Top 4 Best Nearest Beaches to Panama City

Panama City boasts of year-round mild temperatures and vibrant local culture. However, the best thing about Panama City is its proximity to many beaches. It takes less than a two-hour drive from the city to arrive at a fantastic beach destination.

So, what are some of the best beaches near Panama City? Read on to find out.

1. Coronado

Coronado is arguably the most popular Panama beach town. Located near the Panama Bay, this beach town is only an hour’s drive from Panama City. Beaches in Coronado are ideal and pleasant enough for you to enjoy a quick escape from the city.

In the past few years, Coronado has grown to include all the amenities once only found in Panama City. Now, it has a modern hospital and numerous shopping malls and supermarkets. Still, the beach remains tranquil and uncluttered.

If you are a beach enthusiast, you will enjoy surfing, swimming, and sunbathing. For more “sand-less” opportunities, you can check into a hotel or resort with a great pool or even try one with a golf course. The point is, there are opportunities for everyone in Coronado.

2. Portobelo

North of Panama City, you will find Portobelo, a port city with many beautiful beaches. From Portobelo, you can easily access the Playa Blanca beach and go on a tour of the Portobelo coast on a boat.

Or, you can hit the Isla Grande, a beautiful island with clear waters. Isla Grande is popular with surfers due to its point breaks that make great waves.

For a unique and more private experience, consider the El Otro Lado, a private resort you can access by boat from Portobelo.

Portobelo is about more than just beach opportunities. It has a rich cultural and historical experience due to several colonial Spanish ruins, proximity to the Panama Canal, and it is home to the Fort San Lorenzo, all that is probably the reason it is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. Taboga

Taboga Island, also known as the Island of Flowers, is about 20 kilometers off the Panama City coast. The most convenient way to access Taboga Island is by ferry from the Causeway Amador.

In just 30 minutes by ferry, you will have arrived at the sandy beach of Taboga. There you can spend your time strolling, swimming, or even lounging.

If you fancy aquatic life, numerous local establishments provide snorkeling trips around the island.

Or are you more interested in culture and history? Then you can visit St. Peter’s Church. This Church, which was founded in 1550, is the second oldest in the Western Hemisphere.

Should you decide to extend your stay in Taboga Island, there is a wide range of hotels to choose from. Perhaps the best is Villa Caprichosa, located on the island’s hills, which offers a breathtaking view.

4. Contadora

Contadora is probably the most tranquil beach destination close to Panama City. It is part of the Pearl Archipelago, which is a chain of islands which have received famous visitors over the years. Contadora is not only quiet but also crime-free. No cars are allowed to preserve the tranquility of the island.

Contadora is a 25-minute flight from Panama City, or you can take an hour and half long ferry ride.

Opportunities in the island include snorkeling in the clear water, lounging on the sandy beaches, and enjoying seafood on the patio of a nice restaurant. Contadora is the perfect weekend getaway – you will head back to the city feeling relaxed and refreshed.