While everyone knows about the Panama Canal, Casco Viejo, or Bocas del Toro, there are so many places to visit in Panama that stay quietly tucked away, just waiting to be discovered.
One of the things we love most about living here is that even after years in Panama, we’re still discovering little gems tucked into the hills, beaches, and coastline. And some of the best places to visit in Panama are actually right here in our backyard, far from the big crowds.
These are some of our absolute favorite hidden spots — places we often recommend to our guests when they want to explore a little deeper.
A quick heads-up before you grab your backpack:
For most of these spots, you’ll need your own transportation.
Many of these spots have very little signage.
Some are best visited with a local guide (and we’re always happy to help you arrange one!).
La Poma Waterfall: A Hidden Jungle Oasis
La Poma Waterfall feels like a true secret. After a short 10–15 minute hike through the trees, you’ll reach a peaceful jungle pool with a small waterfall — perfect for a quick dip and to enjoy the calmness of nature.
There’s no entrance booth or signs here, which is part of its charm. This is one of those quiet places to visit in Panama where you can connect with nature, away from the crowds. And, it’s just 20 minutes from Istmo retreat!
Cerro Chame: A Hike With Breathtaking Coastal Views
About 30 minutes from Istmo sits Cerro Chame, one of our favorite hikes. It’s short but steep, and the view at the top is pure magic: coastal cliffs, jungle-covered mountains, and the sparkling Pacific stretching out below.
Bring good shoes, plenty of water, and your camera. If you’re looking for places to visit in Panama that offer both adventure and payoff, this is one of the best.
Santa Clara Beach: Easy, Family-Friendly Beach Day
Our beach here at Istmo (Playa Grande) is wonderfully secluded, but sometimes you want a little more activity. That’s when we head 20 minutes down the road to Santa Clara Beach. It’s one of the easiest and most relaxing places to visit in Panama for a family-friendly beach day.
Here you’ll find calm waters for swimming, wide open sand, and several casual beach restaurants where you can grab fresh seafood with your toes in the sand.
(We offer these trips by special request — just ask if you'd like to add this to your retreat package!)
Farrallon Island: Our Favorite Paddleboarding Adventure
If you have some paddleboarding experience, Farrallon Island is a hidden coastal gem we love taking guests to. After a 20-minute drive from Istmo, we launch our boards for a 30-minute paddle out to the island.
Glide past rock formations, spot birds nesting, and take in the wild, quiet beauty of Panama’s Pacific coastline. It’s peaceful, scenic, and if you want to experience nature from the water, you don’t want to miss this when visiting Panama.
Coko Blue: Fresh Seafood and Toes in the Sand
After a morning of adventure, this is where we go to refuel. Just 25 minutes from Istmo, Coko Blue is our go-to beachside seafood spot.
The fish is fresh, the ceviche is delicious, and the setting couldn’t be better — shaded tables just steps from the ocean. It's one of those simple, special places to visit in Panama that only locals tend to know about.
Why We Love Sharing These Hidden Places to Visit in Panama
One of the best things about Panama is that it rewards curiosity. Yes, the famous sites are worth seeing, but when you venture just a little farther, you discover places like these — quiet, beautiful, and full of that simple Panama magic that made us fall in love with this country in the first place.
If you’re staying with us at Istmo or joining a retreat, and want help organizing transportation or local guides, just ask — we’re always happy to share more local tips!
Need more inspiration? Check out our Panama City travel guide!
Ready to plan your Panama adventure?
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