Discover Panama: Mountains, Beaches, and More
Welcome to Beasley Finds! Today, I’m taking you on a journey through Panama, a stunning country that’s home to both majestic mountains and pristine beaches. From bustling Panama City to the tranquil San Blas Islands, we’ll explore the best this Central American gem has to offer.
Panama: A Land of Contrasts
Panama, slightly smaller than South Carolina, offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. The narrow isthmus of Panama separates the Caribbean Sea from the Pacific Ocean, and its mountainous spine creates the opportunity to enjoy both the ocean and cooler highlands in one trip.
Whether you’re a beach lover or a mountain enthusiast, Panama has something for everyone. Here are my top picks for places you won’t want to miss.
Start in Panama City
Our adventure begins in Panama City, just a four-hour flight from the NY metro area. Known for its modern skyline and year-round temperatures in the high 80s, Panama City offers a surprising blend of culture and relaxation. Many rental units come equipped with pools, so you’ll always have a way to cool off. Actually, some of the condo rentals have stunning rooftop pools with panoramic views.
Surrounded by both oceans, Panama City is the gateway to a wide range of activities, from exploring the Panama Canal to venturing into nearby beach towns or highland retreats.
The Marvel of the Panama Canal
No trip to Panama City is complete without visiting the world-famous Panama Canal. At its narrowest point, Panama is only 30 miles wide, and that’s where you’ll find this engineering marvel. Head to the Miraflores Locks, just 15 minutes from downtown, to witness ships being raised and lowered through the canal’s lock system.
The San Blas Islands: Caribbean Paradise
If pristine beaches are your thing, then the San Blas Islands are calling your name. Located off Panama’s Caribbean coast, this archipelago of 365 islands is managed by the Guna-Yala indigenous people. A visit here requires a little extra effort—a 4-hour journey by jeep and water taxi—but the experience is well worth it. To get there faster, you can also take a helicopter ride if that’s in your budget.
When you get there, live like the locals in rustic huts and take water taxis to nearby islands or opt for a sailboat BnB to explore more of these untouched islands. Just remember: this is more of a national park experience, so don’t expect 5-star amenities—just 5-star views!
Coronado and Nueva Gorgona: Pacific Coast Gems
For a more laid-back beach vibe, check out the Coronado area, a favorite vacation spot for both locals and expats. About an hour from Panama City, Coronado offers modern amenities, gated communities, and quiet Pacific beaches. Nearby Nueva Gorgona is slightly less developed but offers a peaceful retreat with black-and-white sand beaches and a calm atmosphere.
El Valle de Antón: A Mountain Getaway
Leaving the beach behind, we head into the mountains to one of my favorite places—El Valle de Antón. Nestled in an extinct volcanic crater, this mountain town is an outdoor lover’s paradise. At 2,000 feet above sea level, the climate is cooler, offering a refreshing escape from the heat of Panama City.
El Valle is perfect for hiking, exploring waterfalls, or simply wandering through the local market. If you’re looking to balance your beach trip with a little mountain adventure, this is the place to do it.
Boquete: The Highland Gem
Next, we travel to Boquete, situated on the eastern flank of Volcán Barú. Known for its lush gardens, cool climate, and stunning views, Boquete is a popular retirement destination for expats. At 4,500 feet above sea level, it enjoys eternal spring weather, with temperatures ranging from 60-80 degrees year-round.
Don’t miss the local coffee tours, where you can sample Panama’s world-famous Geisha coffee, or take a tour up Volcán Barú for panoramic views of both the Pacific and Caribbean Oceans.
Bocas del Toro: Chill Caribbean Vibes
Finally, we wrap up our journey in Bocas del Toro, a beautiful archipelago in Panama’s northwest. With its laid-back vibe, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, Bocas offers something for everyone. From island hopping to snorkeling in coral reefs, this destination is perfect for sunseekers and adventure lovers alike.
You can reach Bocas Del Toro by car and water ferry or by plane from Panama City or the City of David. If this virtual tour of Panama has inspired you, be sure to watch our YouTube Panama Playlist on the Beasley Finds Channel where we go into much more detail. Thanks for joining me, and see you on the next adventure!