ByPanama City Beach is a tropical paradise along the stunning Emerald Coast of Florida. Famous for its gorgeous beaches, crystal blue oceans, and plenty of outdoor activities, this place offers numerous options of attractions for tourists.
Imagine sinking your toes into powdery sands as the warm sun kisses your skin. The crystal-clear waters beckon you to take a refreshing dip while the rhythmic waves provide a soothing soundtrack to your blissful escape. Picture yourself strolling along miles of pristine, powder-white beaches, the rhythmic waves lapping at your feet, and the gentle sea breeze caressing your face.
Whether you’re seeking a serene spot for relaxation or a vibrant beach party atmosphere, the shores of Panama City Beach cater to all tastes and moods. Panama City Beach has something to offer whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill-seeker, or simply seeking relaxation. According to Weather Spark, the weather in Panama City Beach can vary throughout the year, offering different experiences depending on the season.
From sun-soaked beaches to thrilling water sports and vibrant nightlife to family-friendly attractions, this article will guide you through the top things to do in Panama City Beach.
Beaches in Panama
Starfish Beach
Starfish Beach, located on Isla Colon in Panama’s Bocas del Toro province, is a magnificent coastal destination famous for its crystal clear blue seas and prolific starfish population. The beach gets its name from the abundance of starfish in the shallow waters, making it an excellent spot for snorkelling and underwater photography.
The beach is distinguished by its beautiful white sand and quiet waves, creating a warm atmosphere for beachgoers. Visitors can relax on the beach, soak in the sun, and cool in warm waters. The presence of starfish offers a special touch to the beach experience, allowing guests to get up close and intimate with these fascinating creatures.
Red Frog Beach
Red Frog Beach is another popular beach destination in Panama, located on Isla Bastimentos, also part of the Bocas del Toro archipelago. This beautiful beach combines natural beauty, rich greenery, and an untouched coastline. The beach gets its name from the bright red poison dart frogs that live there. These small amphibians are unique and can often be spotted along the trails leading to the beach. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing and swimming or explore the surrounding tropical rainforest through hiking trails.
Water Sports in Panama
Dolphin & Whale Watching in Panama
Panama Dive Center
The Panama Dive Center is a reputable organization offering dolphin and whale watching excursions in Panama. They provide guided tours led by experienced marine biologists who offer insights into the behaviour and characteristics of these magnificent marine mammals.
Coral Dreams
Coral Dreams is another reliable provider of dolphin and whale-watching experiences in Panama. They offer boat tours that take visitors to prime locations where dolphins and whales can be observed in their natural habitat. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share interesting facts about Panama’s marine life and ecosystems.
Parasailing & Paragliding in Panama
Skydive Panama
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Skydive Panama offers thrilling parasailing experiences. Visitors can soar high above the coastline, enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. The company ensures safety and provides trained instructors to guide participants throughout the activity.
Parapente Torio
Parapente Torio is a renowned paragliding company in Panama. They offer tandem flights, allowing individuals to experience the exhilaration of paragliding while safely strapped to an experienced pilot. The flights provide panoramic views of Panama’s beaches, forests, and mountains.
River Rafting & Tubing in Panama
Full Adventures Boquete
Full Adventures Boquete is a well-established adventure tour operator offering Panama river rafting and tubing experiences. They provide thrilling rafting trips on various rivers, catering to different skill levels. Experienced guides accompany participants, ensuring safety and providing informative commentary on the natural surroundings.
Adventures Panama
Adventures Panama is another reputable company specializing in river rafting and tubing adventures. They offer exciting trips on rivers that meander through Panama’s lush landscapes. The tours provide opportunities to navigate through thrilling rapids and enjoy the natural beauty of the country’s waterways.
Kayaking & Canoeing in Panama
Chagres River Kayak Expedition
Chagres River Kayak Expedition offers guided kayaking tours on the scenic Chagres River. Participants can paddle through tranquil waters, surrounded by dense tropical rainforests and diverse wildlife. The tours often include stops at historical sites, such as Emberá indigenous villages, providing a cultural experience alongside the adventure.
Portobelo Sea Kayaking and Snorkeling
Portobelo Sea Kayaking and Snorkeling offer an exciting combination of kayaking and snorkelling adventures. Participants can explore the pristine coastal waters of Portobelo, located on the Caribbean side of Panama. The guided kayaking tours allow visitors to paddle through mangrove forests, secluded coves, and vibrant coral reefs.
Nature and Parks in Panama
Gardens in Panama
Summit Botanical Gardens
Summit Botanical Gardens, located near Panama City, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The gardens span over 250 hectares and showcase diverse tropical plants and flowers. Visitors can stroll along well-maintained trails, marvel at the colourful orchids, and observe native bird species in their natural habitats. The gardens also offer educational programs and workshops to promote environmental awareness.
Finca Dracula
Finca Dracula is a unique orchid farm in Chiriqui province’s mountains. This botanical paradise is home to an extensive collection of orchid species, including rare and exotic varieties. Visitors can take guided tours, admire the stunning displays of vibrant blooms, and learn about these delicate flowers’ cultivation and conservation efforts.
Hot Springs & Geysers in Panama
El Valle Panama Hot Springs
El Valle Panama Hot Springs is a natural thermal spa in the picturesque town of El Valle de Anton. The hot springs offer a rejuvenating experience as visitors can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters known for their therapeutic properties. Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes, these hot springs provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Los Pozos Termales
Los Pozos Termales, nestled in the Boquete region, is another popular hot spring destination in Panama. Lush cloud forests surround the springs and offer a serene setting for relaxation. Visitors can immerse themselves in the warm pools, allowing the natural mineral waters to soothe their muscles and provide a sense of well-being.
