Panama, Center of the Americas

Discover Panama

A destination where luxury meets adventure

Panama is far more than its famous canal. This tropical country offers pristine Caribbean beaches, lush rainforests, a vibrant cultural scene, and one of the most dynamic economies in Latin America.

From the paradise islands of San Blas to the mountains of Boquete, from the imposing engineering marvel of the Panama Canal to the humpback whales of the Pacific, this small Central American country is a giant in unforgettable experiences. With Spongi, we invite you to discover the best of Panama from the comfort of our luxury properties on the Caribbean, the Pacific, and in Panama City.

Why Visit Panama?

Panama offers a unique combination of pristine beaches, lush nature, vibrant culture, and investment opportunities that make it the perfect destination.

Two-Ocean Beaches

Panama is the only country in the Americas where you can enjoy both the Caribbean and the Pacific. From turquoise coral reef waters on the Caribbean to spectacular sunsets and whale watching on the Pacific.

Vibrant Culture

From the colonial old quarter to the modern skyline of Panama City, the country offers a rich blend of history, cuisine, and nightlife.

Lush Nature

With over 30% of its territory under protection, Panama is home to extraordinary biodiversity, including tropical rainforests, untouched islands, and volcanoes.

Smart Investment

Panama offers tax incentives, the US dollar as its official currency, and a steadily growing real estate market.

Tropical Climate

Warm temperatures year-round between 25°C and 32°C. The dry season (December through April) is perfect for vacations.

Easy Access

The Hub of the Americas - Tocumen International Airport connects with direct flights from North America, Europe, and all of Latin America.

Playa Escondida - White sand beach on Panama's Caribbean coast
Exclusive Destination

Playa Escondida, Colón

Our exclusive paradise

Located on Panama's Caribbean coast, Playa Escondida is an exclusive residential and tourist development offering private beaches, 24-hour security, and access to the most crystalline waters of the Panamanian Caribbean. Just 2 hours from Panama City, it is the perfect escape from the urban bustle.

  • 2 km of private white sand beach and turquoise waters
  • Private marina with 4 docks and 24/7 security
  • Just 1 hour from Panama City by road
  • Beachfront villas, apartments, and overwater villas
View Properties at Playa Escondida

Explore Panama

From pristine Caribbean beaches to volcanic mountains, discover the country's most stunning destinations

Coclé
Pacific
2 places to explore

Coclé

Pacific beaches, resorts, and the crater valley

The province of Coclé offers a perfect mix of Pacific beaches, world-class resorts like Buenaventura, and the magical El Valle de Antón nestled in the crater of an extinct volcano. From Río Hato to Penonomé, Coclé is Panamanians' favorite weekend getaway destination.

Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort El Valle de Antón (volcanic crater) Pacific beaches in Río Hato Penonomé, historic capital
Veraguas
Pacific
3 places to explore

Veraguas

From Pacific to Caribbean: surf, jungle, and biodiversity

Veraguas is the only province in Panama with coastline on both oceans. It's home to Coiba National Park (UNESCO Heritage), the world-class waves of Santa Catalina, and the tranquility of Santiago de Veraguas with its lakeside restaurants.

Coiba National Park (UNESCO) World-class surf at Santa Catalina Santiago and its lakeside restaurants Only bi-oceanic province
Chiriquí
Highlands
1 place to explore

Chiriquí

Coffee highlands and the Barú volcano

Chiriquí is Panama's highland province, home to Volcán Barú (the country's highest point at 3,475m), Boquete's world-class coffee plantations, and spring-like weather year-round. It's the top destination for ecotourism, quetzal watching, and gourmet coffee.

Volcán Barú (3,475m) Specialty coffee in Boquete Quetzal watching Spring-like weather year-round
Panama City
City
7 places to explore

Panama City

Where modern meets colonial

Panama's capital is a vibrant metropolis where ultra-modern skyscrapers coexist with the charm of Casco Viejo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Panama Canal's Miraflores Locks, stroll the Amador Causeway, explore the Frank Gehry-designed Biomuseo, enjoy cuisine at rooftop bars, and discover a cosmopolitan nightlife.

Skyline & nightlife Panama Canal Frank Gehry Biomuseo World-class dining
San Blas Islands
Caribbean

San Blas Islands

365 islands of untouched paradise

The Guna Yala archipelago, known as San Blas, is one of the planet's most incredible natural wonders. 365 white-sand palm-fringed islands surrounded by impossibly turquoise waters, governed by the indigenous Guna people. No resorts, no crowds — just pure nature and a fascinating ancestral culture.

365 paradise islands Guna Yala culture Pristine snorkeling Day trip from our properties
Bocas del Toro
Caribbean

Bocas del Toro

The most bohemian and vibrant Caribbean

Tropical island archipelago in Panama's Caribbean with a bohemian vibe, spectacular beaches, overwater lodges, surfing, starfish diving, and lively nightlife. Isla Colón is the hub, but the beaches of Isla Bastimentos like Red Frog Beach and Playa Wizard are the most stunning.

