18 Best Places to Visit in Panama You Can’t Miss
Let me tell you about a place that totally caught me off guard — Panama. Known for the famous Panama Canal, this Central American gem is way more than just a shipping shortcut.
From dreamy Caribbean islands and lush rainforests to colorful colonial towns and sleek skyscrapers, Panama is one of the most exciting and diverse countries I’ve visited. Whether you’re a beach bum, a history nerd, a hiking enthusiast, or a city explorer, there’s something here for you.
I loved how easy it was to travel around, how welcoming the locals were, and how untouched many of the natural spots felt. So, if you’re looking for your next big adventure, here are the 18 best places to visit in Panama that absolutely belong on your itinerary.
1. Panama City
Let’s start with the capital — Panama City — a buzzing blend of old and new. I loved how you could walk through cobblestone streets in Casco Viejo in the morning and be surrounded by skyscrapers by afternoon.
Casco Viejo is the historic district, full of pastel buildings, rooftop bars, and vibrant street art. Then there’s the modern financial district, with luxury hotels, malls, and skyline views that remind you of Miami.
Don’t miss the Amador Causeway for sunset views and biking, or the Biomuseo for an artistic take on Panama’s biodiversity. Panama City is also your gateway to the Canal — but more on that next.
2. Panama Canal
One of the modern world’s greatest engineering marvels, the Panama Canal is something you just have to see with your own eyes. I visited the Miraflores Visitor Center and watched huge ships being lifted and lowered through the locks — it’s oddly mesmerizing!
The visitor center has observation decks, a short film, and interactive exhibits about how the canal works and why it matters. You can also visit the newer Agua Clara Locks near Colón, which are even bigger. It’s a bucket-list spot for anyone who loves history, engineering, or simply seeing how the world is connected through trade.
3. Bocas del Toro
For Caribbean vibes and laid-back days, Bocas del Toro is pure magic. This archipelago near the Costa Rica border has crystal-clear water, overwater bungalows, and a youthful, backpacker-friendly vibe.
I stayed on Isla Colón, the main island, and explored nearby beaches like Red Frog Beach and Starfish Beach. You can take water taxis to other islands or go snorkeling with dolphins.
The nightlife is lively, with reggae bars and beach bonfires, and there’s great food too — lots of seafood and plantains. It’s affordable, dreamy, and full of friendly people who love the slow island life.
4. Boquete
If you love cool mountain air, waterfalls, and coffee, head to Boquete. This small town in the highlands of western Panama is a nature lover’s paradise.
I hiked the famous Pipeline Trail and saw a resplendent quetzal (bucket-list bird moment!), and visited a local coffee farm to learn how some of the world’s best beans are grown.
Boquete is also a base for climbing Volcán Barú, Panama’s highest peak — and if you summit before sunrise, you can see both the Pacific and Caribbean at once. Whether you’re ziplining through the canopy or soaking in hot springs, Boquete is peaceful and magical.
5. San Blas Islands
The San Blas Islands, or Guna Yala, are paradise — like literally, think tiny white-sand islands with palm trees and turquoise water. These islands are owned and protected by the Guna people, and visiting them feels like stepping into a simpler, untouched world.
Most of the accommodations are rustic (think huts and hammocks), but that’s part of the charm. I spent days island-hopping by boat, snorkeling with colorful fish, and watching the stars from the beach.
The Guna communities are welcoming, and your visit helps support their traditions and economy. It’s one of the most authentic and beautiful experiences in Panama.
6. Santa Catalina
If surfing is your thing — or if you’ve ever wanted to try — Santa Catalina is the place to go. This chill beach town on the Pacific coast has become a surfer’s haven, thanks to its consistent waves and laid-back vibe.
Even if you don’t surf, the beaches here are beautiful and quiet. I loved Playa Estero for its beginner-friendly waves and black sand. Santa Catalina is also the gateway to Coiba National Park (more on that soon), so it’s perfect for divers too.
The town itself is small, with a few hostels, cafés, and surf shops, but that’s what makes it feel like a true escape.
7. Coiba National Park
This marine park is Panama’s version of the Galápagos — and it blew my mind. Coiba National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of dozens of islands, coral reefs, and diverse wildlife.
I took a diving trip here from Santa Catalina and saw sea turtles, sharks, rays, and huge schools of fish. Even snorkeling is amazing if you’re not into diving.
Coiba Island itself used to be a prison, and now it’s a wild, protected area with jungle trails and unique species. It’s not the easiest place to reach, but if you’re into nature and marine life, it’s worth every minute.
8. El Valle de Antón
Tucked inside a volcanic crater, El Valle de Antón feels like a secret garden. It’s about 2.5 hours from Panama City and totally worth the drive. The air is cooler here, and the town is surrounded by lush mountains, waterfalls, and hot springs.
I visited the famous Sunday market, hiked “La India Dormida” for sunrise, and soaked in thermal pools surrounded by greenery. There are butterfly gardens, a zoo, and even ziplining if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s a great spot for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to unwind. Plus, everything here feels green and alive.
9. Pedasí
Pedasí is a charming beach town on the Azuero Peninsula, and it’s perfect if you’re craving sand and sea without the crowds. The town is full of colonial-style houses and friendly locals, and the nearby beaches like Playa Venao and Playa Arenal are great for surfing or just chilling.
