last edited Aug 20, 2020
Things to Do in Panama
Beaches and Beach Resorts
With nearly 2,500 km of coastline, Panama is well-endowed with beaches, the vast majority of which are completely deserted and lack any tourist infrastructure. Generally, the best opportunities—including a few beach resorts like Santa Catalina—can be found on the Islands of the Gulf of Chiriquí, San Blas, Bocas del Toro, Taboga, Pearl Islands, as well as on the western Pacific side of the mainland.
Water Activities
Diving
The best diving spots are in Bocas del Toro on the Atlantic side and in the Gulf of Chiriquí/Coiba, where several dive clubs are available. Elsewhere, there are also interesting diving or snorkeling opportunities in the San Blas Islands or Las Perlas, or even the Azuero Peninsula. Note that wreck diving is also possible on the Panama Canal.
Other Activities
Fishing: deep-sea fishing is practiced in various parts of the Pacific coastline, particularly in the Gulf of Chiriquí, which is highly renowned for it.
Water sports: the Azuero Peninsula and Santa Catalina are the country’s top surfing spots on the Pacific side. Sea kayaking is also possible along the Chiriquí coastline and its many islands.
Sailing:
Thalassotherapy and Wellness
Major hotel complexes (and even specialized clinics) generally offer a range of body treatments and wellness programs.
Hiking
Hiking
While opportunities are far fewer or less spectacular than in neighboring Costa Rica, Panama still offers some beautiful hikes, particularly in the Boquete region (Volcán Barú, La Amistad Park...), and to a lesser extent El Valle or even the Soberanía National Park (between Colón and Panama City), known for its birdwatching trails. The Darién and eastern parts of the country also offer options, though they are not always the safest, and it is essential to go with a guide.
Cycling
For a more athletic experience, the Boquete region offers great opportunities. For leisurely rides, islands like Taboga and especially Bocas del Toro are perfect.
Horseback Riding
The best opportunities are still around Boquete, in the mountains.
Outdoor and Nature Sports
Golf
The country has about a dozen golf courses.
Outdoor Activities
Whatever outdoor or nature sports you’re looking for, if they exist, you’ll find them around the village of Boquete and its mountains. In addition to hiking, you can also try rafting, canyoning, canopy and treetop adventure courses, kayaking, or even rock climbing.