Red Frog & Wizard beaches Surfing & snorkeling Overwater lodges Bohemian nightlife
Colón Province
Caribbean
3 places to explore

Colón Province

The gateway to Panama's Caribbean

Colón Province is the gateway to Panama's Caribbean, home to pristine coastlines, Spanish colonial forts declared UNESCO Heritage, vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, and the Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal. Here you'll find our beach properties at Playa Escondida, just one hour from Panama City but in a completely different world of tropical jungle, turquoise waters, and Caribbean rhythm.

UNESCO colonial forts Playa Escondida Resort Afro-Caribbean culture Atlantic Canal entrance
Pearl Islands
Pacific

Pearl Islands

Pacific tropical islands

Archipelago of over 200 islands in the Gulf of Panama, famous for Contadora and Isla del Rey. White-sand beaches, crystal-clear Pacific waters, humpback whale watching (July-October), shark diving, and a fascinating history of pirates and pearls dating to colonial times.

Contadora Island Humpback whales Diving & snorkeling Pirate & pearl history
Gamboa & Soberanía Park
Highlands

Gamboa & Soberanía Park

Rainforest 40 minutes from the capital

Gamboa is a small town on the banks of the Chagres River and Panama Canal, surrounded by Soberanía National Park. One of the world's top birdwatching destinations with Pipeline Road (over 400 species), Lake Gatún excursions, Emberá community visits, and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. Just 40 minutes from Panama City.

Pipeline Road: 400+ bird species Lake Gatún excursions Indigenous Emberá communities 40 min from Panama City
Taboga Island
Pacific

Taboga Island

The island of flowers steps from the capital

Known as the "Island of Flowers," Taboga is a tropical getaway just 30 minutes by ferry from the Amador Causeway. Quiet beaches, one of the oldest churches in the Western Hemisphere (1524), cobblestone streets with colorful houses, pelicans, and frigatebirds. Perfect for a beach day without leaving the city behind.

30 min ferry from Amador 1524 church (one of the oldest in the Americas) Quiet beaches and flower-lined trails Pelicans, frigatebirds, and seabirds

Things to Do in Panama

Unforgettable adventures and experiences near our properties

Snorkeling & Diving
2-4 hours

Snorkeling & Diving

Explore Panama's coral reefs and incredible marine life. From the Caribbean to Coiba on the Pacific, discover sea turtles, tropical fish, whale sharks...

Surfing in Panama
2-3 hours

Surfing in Panama

Panama's waves offer surfing for all levels. From the Caribbean to legendary Pacific breaks like Santa Catalina, enjoy lessons with local instructors ...

Kayaking & Paddleboarding
1-3 hours

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

Paddle along Panama's coastlines by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Explore mangroves, hidden coves, and observe marine life from above in calm, transp...

Deep Sea Fishing
4-8 hours

Deep Sea Fishing

Panama's waters offer exceptional fishing on both coasts. Catch marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi, and more in the Caribbean or Pacific with experienced local c...

Rainforest Hiking
3-5 hours

Rainforest Hiking

Venture into Panama's tropical rainforest trails. Discover hidden waterfalls, centuries-old trees, iguanas, howler monkeys, and an incredible diversit...

Birdwatching
3-6 hours

Birdwatching

Panama is home to over 1,000 bird species, more than all of North America. Spot toucans, macaws, hummingbirds, harpy eagles, and dozens of endemic spe...

Panama Canal Tour
Full day

Panama Canal Tour

Visit one of the modern engineering marvels. Watch massive ships pass through the Miraflores Locks, explore the interactive museum, and learn the fasc...

San Blas Islands
Full day

San Blas Islands

Day trip to the paradisiacal San Blas Islands, home of the indigenous Guna Yala people. 365 white-sand islands with palm trees, impossibly turquoise w...

Casco Viejo Walking Tour
3-4 hours

Casco Viejo Walking Tour

Walk the cobblestone streets of Panama City's old quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Colonial churches, historic plazas, rooftop bars, art galleri...

Panamanian Cooking Class
3-4 hours

Panamanian Cooking Class

Learn to prepare Panama's signature dishes with local chefs. From Caribbean ceviche to Panamanian sancocho, discover the flavors and secrets of our cu...

Zipline & Canopy Tour
2-3 hours

Zipline & Canopy Tour

Fly over the canopy of Panama's tropical rainforest. Feel the adrenaline while enjoying panoramic views of the jungle, ocean, and mountains from high ...

Whale Watching
4-6 hours

Whale Watching

From July to October, humpback whales migrate to Panama's warm waters to breed. A magical and unforgettable experience watching these giants of the se...

