Think you’ve seen everything Panama has to offer? Think again. While places like Panama City, the San Blas Islands, Bocas del Toro, and Boquete get most of the attention, there are plenty of hidden gems in Panama waiting to be explored. If you love venturing off the beaten path, like me, you’re in for a treat.

We lived in Panama for 2 years during our years serving in the Peace Corps and visited again in 2023. We have been able to see many stunning spots in Panama that most tourists don’t visit.

From jungle waterfalls and secret beaches to wild adventures you won’t find in a typical guidebook, these spots are perfect for your Panama bucket list. So, if you’re looking for unique things to do in Panama, beyond the usual tourist hotspots, let’s dive into the best places most travelers never hear about!

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10 Hidden Gems In Panama Not To Miss

Pedasi: A Tranquil Beach Town With Hidden Island Adventures

Pedasi is a charming beach town on Panama’s Pacific Coast that still flies under the radar compared to its more famous neighbor, Venao. Which honestly isn’t even that busy in comparison to other beaches in Panama.

While Venao is known for its surf scene, Pedasi offers a more laid-back vibe and some of the most beautiful, uncrowded beaches I’ve seen in Panama. When we visited, we practically had the beach to ourselves, something that’s getting harder to find these days!

One of the biggest draws near Pedasi is Isla Iguana, a protected wildlife refuge just a short boat ride away. This little island is home to white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and Panama’s largest colony of frigate birds.

It’s also an incredible spot for snorkeling, and if you visit between July and October, you might even spot humpback whales passing through. If you’re looking for hidden gems in Panama that combine pristine beaches, wildlife, and a relaxed atmosphere, Pedasi is a must-visit.

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Pearl Islands: Pristine Beaches And Snorkeling Near Panama City

The Pearl Islands is one of those places that feel like a hidden paradise, even though they’re surprisingly close to Panama City. Just a short ferry or flight away, this stunning island chain in the Pacific Ocean is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, without the crowds.

If you’re into adventurous things to do in Panama, this is the perfect spot for snorkeling, island hopping, and even whale watching if you visit between July and October. The water here is unbelievably clear, so expect to see tons of tropical fish, vibrant coral, and maybe even dolphins swimming alongside your boat.

Some tour operators take day trip to the Pearl Islands, but I would recommend staying the night. While most of the islands are untouched, Contadora Island has a few boutique hotels and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back beach location or an epic ocean adventure, the Pearl Islands Panama are worth adding to your list.

Boca Chica: Island Hopping In Panama Without The Crowds

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path Panama beach getaway, Boca Chica is the perfect spot. Tucked away on the Pacific coast in the Chiriquí province, this hidden gem is often overlooked in favor of more well-known destinations, but that’s exactly why it’s so special.

When my mother-in-law came to visit, we took her to Boca Chica, and she absolutely loved it. From here, you can hop on a boat and explore the stunning nearby islands, including Boca Brava, where you’ll find pristine beaches and lush jungle teeming with wildlife.

Whether you’re into snorkeling, kayaking, or just soaking up the sun, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this tropical paradise. Fishing is also a big deal here, with world-class, deep-sea fishing opportunities that attract anglers from all over.

Getting to Boca Chica is pretty easy, too. It’s just a short drive from David, the second-largest city in Panama, making it a convenient escape that still feels remote. If you’re craving a peaceful beach retreat with plenty of adventure, this spot should definitely be on your radar!

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Coiba Island: Marine Life Like No Other

If you’re craving an epic adventure in nature, Coiba National Park is the place to be. This World Heritage Site is often called the “Galápagos of Central America,” and for good reason. The marine life here is absolutely incredible!

Think massive manta rays, colorful coral reefs, and, if you’re lucky, even whale sharks gliding through the crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re into diving or snorkeling, exploring these waters feels like stepping into a whole new world.

Since Coiba is a protected island with no overnight stays, the best way to visit is by basing yourself in Santa Catalina. This laid-back surf town is the gateway to Coiba and a great spot to relax before or after your island adventure.

From here, you can hop on a boat and spend the day exploring the park’s untouched beaches, hiking through lush forests filled with unique wildlife, and, of course, experiencing some of the best marine life in Panama.

For those looking to escape the crowds and dive into nature (literally), Coiba is one of the ultimate hidden gems in Panama. If it’s not on your bucket list yet, it should be!

Isla Escudo de Veraguas: Our Little Secret Island

There are some places so special you almost don’t want to share them, and for us, Isla Escudo de Veraguas is one of them. Tucked away in the Caribbean, this remote island is pure magic with pristine beaches, untouched nature, and an air of mystery that makes it feel like a lost world. It’s not easy to get to, and honestly, that’s part of what keeps it so special.

Back when we were in the Peace Corps, we were lucky enough to meet someone who owns property on the island. He took us there a few times, and we even helped build a composting latrine during one of our visits. It’s one of those places that leaves a mark on you; breathtakingly beautiful, wild, and totally off the grid.

You might recognize Isla Escudo de Veraguas from Planet Earth 2, where it was featured for being home to one of the world’s rarest creatures—the three-toed pygmy sloth. This tiny, endangered species lives only on this island, making it a true off-the-beaten-path Panama gem for wildlife lovers.

