There is a long list of places to visit in Panama all year, however the months between December and May is the perfect time to enjoy the wonders that nature has gifted this country. The reason is that this time of year is considered the dry season, so there are very few chances of rain that could ruin a day out.

It is safe to say that these months are the best to discover the amazing landscapes that Panama offers its own as well as foreigners: miles of heavenly beaches, islands with imposing beauty, mountains with incredible species of both plants and animals. And you cannot forget that Panama City is home to cosmopolitan spaces that could compete with any modern capital in the world, as well as the most amazing engineering feat which is the Panama Canal.

Beaches and more beaches

Buenaventura and the Panamanian Pacific Riviera

At the feet of the Panamanian Pacific Riviera and only 90 minutes from the city, Buenaventura stands as the best beach community in the country, as well as in the Central American region.

Along its 400 acres, this community holds diverse projects designed by the most prestigious architects in the country that have put their unique signature along its icon: the 7,383 yard golf course designed by Nicklaus Design.

A five star hotel, multiple restaurants, Wine Bar & Deli, varied beach clubs and a soon to be opened marina developed with the highest world standards to make it your point of entry to sea adventures, making Buenaventura the best beach community in the region.

Bocas del Toro

This beautiful archipelago is one of the first tourist destinations in Panama: undulating palm trees, golden beaches and turquoise waters make up the images of the great beauty that is Bocas del Toro. In these beaches you can surf, snorkel or simply enjoying some sea and sun.

To get to Bocas del Toro, you can take a plane to the International Airport in Colon Island. Another more economical route is to take a bus from Panama City to Almirante, which is where you can take a boat to Bocas del Toro. However, it is important to keep in mind that the road might be difficult so it is better to be informed ahead of time.

Coiba

Coiba Island hosts a marine national park: and well recognized since here you can find unique species unlike anywhere in the world. Environmentalists will highly enjoy Coiba since they will be able to delight their eyes with exotic birds flying the skies as well as swim with schools of multiple colored fishes.

Coiba is located around 24 kilometers from the Pacific coast. To get to this island that is 494 kilometers square, you can fly from Panama City to Santiago. Here you can take a cab or bus to Santa Catalina which is where the main boats depart from towards the park. This last portion of the trip can last a little less than an hour. There are also options to make the trip through land.

San Blas

San Blas is an archipelago with white sand beaches, turquoise waters and palm trees that move to the rhythm of a soft breeze. To arrive it is necessary to go with a boat, sail boats or canoes. There are even options to stay in remote islands surrounded by translucent waters. A piece of heaven on earth! 

To reach San Blas, you can fly from Panama City to one of the big islands that have an airport: Achutupo (‎ACU), Corazón de Jesús (‎CZJ)‎, El Porvenir (‎PVE)‎, Malatupo (‎MPP)‎, Playón Chico (‎PYC)‎ o Puerto Obaldía (‎PUE)‎.

Santa Catalina

For surf lovers, Santa Catalina will be the ideal spot. This small fishing town became a paradise for surfers. The sea here is perfect to practice this sport thus its beaches are constantly full of these types of fanatics. It holds small hotels and hostels in front of the ocean; this area does not have any big luxurious hotels.

Excursions to Coiba Island tend to leave from Santa Catalina. To get here you can fly from Panama City to Santiago and then travel through taxi or bus until Santa Catalina.

This information was developed by Panama Living, a digital platform committed to collecting, researching, and disseminating all the necessary information to turn your interest in Panama into a pleasant and enriching experience.