Famous Hotels in Panama
- Bluegreen’s Bayside Resort and Spa
- Holiday Inn Resort
- Radisson Panama City Beach
- Hampton Inn & Suites
- Sugar Sands Beachfront Hotel
Mountains in Panama
The Sleeping Indian Girl
The Sleeping Indian Girl, or La India Dormida, is a prominent mountain formation in the Anton Valley region of Panama. The mountain resembles the silhouette of a sleeping woman, hence its name. Hiking trails lead to viewpoints where visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The area is rich in biodiversity, offering opportunities for birdwatching and exploring the lush tropical forests.
Volcan Baru National Park
Volcan Baru National Park is home to Panama’s highest peak. Situated in the western province of Chiriqui, the park offers a range of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts. Just like Zion National Park towering red cliffs, Volcan Baru National Park has its own majestic allure. Visitors can embark on challenging hikes to the summit of Volcan Baru, where they can witness breathtaking sunrises and panoramic views stretching across the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The park’s diverse ecosystem is home to various flora and fauna, including colorful orchids, howler monkeys, and exotic bird species. With its well-maintained trails and captivating landscapes, Volcan Baru National Park is a must-visit destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Monkey Island
Monkey Island, located on Gatun Lake near Panama City, is a sanctuary for various primate species. Visitors can take boat tours to observe monkeys in their natural habitat, including capuchins, howlers, and spider monkeys. The island is also home to other wildlife, such as sloths, toucans, and crocodiles, providing a unique opportunity for nature lovers to experience Panama’s diverse ecosystems.
Butterfly Haven
Butterfly Haven in El Valle de Anton is a nature reserve that conserves butterflies and their habitats. Visitors can explore butterfly gardens and witness the colourful winged creatures’ different life stages. The reserve also offers educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of butterfly conservation.
Shopping in Panama
Albrook Mall
Albrook Mall, located in Panama City, is one of the largest shopping centers in Panama. With over 700 stores, it offers various shopping options, including fashion boutiques, electronics, home goods, and more. Visitors can explore multiple levels of retail space, enjoy diverse dining options, and even catch a movie at the mall’s cinema. Albrook Mall is a popular destination for locals and tourists looking for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Multiplaza Pacific
Multiplaza Pacific is another premier shopping destination in Panama City. This upscale mall features a sophisticated ambiance and houses a variety of luxury brands, designer boutiques, and international retailers. Shoppers can indulge in high-end fashion, accessories, cosmetics, and fine dining. The mall also hosts cultural events and art exhibitions, creating a vibrant and dynamic shopping experience.
Nightlife in Panama
Bars & Clubs in Panama
Chupitos 507
Chupitos 507 is a lively bar in Panama City’s vibrant Casco Viejo neighbourhood. Known for its energetic atmosphere and creative shot cocktails, Chupitos 507 offers a unique and fun-filled nightlife experience. The bar features a wide selection of shots with entertaining names and themes, and visitors can enjoy live music and a bustling dance floor.
Panama Bar Crawl
For those who want to explore the diverse nightlife scene of Panama City, the Panama Bar Crawl offers an exciting way to experience the city’s bars and clubs. The bar crawl takes participants on a guided tour, visiting popular nightlife spots to enjoy drink specials and music and socialize with fellow party-goers.
Karaoke Bars in Panama
El Karaoke 50
El Karaoke 50 is a popular karaoke bar in Panama City, known for its extensive song selection and vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can grab a microphone, choose their favourite songs from a vast catalogue, and sing their hearts out in front of a supportive crowd. The bar also offers private karaoke rooms for groups who prefer a more intimate setting.
El Green Room Karaoke
El Green Room Karaoke, located in the El Cangrejo neighbourhood of Panama City, is another top spot for karaoke enthusiasts. The venue provides a lively and welcoming environment for guests to showcase their singing skills. With a wide range of songs in multiple languages, everyone can find their favourite tunes to sing with friends.
Dance Clubs & Discos in Panama
La Lguana Surf Bar
La Lguana Surf Bar is a popular dance club and bar located in Bocas del Toro. The club offers a vibrant nightlife experience with energetic live music, DJs, and a dance floor that keeps the party going all night. Visitors can enjoy a mix of local and international music, creating a lively and diverse atmosphere.
Wahaka Party
Wahaka Party is a renowned Panama City nightclub known for its electrifying atmosphere and world-class DJs. The club features state-of-the-art sound systems, impressive light shows, and a spacious dance floor. With a focus on electronic music and a trendy ambiance, Wahaka Party attracts locals and international visitors seeking an unforgettable clubbing experience.
Coffeehouses in Panama
Boquete Valley Ruiz Coffee Shop
Boquete Valley Ruiz Coffee Shop is a cozy and inviting coffeehouse located in the famous coffee-growing region of Boquete. The shop offers a selection of premium Panamanian coffee, known for its rich flavours and high quality. Visitors can relax comfortably, savour freshly brewed coffee, and learn about the country’s coffee production through informative displays and demonstrations.
Mi Jardin Coffee Bar
Mi Jardin Coffee Bar, situated in Panama City, is a charming coffeehouse combining a cozy atmosphere and delicious coffee. The café serves a variety of coffee beverages made from locally sourced beans. Visitors can enjoy specialty coffees, including espresso-based drinks and pour-over brews, while relaxing in a serene garden. Mi Jardin Coffee Bar also offers a selection of pastries and light snacks to complement the coffee experience.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Panama offers travellers a diverse range of attractions and activities. Panama has something to offer every taste and preference, whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, thrilling water sports, immersive nature experiences, vibrant nightlife, or a relaxing coffee break. From the stunning beaches to the exhilarating water sports, the country is an adventure seeker’s paradise. With its diverse attractions and warm hospitality, Panama is a destination that promises unforgettable memories for all who visit.
