Pacific Beaches of Panama: Surf, Sun, and Serenity
Stretching from Panama City to the Azuero Peninsula and beyond, Panama’s Pacific coastline is a paradise for surfers, sunseekers, and travelers looking for a laid-back beach escape. Known for its rolling waves, black and golden sand beaches, and charming fishing towns, the Pacific side of Panama feels authentic, rustic, and untouched in all the right ways.
Whether you're learning to surf in Playa Venao, exploring the vibrant marine life of Santa Catalina, or unwinding in the hidden paradise of Cambutal, Panama’s Pacific beaches promise relaxed vibes and natural beauty.
Top Pacific Beach Destinations
Top Things to Do on Panama’s Pacific Coast
Whether you're chasing waves, watching wildlife, or winding down with yoga by the sea, Panama’s Pacific coast offers a rich blend of nature, adventure, and relaxation. Here are the top experiences you won’t want to miss:
Surf World-Class Pacific Waves
From gentle beach breaks to hollow reef barrels, the Pacific coast is a surfer’s dream.
Playa Venao is ideal for beginners, with consistent surf and a fun, social atmosphere. Santa Catalina attracts more advanced surfers with powerful waves, while Cambutal remains a quiet secret for those seeking solitude in the lineup.
Lessons, board rentals, and surf camps are available in all three areas. Check out our Surfing in Playa Venao Guide.
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving in Marine Reserves
Embark on an ocean adventure in Coiba National Park, often called the “Galápagos of Central America.” This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to an astonishing array of marine life — including sea turtles, manta rays, reef sharks, dolphins, and vibrant coral gardens. Explore Coiba Diving Tours!
Day trips and PADI-certified dive courses are available from Santa Catalina.
Wildlife Watching Along the Coast
Panama's pacific coast is a sanctuary for wildlife lovers. From July to October, humpback whales migrate along the Azuero coastline — often breaching just offshore from Pedasí or Isla Cañas. In season, you might also witness sea turtle nesting, especially on protected beaches near Isla Cañas and Cambutal. Visit Isla Cañas Wildlife Reserve.
Keep an eye out for iguanas, monkeys, and coastal birds during hikes and beach walks.
Island Hopping to Hidden Gems
Take a boat trip to Isla Iguana, just off the coast of Pedasí, for powder-white beaches, coral reefs, and snorkeling in calm, clear waters.
Or explore Isla Cañas, a lesser-known haven for turtle conservation and rustic ecotourism. These islands provide a peaceful contrast to the mainland and are perfect for day trips.
Wellness, Yoga & Spa Retreats
Panama’s Pacific beaches offer more than just surf — they’re havens for mind-body restoration. Beachfront eco-lodges in Cambutal, Venao, and Pedasí host daily yoga classes, holistic healing sessions, and wellness retreats in nature-rich surroundings.
Picture morning vinyasa with ocean breezes and evenings soaking in hot tubs under starry skies.
Horseback Riding & Coastal Hiking
Experience Panama’s wild coastlines the traditional way — on horseback. Ride along open beaches at sunset in Pedasí or Cambutal, guided by local ranchers.
Prefer to hike? Trails through surrounding hills and farmland offer panoramic ocean views and encounters with local wildlife. Don't miss these hiking Trails in Azuero.
Where to Stay
Playa Venao: Choose from beachfront hostels, boutique surf lodges, and luxury eco-resorts like Villa Marina Lodge or Selina Playa Venao.
Pedasí: Enjoy charming guesthouses like Casa Lajagua, close to town and local beaches.
Santa Catalina: Stay at Hotel Santa Catalina, Mama Inés, or Vista Coiba Lodge, all with direct access to the beach and boat tours.
Cambutal: Retreat to hidden escapes like Sansara Surf & Yoga Resort or Hotel Playa Cambutal, known for peaceful seclusion.
Farallón/Playa Blanca: Choose from larger resorts such as The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort or Grand Decameron Panama.
Where to Eat on Panama’s Pacific Coast
Panama’s Pacific beach towns may be small, but they serve up bold flavors and an evolving food scene worth exploring!
In Playa Venao, you’ll find oceanfront favorites like El Sitio and Coleos, casual tacos at Taco Flow, and artisan cocktails at Selina’s Playground. Pedasí offers cozy local eats like Smiley’s and fresh wood-fired pizza at Bohemia Pizzeria. Over in Santa Catalina, the food scene is catching buzz — don’t miss Sugar Mama’s Café for smoothie bowls and creative breakfasts, Los Pibes for Argentinian grills, or a post-dive bite at La Vieja Panadería. For something slower and more soulful, Cambutal delivers nourishing, wellness-inspired cuisine at places like Sansara and Boom Shiva, where meals are as refreshing as the sea breeze.
When to Visit the Pacific Coast
Panama’s Pacific beaches are welcoming year-round, but the experience shifts beautifully with the seasons.
The dry season (December to April) offers long sunny days, clear skies, and excellent conditions for surfing, swimming, and relaxing by the sea — ideal for travelers looking for guaranteed beach weather.
The green season (May to November) brings lush, vibrant landscapes, fewer crowds, and more powerful surf — a favorite time for surfers and nature lovers, especially in Santa Catalina and Cambutal.
For wildlife enthusiasts, July through October is peak whale watching season along the Azuero Coast, when humpback whales migrate just offshore.
If you visit between July and November, don’t miss the chance to witness turtle nesting at Isla Cañas, one of the largest nesting sites in the Pacific.
Insider Tips for Traveling to Panama's Pacific Coast
Bring cash — many beach towns have limited access to ATMs.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag for boat or surf tours.
Book surf lessons or Coiba tours in advance during high season.
Rent a 4x4 if you plan to explore Cambutal or off-the-beaten-path beaches.
Don’t rush — these beaches are best enjoyed slowly.