Unfortunately, our friend Rogelio doesn’t do tours to Escudo de Veraguas. I have read a couple of blogs where people have contacted Jerry Moreno who organizes small custom tours. You can contact him on instagram @jerryfit or @travellingsoulspanama. I can’t vouch for him personally, but as there aren’t many tour agencies that visit the island, so it might be a good place to start looking.

I’d love to tell you to go, because it is totally worth it, but part of me wants to keep this one a secret. Please don’t tell too many people! 🤫

Portobelo: A Caribbean Town Full Of History & Culture

Just a couple of hours from Panama City, the small town of Portobelo is packed with history, culture, and natural beauty. Once a key Spanish trading port, it’s now a World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial ruins, vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, and stunning nearby beaches and islands.

One of the most fascinating things about Portobelo is the Black Christ, a revered religious statue housed in the town’s church. Thousands of pilgrims travel here every October for the Festival of the Black Christ, or Festival del Cristo Negro, which is a powerful display of faith and tradition. Even outside the festival, the town’s unique blend of Spanish and Afro-Caribbean influences makes it an amazing cultural experience.

Beyond its history and culture, Portobelo is also a fantastic base for exploring the Caribbean coastline. Take a boat trip to nearby islands, relax on secluded beaches, or snorkel in crystal-clear waters. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Panama, Portobelo is a destination that offers the perfect mix of adventure and heritage.

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Cerro Punta: A Cool Escape In Panama’s Highlands

During our Peace Corps years in Panama, we found ourselves returning to Cerro Punta again and again. Nestled in the Tierras Altas of Chiriquí, this charming mountain town offers a completely different side of Panama with cooler temperatures, rolling green hills, and a slower pace of life.

If you’re traveling from David, it’s a scenic drive up into the mountains, where you’ll find Panama’s best farmlands, fresh air, and some of the juiciest strawberries you’ll ever eat. Seriously, stopping at a roadside stand for fresh strawberries with whipped cream is a must.

Cerro Punta is also a gateway to La Amistad International Park, a national park filled with cloud forests, waterfalls, and incredible wildlife.

If you’re searching for hidden gems in Panama, this little town is a peaceful retreat where you can soak in nature, breathe in crisp mountain air, and enjoy a completely different side of the country.

Pro Tip: Stay at Los Quetzales Ecolodge & Spa. We always stayed here and it was a fantastic experience every time.

Santa Fe: Waterfalls Galore

Tucked away in the highlands of Veraguas, Santa Fe is the kind of place that makes you wonder why more people don’t visit. It’s refreshingly cool, surrounded by lush mountains, and filled with hidden waterfalls just waiting to be explored. If you love chasing waterfalls, this is the spot.

Santa Fe is also home to a national park, Parque Nacional Santa Fe, that covers over 72,000 hectares of pristine cloud forest. Whether you’re into hiking, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the untouched beauty of Panama, this is one of the best off-the-beaten-track destinations in the country.

Valle de Anton: A Mountain Escape Near Panama City

While El Valle de Antón (or Anton Valley) is a bit more popular than some of the other hidden gems in Panama, it still flies under the radar for many travelers.

Tucked inside an ancient volcanic crater and surrounded by lush mountains, this charming town is just a couple of hours near Panama City, making it an easy getaway from the hustle and bustle.

El Valle is known for its incredible biodiversity, especially its famous frogs, like the critically endangered Panamanian golden frog. Whether you’re hiking to waterfalls, exploring the local market, or soaking in the thermal hot springs, there’s plenty to do while enjoying the cooler mountain air.

Volcan: A High-Altitude Escape In Chiriqui

If you’re looking for adventurous things to do in Panama, the mountain town of Volcán should be high on your list—literally! Nestled in Chiriquí, this peaceful destination sits on the western slopes of Volcán Barú, Panama’s tallest mountain. While most visitors head to Boquete for hiking, Volcán offers a quieter, more local experience with equally stunning scenery.

Nature lovers will love exploring the nearby Amistad International Park, a UNESCO-listed national park shared with Costa Rica. It’s home to lush cloud forests, diverse wildlife, and some of the best hiking trails in Panama.

If you’re up for a challenge, hiking to the summit of Barú rewards you with a breathtaking view of both the Pacific and the Caribbean, on a clear day, at least!

One of Volcán’s most prized treasures is its coffee. This region, along with nearby Boquete, produces some of the world’s most sought-after beans, including Geisha coffee. Known for its delicate floral and fruity notes, Geisha from Panama consistently ranks among the best coffees globally.

Volcán’s high elevation and volcanic soil create the perfect conditions for growing this elite variety. You can visit local coffee farms to learn about the process, taste freshly brewed Geisha, and even bring some home as a souvenir. I would recommend a tour with The Janson Coffee Farm or Finca Ceriana Nature Reserve.

Whether you’re trekking through national parks, indulging in world-class coffee, bird-watching or simply enjoying the cool mountain air, Volcán is a hidden gem in Panama that adventurous travelers shouldn’t miss.