17 Dec The Beaches Around Coronado
By Natalie Warner
For many of us, thinking of a beach can transport us to our happy place. When we think of the beach we may think of our own paradise: the warm sand, the refreshing feel of the water, the calming sound of the ocean, the warmth of the sun. Fortunately for those living and visiting around Playa Coronado, we can experience this on a regular basis.
Located just one hour away from Panama City, towns surrounding Coronado provide the closest beach access, when driving out of The City. It is not uncommon, especially on a week day to find yourself alone on the beach. Coronado is known as the “beaches area” because the area offers the first accessible beaches outside of Panama moving into the interior.
Punta Chame, known around the world for its kite surfing beaches. Although it is located 40 minutes off the highway, go to Punta Chame on a weekday and you are sure to find yourself on your own beach. Walk around in November or December and you may even catch a glimpse of a sea turtle.
Punta Chame/Nitro with Gisela Pulido. Courtesy of Dorothee Upchurch
Playa Malibú in Gorgona is a popular spot for the locals on the weekends, where you can find many bohios (cabañas) for rent. Like most beaches in the area, Playa Malibú is lined with black sand thanks to volcanic eruptions thousands of years ago. Located by the mouth of the Chame River, this beach can become a popular surfing destination. Playa Malibu has a local fisherman’s market and is accessible by foot from Playa Serena during low tide.
Playa Serena is a perfect place to escape for those living in Coronado and its surrounding areas. There are several entrances that extend along Coronado and Gorgona. Paddleboarders often take advantage of the calmer bay. Punta Prieta, located next to Playa Serena, is another popular spot for surfing. It offers long rides and can be enjoyed by beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Playa Serena. Courtesy of Bob Hislop
Punta Teta, located five minutes west of Coronado in Punta Barco, is hidden gem for more advanced surfers. There is parking on the beach, although it may not be advisable for people with two-wheel drive during the rainy seasons, May through November.
San Carlos, a small community and fishing village, has two beach access points. The first access is at the public beach club, near a fisherman market. Here you can often buy fresh pargo (snapper), corvina (sea bass), and prawns. The second access is tucked away by local residences. To access the ocean you must cross a river. Bohios are available to rent on either side of the river. Both beaches are popular spots for locals on the weekends and holidays.
El Palmar offers an ideal surf spot for beginners. This area is known for its surf schools and access to surf board rentals. This beach has several nearby hotels and restaurants which serve fresh seafood and local dishes.
El Palmar. Courtesy of Jackson Ball
Playa Blanca, located 40 minutes west of Coronado, is a popular spot for vacationers staying in the nearby resorts. Because of its popularity, this area has multiple restaurants offering fresh seafood cuisine. Playa Blanca also has multiple hotels nearby for visitors.
Ocean view of Bijao and surrounding beach. Courtesy of Dorothee Upchurch
Fallaron is another major attraction among Panamanians and visitors who want to get a little further away from Panama City. Similar to Playa Blanca, this beach offers an array of restaurants and hotels for visitors.
Coronado is within a short distance of many different beaches. Due to the variety of beaches and available beach activities, the ideal “happy place” for any beach lover is accessible when visiting Panama.