I loved the peaceful vibe and how easy it was to meet other travelers. Pedasí is also close to Isla Iguana, a beautiful nature reserve with white sand beaches and coral reefs. It’s low-key, beautiful, and still feels off-the-beaten-path — which is exactly why I loved it.
10. Portobelo
If you’re into pirate history, you’ll love Portobelo. This small coastal town on the Caribbean side was once a key Spanish port — and you can still see the ruins of the old fortresses that protected it from pirate attacks.
There’s a sleepy charm here, with colonial buildings, ocean views, and Afro-Caribbean culture. The Church of the Black Christ is an important pilgrimage site and adds a spiritual element to the visit.
You can take boat rides to nearby beaches or dive among old shipwrecks. It’s a quiet but powerful place, perfect for travelers who love history with a side of beauty.
11. Isla Taboga
Just 30 minutes by ferry from Panama City, Isla Taboga is a sunny escape from the urban buzz. Known as the “Island of Flowers,” it has colorful houses, beach cafés, and relaxing seaside views.
I loved how easy it was to explore the whole island on foot, hike up to viewpoints, and cool off in the gentle waves. It’s a great day trip for anyone staying in the capital and looking for some beach time. There are cute guesthouses too, if you want to stay overnight. It’s laid-back, pretty, and super accessible.
12. Darién National Park
For the truly adventurous, Darién National Park is a wild and untamed corner of Panama. Bordering Colombia, this UNESCO-listed rainforest is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.
You’ll need a guide to explore safely, and it’s definitely not for the casual tourist — but wow, is it worth it. I saw rare birds, howler monkeys, and even met indigenous Emberá communities who live deep in the jungle.
The Darién Gap is infamous among overlanders, but the park itself offers guided treks and cultural immersion that are incredibly meaningful. It’s raw, remote, and unforgettable.
13. Gulf of Chiriquí
This lesser-known coastal region is a hidden paradise for beach lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The Gulf of Chiriquí includes stunning islands, coral reefs, and marine reserves.
I went island-hopping and saw dolphins, snorkeled with turtles, and relaxed on empty beaches that looked like something out of a travel magazine. Isla Bolaños and Isla Parida were my personal favorites.
The town of Boca Chica is the main launch point, and it has cozy lodges with insane ocean views. It’s perfect for couples or solo travelers looking for nature and calm.
14. Volcán Barú
If you’re up for a challenge, try hiking to the top of Volcán Barú — Panama’s tallest mountain at over 11,000 feet.
The hike is tough (most people start around midnight to reach the summit for sunrise), but the reward is epic: on a clear day, you can see both the Pacific and Caribbean Oceans.
I did it with a guide, and it was one of the most intense but rewarding experiences of my trip. You can also take a 4×4 if hiking isn’t your thing. Either way, the views and the sense of accomplishment are next-level.
15. Isla Contadora
Part of the Pearl Islands in the Gulf of Panama, Isla Contadora was once a playground for the rich and famous. Now, it’s a peaceful retreat with white-sand beaches, calm water, and boutique hotels.
I took a ferry from Panama City and spent a few days swimming, snorkeling, and just soaking in the beauty. The island is small enough to explore by golf cart, and there are plenty of quiet spots to relax.
It’s not as wild as Bocas or San Blas, but it’s perfect if you want upscale island vibes without going too far from the capital.
16. Las Lajas Beach
Las Lajas is one of the longest beaches in Panama — and somehow, it’s still super quiet. Located on the Pacific coast in Chiriquí Province, it stretches for miles and miles, with soft sand and mellow waves.
I stayed in a simple beach cabana, watched pelicans dive for fish, and barely saw another soul. It’s a great place to truly unwind. The sunsets here are golden and magical, and the tide goes out so far you can walk for ages. Bring a good book, some snacks, and enjoy the peace.
17. Albrook Mall
Need a little city break or retail therapy? Albrook Mall in Panama City is one of the largest shopping centers in Latin America. It’s massive — I mean, I got lost more than once — but it’s perfect for a rainy day or picking up essentials.
There are tons of stores, food courts, a cinema, and even a bowling alley. Bonus: it’s connected to the bus terminal and metro station, so it’s easy to get to. If you’re traveling long-term and need clothes, tech, or just a food court smoothie, this place has it all.
18. Cinta Costera
Wrap up your Panama City stay with a walk or bike ride along the Cinta Costera — a scenic waterfront boulevard that offers amazing views of the skyline and ocean. It’s popular with locals, especially at sunrise and sunset.
There are parks, skate ramps, outdoor gyms, and bike rentals. I loved walking here with a coffee in hand, watching the city wake up.
It connects neighborhoods and offers a safe, beautiful space to move, breathe, and reflect. For digital nomads or slow travelers like me, it’s the perfect way to start or end your day.
Final Thoughts
Panama is full of surprises — modern cities, remote islands, mountain villages, and lush jungles all in one beautiful country. What amazed me most was how easy it was to move between beach, forest, and city — and how warm and welcoming the people were.
If you’re craving a travel experience that’s rich in nature, history, and culture (and still affordable!), Panama is calling.