World-Class Golf
4-5 hours

World-Class Golf

Panama features golf courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus. The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort offers an 18-hole course surrounded by tropi...

Island Hopping — Pearl Islands
Full day

Island Hopping — Pearl Islands

Explore the Pearl Islands archipelago in Panama's Pacific. Over 200 islands with pristine beaches, crystal waters, humpback whale sighting (July-Octob...

Catamaran Sailing
4-6 hours

Catamaran Sailing

Sail Panama's Pacific or Caribbean waters on a luxury catamaran. Enjoy snacks, drinks, and spectacular views while stopping at deserted islands for sw...

Spa & Wellness
2-4 hours

Spa & Wellness

Relax with spa treatments inspired by Panamanian tropical ingredients: cacao, coffee, coconut, and exotic flowers. Oceanfront massages, sunrise yoga, ...

Boquete Coffee Tour
3-4 hours

Boquete Coffee Tour

Visit Boquete's coffee farms where the legendary Geisha coffee is produced, one of the world's most exclusive. Learn the bean-to-cup process, taste pr...

Emberá Village Visit
Full day

Emberá Village Visit

Navigate by dugout canoe up the Chagres River to an indigenous Emberá community in the rainforest. Learn about their ancestral traditions, dances, tag...

Beach Horseback Riding
2-3 hours

Beach Horseback Riding

Ride along Pacific beaches at sunset or through tropical forest trails. Available in Buenaventura and nearby areas, the experience combines nature, ad...

Sunset Yoga
1-1.5 hours

Sunset Yoga

Practice yoga with the sound of waves and the colors of a Panamanian sunset as your backdrop. Sessions for all levels at our beach properties, with ce...

Jet Ski Along the Pacific Coast
30 min - 1 hour

Jet Ski Along the Pacific Coast

Race across Pacific waters on a jet ski from Playa Blanca, with trips out to Isla Farallón where you can swim with tropical fish. Rides from 30 minute...

ATV Jungle Tour
3-4 hours

ATV Jungle Tour

Blast through tropical jungle on an ATV, crossing rivers, mud trails, and hidden paths to reach a secret waterfall with optional cliff jumping. A 3-4 ...

La India Dormida Hike
3-4 hours

La India Dormida Hike

Hike to the summit of La India Dormida in El Valle de Antón, a volcanic crater village. Discover pre-Columbian petroglyphs, hidden waterfalls, and stu...

Portobelo Colonial Forts
2-4 hours

Portobelo Colonial Forts

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage colonial forts in Portobelo: San Jerónimo, Santiago, and San Fernando. These fortifications guarded the gold and sil...

Isla Grande — Caribbean Paradise
Full day

Isla Grande — Caribbean Paradise

A car-free Caribbean island just 30 minutes by boat from La Guaira. White sand beaches, coral reef snorkeling, a hike to the historic lighthouse, and ...

Scuba Diving in Portobelo Bay
Half day

Scuba Diving in Portobelo Bay

Over 16 dive sites in Portobelo Bay including a sunken cargo ship and a WWII plane. Constant 80°F water, vibrant corals, sea turtles, and eagle rays. ...

World-Class Shopping
Full day

World-Class Shopping

Panama offers world-class shopping: Multiplaza with luxury brands, Albrook Mall with 700+ stores, and SOHO Mall featuring Prada, Chanel, and Louis Vui...

Soberanía Rainforest Aerial Tram
3-4 hours

Soberanía Rainforest Aerial Tram

Soar 280 feet above the rainforest canopy on the aerial tram in Soberanía National Park. Spot monkeys, sloths, and toucans from above, right next to t...

Afro-Caribbean Congo Culture
1-2 hours

Afro-Caribbean Congo Culture

Experience the Congo culture of Portobelo, a UNESCO Intangible Heritage. Traditional dances, drum music, and art workshops at the Casa Congo cultural ...

Panamanian Cuisine

Panamanian flavors that conquer the palate — from corvina ceviche to sweet raspao

Ceviche Panameño

Ceviche Panameño

Fresh corvina chunks marinated in lime juice with red onion, cilantro, chombo pepper, and a touch of hot sauce. Served with crispy patacones. The star appetizer of Panamanian cuisine.

Sancocho Panameño

Sancocho Panameño

Panama's national dish. A comforting stew of free-range hen slow-cooked with yam, culantro (not cilantro), oregano, and corn. Every family has their secret recipe passed down through generations.

Patacones

Patacones

Green plantain slices smashed and twice-fried until golden and crispy. Served as a side dish with almost everything in Panama, from ceviches to meats. The favorite snack of Panamanians!

Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo

Annatto-tinted rice cooked with shredded chicken, olives, capers, peppers, and a sofrito of onion and garlic. A comforting dish present at every Panamanian celebration.

Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja

Shredded beef slow-cooked in tomato sauce with onion, peppers, garlic, and Creole spices. Its name ("old clothes") comes from the appearance of the shredded meat. A Caribbean cuisine classic.

Carimañolas

Carimañolas

Yuca balls stuffed with seasoned ground beef, wrapped in a soft yuca dough and fried until golden. A traditional Panamanian snack perfect for breakfast or a midday treat.

Raspao

Raspao

Shaved ice drenched in natural tropical fruit syrups like tamarind, soursop, orange, and strawberry. Topped with condensed milk and a cherry. Panama's most popular street refreshment.

Ron Abuelo

Ron Abuelo

Panama's premium rum, distilled since 1908 in the Herrera region. From Ron Abuelo Añejo to the exclusive 30-year Centuria. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in a tropical cocktail at sunset.

Tropical Wildlife

Encounters with the most amazing nature of the American continent

Toucans

Toucans

The rainbow-billed toucan is one of Panama's most iconic birds. Its colorful beak of red, green, blue, and yellow makes it unmistakable in the tropical tree canopy.

Tropical rainforest
Sloths

Sloths

The adorable three-toed sloths are regular residents of Panama's forests. They spend most of the day sleeping while hanging from trees, moving with a calm that inspires relaxation.

Coastal forests
Sea Turtles

Sea Turtles

Panama's Caribbean beaches are nesting sites for hawksbill, green, and leatherback turtles. From March to September, you can witness the miracle of hatchlings making their way to the sea.

Caribbean beaches
Howler Monkeys

Howler Monkeys

Howler monkeys are the natural alarm of Panama's jungle. Their roar can be heard for miles. Often seen in family groups leaping between trees near our properties.

Jungle & coast

Plan Your Adventure

Suggested itineraries to make the most of your Panama visit

3days

Quick Getaway

Perfect for a long weekend

Day 1
Panama City

Casco Viejo, Panama Canal, dinner at a panoramic restaurant

Day 2
Playa Escondida

Beach relaxation, snorkeling, kayaking, sunset cocktails

Day 3
Portobelo & Return

UNESCO colonial fortress tour, diving, return

5days

Adventure Week

Caribbean, culture, and nature

Day 1
Panama City

Panama Canal, Biomuseo, Casco Viejo, nightlife

Day 2
Playa Escondida

Property check-in, private beach, snorkeling, cooking class

Day 3
Portobelo & Jungle

UNESCO fortresses, jungle hiking, wildlife spotting

Day 4
San Blas Islands

Full-day excursion, paradise islands, Guna Yala culture

Day 5
Relax & Return

Morning surf or kayak, deep-sea fishing, sunset return

7days

Complete Panama

The ultimate Panama experience

Day 1
Panama City

Arrival, Casco Viejo, Panama Canal, Amador Causeway

Day 2
Playa Escondida

Settle into luxury property, beach, reef snorkeling

Day 3
Portobelo & Adventure

Colonial fortresses, diving, tropical rainforest hiking

Day 4
San Blas Islands

Full day on paradise islands, indigenous Guna culture

Day 5
Buenaventura

Golf on Jack Nicklaus course, Corotú Spa, Pacific gourmet dinner

Day 6
El Valle de Antón

Hot springs, artisan market, crater hiking, zipline

Day 7
Return & Shopping

Biomuseo, Multiplaza or Albrook Mall, farewell dinner in Casco Viejo

Traveler's Guide

Essential tips to make your Panama trip perfect

Best Time to Visit

The dry season (December-April) is ideal with sunny days and minimal rain. The green season (May-November) offers lower prices, fewer tourists, and lush nature. Average temperature is 27°C (80°F) year-round.

Currency & Payments

Panama uses the US Dollar (USD) as official currency alongside the Balboa (1:1 parity). Credit cards accepted at most establishments. ATH ATMs available nationwide. 10% tips are customary at restaurants.

Getting Around

Air Panama domestic flights connect major cities (30-60 min). Uber works in Panama City. Car rentals available at Tocumen airport. For Playa Escondida, we recommend private transfer or rental car (1 hour via highway).

What to Pack

Light cotton clothing, swimwear, SPF 50+ sunscreen, insect repellent, water shoes for snorkeling, hat or cap, long-sleeve shirt for jungle excursions, and a light jacket for air-conditioned restaurants.

Safety

Panama is one of the safest countries in Central America. Tourist areas and resorts are very safe. Playa Escondida has 24/7 security and private access. As with any destination, use common sense and avoid isolated areas at night.

Health & Vaccines

No mandatory vaccines required for most travelers. Yellow fever recommended if coming from endemic areas. Tap water is drinkable in Panama City and urban areas. World-class hospitals in the capital (Hospital Punta Pacífica, Johns Hopkins affiliate).

Ready for your next adventure?

Book your luxury beachfront stay in Panama and create unforgettable memories.