The top 5 best beaches and Islands in Panama you need to visit

Jennifer White
Sep 10, 2018 · 4 min read

Are you planning to visit Panama and do a trip to Panama beaches? Discover 5 great beaches you should visit and learn some quick tips and takeaways of the best beaches in Panama

As you probably know, Panama is the country that connects North and Central America with South America. Panama is surrounded by the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean and thanks to that, Panama offers incredible islands and beaches

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Hand made designes by Guna Yala natives — Molas

San Blas Islands

San Blas is a group of more than 350 islands located in one of the indigenous areas of the country which is in control of Guna Yala natives. San Blas is a popular destination among tourists and the reason why is because of its paradisiac and crystal-clear water beaches. Being on the islands, you would be able to experience traditional native food, do water activities and learn more about the Panamanian culture.

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To get to these islands in Panama, the recommended way to do it is by boking on of the multiple tours in San Blas because they normally include a tour guide, round trip by car and on boat; otherwise you have you take a bus to the port and then buy a ticket to take a boat that takes you to the island, pay entrance and some other fees.

Playa Venao

Playa Venao is one of the favourite beaches for surfers. If you are a fan of the wild waves, then, you must visit this incredible place which is one of the best beaches in Panama to do surfing. Playa Venao is located in Pedasi in Los Santos province and it offers picturesque villages to stay in, white sand, a unique vibe, restaurants and a large beach to chill, swim and surf.

Isla Taboga

If you are visiting Panama City and would like to go a beach near the city, you can easily go to Isla Taboga in a round trip. By taking either the ferry or a small boat, you can be in Isla Taboga / Taboga Island in less than an hour to spend a peaceful getaway from the rush of the city. This is one the favourite islands in Panama that gets more traffic during summer and weekends where you can feel being in a paradise. A great tip is that you would be able to see dolphins and whales very close to you during the months of mid-August to mid-October.

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Starfish Beach in Bocas del Toro, Panama

Playa de las Estrellas

Playa de las Estrellas or Starfish Beach, in English, is located in Bocas de Toro and it is another Paradise you need to visit in Panama. Offering beautiful turquoise water, pristine white sand, many starfish within the waters of the beach, and different options of tours and activities in Bocas del Toro. Just remember to not take out the starfish from the water because it affects their health.

Playa La Angosta

Another close beach to Panama City is Playa La Angosta which is located in Colon. This Caribbean beach is on the list of every locals when they want to do a trip to Panama beaches. In playa La Angosta you would be able to take your own cooler with drinks and perhaps take some food with you, but we totally recommend you to taste the delicious flavours of the Colon cousine which can be any type of seafood such as fish, shrimps, lobster, octopus, crab, among others accompanied by a delicious and unique rice with coconut or the popular Patacones which are also a must-taste Panamanian food.

You can spend a nice and fun weekend getaway and do as many of the things to do in Colon you want.

Caribbean Islands in Panama

Even though Panama is a small country, being located between two oceans, gives you the opportunity to plan a perfect trip to Panama beaches and explore different islands in Panama.

If you are planning to visit Panama very soon, you might want to read this handy guide of Panamanian phrases.

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