, depending on the property’s location and amenities, but a smaller home can be had for as little as $250,000. Rental rates could range from $700 on up to $3000 or more for some of the most desirable properties.
While slightly more expensive than many areas in Panama, Coronado is still extremely affordable by North American standards. For expats who don’t mind being a bit farther from the action, you can find bargains on real estate in nearby areas such as the hillside town of Las Lajas, where you can find a modest home for under $200,000.
Coronado also has the added benefit of being in Panama, which enjoys an incredibly low cost of living. All this luxury can still be enjoyed for a fraction of the cost for the same lifestyle in North America, including high-speed internet and a full-time maid. Those eligible for the country’s pensionado visa can benefit from even greater savings.
Coronado, Panama, could be the perfect place for you if you’re a would-be expat who doesn’t want to compromise your lifestyle. And why should you? Here you can enjoy all the amenities of a South Florida retirement on a Latin American budget. Combine that with easy access and first-world infrastructure and you have a recipe for luxury.
Whether or not Coronado ends up being your ideal retirement destination, it certainly isn’t a shabby place to visit. Plan your trip today to find out if Coronado, Panama, is right for you.
Map of Coronado Panama
Use this quick map to see where Coronado fits in Panama and its proximity to the nearest international airport, Tocumen International Airport.
Fast Facts
- Population: About 20,000.
- Typical temperature: Ranges mid 80s to upper 90s
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Tocumen Airport, Panama City
- Nearest U.S. consulate: Panama City
If you are planning on making a move down to the lush tropics of Panama, why not take a moment to learn a little something about the Panama health care system and where to find hospitals that will offer quality and expat friendly care.
Luckily, you won’t have to look far. Equipped with two branches of health care, public and private, Panama is recognized for its world class institutions and qualified medical professionals. But in a country with such a strong health care system, where should you go to find the best possible care?
The Best of the Best
1. Hospital Punta Pacifica
hospitalpuntapacifica.com
First on the list is Hospital Punta Pacifica. A full-service private hospital praised for its trained physicians and immaculate facilities, Punta Pacifica is not only the only John Hopkins affiliated hospital in Panama, but in Central America as well.
Hospital Punta Pacifica employs over 350 medical specialists, and through the use of continuing education programs, these specialists are constantly updated to keep their knowledge current. This hospital can be found in Punta Pacifica, and although it is one of the more expensive institutions in Panama, inside you can expect to receive first rate care at the hand of qualified professionals.
2. Paitilla Hospital (Centro Médico Paitilla)
centromedicopaitilla.com
Next on the list is Paitilla Hospital. Located in Punta Paitilla, this facility is one of the oldest private hospitals in Panama and is a great choice for expats since most of the staff speak English. This is due to the fact that many of the doctors completed residencies in the United States and Europe before settling in at Paitilla Hospital.
While best known for its oncology unit, Paitilla Hospital is staffed with medical professionals that specialize in many different branches of medicine. Some of their departments include:
- Radiology and imaging
- Laboratory and anatomic pathology
- Cancer center
- Critical care unit for newborns and adults, and
- Cardiac catheterization unit
3. Hospital Chiriqui
hospitalchiriqui.com
Hospital Chiriqui, located in the city of David (near the Costa Rica border), is an institution with a reputation for providing exceptional medical care for over twenty years now.
The Hospital Chiriqui is a private hospital staffed with medical professionals that specialize in anesthesiology cardiology, reconstructive surgery, dermatology, and radiology (to name a few). In order to keep providing quality patient care, the Hospital Chiriqui is currently developing a clinic in the small town of Boquete, Chiriqui that will provide services like ambulance, pharmacy and primary health care to patients, twenty-four hours a day.
4. Hospital Nacional
www.hospitalnacional.com
If you visit Hospital Nacional, located in the Bella Vista area of Panama City, you can expect to receive quality care. This hospital is staffed with over 100 specialists and has an impressive nurse to patient ratio (one nurse per every ten patients). This facility also offers a diverse range of patient services like:
- A clinical laboratory
- A pathology laboratory
- A genetics center
- An emergency room
- and an intensive care unit
Hospital Nacional is also welcoming to out-of-towners for they even accept international health care plans.
5. Hospital Santa Fe
hospitalsantafepanama.com
Last on the list is the Hospital Santa Fe. Nestled in the center of Panama City and located mere minutes from the Panama Canal, the Hospital Santa Fe concentrates on creating individual health care plans that are patient specific. Founded in 1984, Hospital Santa Fe uses the latest technology, state-of-the-art equipment, and many English speaking, American-trained doctors to treat their patients.
Hospital Santa Fe is also on-board with the new wave of medical tourism and offers many health tourism packages that claim to provide the same quality care as American hospitals at a more affordable rate.
So before you pack your suitcase and whisk off to Panama, be sure to look into the local health care system and the available hospitals, so that when the time comes, you can make an educated and confident decision.
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.