Coast to Coast

Panama’s coastline captivates with Pacific and Caribbean beaches, offering both wild beauty and serene escapes. Rugged rocky landscapes meet the crashing waves on one side, while crystalline waters and white sands invite calm on the other.

Words: MIRABEL OKPLA

Cradled by both the Pacific and the Caribbean, Panama’s coastline is a study in contrast, each side of the country revealing its own distinct allure. On the Pacific side, the beaches are wild and dramatic. Black volcanic sands meet powerful waves, the scent of saltwater carried on the ocean breeze. The vast, windswept shores are framed by a rugged coastline where land meets sea.

Meanwhile, on the Caribbean side, you’ll find a gentler rhythm. Soft white sands give way to calm, turquoise waters so clear you can see the vibrant coral reefs below. In this serene setting, the slower pace invites moments of pure, undisturbed tranquillity.

Panama remains a relatively under-the-radar destination, offering the kind of exclusivity that’s increasingly hard to find. Beaches are still refreshingly uncrowded, allowing you to soak up the country’s natural beauty. Combine two standout destinations, Islas Secas and Bocas del Toro, and the stage is set for an adventure that takes you from coast to coast.

Islas Secas, a private archipelago in the Pacific, offers a combination of seclusion and thrilling activities both beneath the surface and above the waves. Bocas del Toro, on the Caribbean side, captivates with its bohemian charm and breathtaking natural scenery.

Islas Secas: unplug, unwind and explore

Tucked away in the Gulf of Chiriquí on the Pacific coast, Islas Secas is a private archipelago made up of fourteen islands. Accessible only by private charter or boat, it feels like a hidden world.

Days here can be spent exploring one of the planet’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems. Islas Secas is nothing short of a diver’s paradise. The surrounding waters teem with life. As you slip beneath the surface, you’ll discover coral reefs alive with schools of fish, curious sea turtles and graceful rays gliding through the azure waters. Excursions are led by seasoned professionals who know these waters intimately.

After a day of exploration, beachfront yoga classes allow you to connect mind and body in this tranquil setting, while tailored spa treatments including soothing sound baths and rejuvenating facials.

Islas Secas is also committed to sustainability and ensuring a positive impact on the surroundings. The entire resort is powered by solar energy with a zerowaste-to-landfill policy.

Bocas del Toro: a slice of paradise

Bocas del Toro, an idyllic archipelago made up of nine main islands and countless islets, enchants with its laid-back charm, lush rainforests spilling onto powder-soft beaches.

A stay at Nayara Bocas del Toro, an exclusive retreat nestled among the islands, epitomises this sense of serenity. Perched above the crystalline waters, the resort’s overwater bungalows and treehouse-style rooms immerse you in nature from the moment you arrive. From this secluded oasis, the possibilities for adventure are as boundless as the horizon.

Step aboard a private boat and set out to explore the hidden wonders of the archipelago. One of the most intriguing excursions takes you to the caves of Bahía Honda. As you glide across the calm waters, the anticipation builds. Journeying onwards, you kayak into dark caverns, where sunlight dances off limestone formations, creating a mystical glow that illuminates the stalactites overhead.

Bocas del Toro’s vibrant rainforests offer an entirely different type of exploration, with guided hikes leading

you through dense greenery. Bird Island, a sanctuary for rare and exotic species, is a must-see for birdwatching enthusiasts. As you trek through the jungle, the calls of parrots and toucans echo above. With each step, you may spot flashes of bright plumage – perhaps a red-billed tropicbird soaring gracefully through the sky or a pair of toucans perched among the canopy. Adventure in Bocas del Toro isn’t limited to the great outdoors. Afro-Caribbean culture pulses through every corner of the archipelago. Curated dining experiences showcase bold, rich flavours: dishes that carry the essence of generations and culinary tradition steeped in the roots of the islands. You can also delve deeper into the region’s heritage with a tour of indigenous cacao farms, learning the art of chocolate-making and tasting some of Panama’s finest handcrafted chocolates.

The perfect pairing

For those seeking the ultimate blend of luxury and adventure, pairing Panama with Costa Rica offers a journey through two of Central America’s most stunning neighbours. Together, these two countries create a perfect balance of exploration and beachside bliss. Begin your adventure on the coast in Panama, then dive into Costa Rica’s verdant jungles.

Start planning → enquire@jacadatravel.com