Panama By the Sea: Diving, Snorkeling, Surfing and More

by Janeen Christoff
Last updated:: 9:00 PM ET, Thu May 4, 2023

Surfing in Panama (Photo Credit: AscentXmedia/iStock/Getty Images Plus)

Learning to surf on Panama's Pacific Coast. (Photo Credit: AscentXmedia/iStock/Getty Images Plus)

Surfer in Playa Venao (photo courtesy Tourism Panama)

Sea turtle swimming in Coiba, Panama (photo courtesy AndamanSE/iStock / Getty Images Plus)

Scuba diving in Coiba Marine Park (Photo Credit: Tourism Panama)

Man snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea off of Bocas del Toro, Panama. (photo via Damocean/iStock/Getty Images Plus)

Panoramic view of the beach of Boca del Drago Panama.

PHOTO: San Blas Islands, Panama. (photo via SimonDannhauer/iStock/Getty Images Plus)

Family on Panama's Pacific Riviera. (photo courtesy of Tourism Panama)

Surfing

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Panama is a world-class surfing destination with waves for every level. The country is home to year-round waves on both the Caribbean and Pacific sides of the country.

Surfing in Santa Catalina

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Santa Catalina has come a long way from quiet fishing village to world-renowned surfing hot spot. Experienced surfers can head to the black sand beaches of Playa Santa Catalina and also to Punta Brava. Playa Estero is ideal for beginners.

Playa Venao

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Scuba Diving

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Like surfing, there is a wealth of opportunity for scuba divers traveling to Panama.

Diving off Coiba Island

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Coiba National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, and its marine reserve in the Gulf of Chiriqui survived mostly untouched as it served as a penal colony and access was restricted. It's a world-class diving destination with access to Bahia Damas Reef, the largest reef on the western coastline of the American continent.

Bocas del Toro

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Here guests will find a relaxed, laidback vibe where the rainforest meets the sea. The region is home to Isla Bastimentos National Park, where visitors can explore marine life and there is the chance to schedule a scientific dive with the Smithsonian.

Picture-Perfect Beaches

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In the Bocas del Toro archipelago, travelers will find Playa Tortuga, a beach resort with the largest oceanfront pool in the area and the picture-perfect beaches of Boca del Drago.

San Blas Islands

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These off-the-beaten-path islands are stewarded by the native Guna people and are known for their well-protected natural beauty.The islands are remote, with no internet access or credit card payments. Travelers often sail from island to island, taking advantage of amazing snorkeling and fresh-caught seafood.

Panama's Pacific Riviera

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Travelers can also enjoy Panama's Pacific Riviera where they will find traditional sea-and-sand vacation options and resort-style accommodations.

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As the country connecting Central and South America, Panama also serves as a gateway between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Long famous for it's canal that binds the two waterways together, the country is also home to splendid beaches that offer something for all travelers, be it families looking for seaside resort stays or adventures-seekers opting for the pounding waves.

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