Panama’s Expat-Friendly Beach Towns

When it comes to living in a tropical paradise, Panama is a top choice for expats. With its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and affordable cost of living, it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to make this Central American country their home. If you’re considering relocating to Panama, you might want to consider one of the many expat-friendly beach towns. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top options.

Bocas del Toro: A Laid-Back Caribbean Paradise

If you’re looking for a laid-back lifestyle on the Caribbean coast, Bocas del Toro should definitely be on your list. This archipelago consists of several islands, including the main island of Isla Colón. Here, you’ll find a mix of locals, expats, and tourists enjoying the turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and lush rainforests. The town of Bocas is the hub of the archipelago, and it’s a great place to find restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

Many expats choose to live on one of the smaller islands, such as Bastimentos or Carenero, where the pace of life is even slower. There are a variety of housing options available, from beachfront condos to jungle bungalows. While Bocas del Toro is a popular tourist destination, it still maintains a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for those who want to get away from it all.

Coronado: A Popular Beach Town for Expats and Locals

If you prefer the Pacific coast of Panama, Coronado is a great option. This beach town is located about an hour from Panama City, and it’s known for its large expat community. Coronado has all the amenities you could want, including supermarkets, restaurants, and medical facilities. There’s also a golf course and tennis club for those who like to stay active.

Coronado’s beach is wide and sandy, and it’s one of the most popular in the country. It’s a great place to swim, surf, or just relax in the sun. There are a variety of housing options available, from high-rise condos to single-family homes. While the cost of living in Coronado is higher than some other parts of Panama, it’s still affordable compared to many other countries.

Pedasi: A Charming Fishing Village with Beaches Galore

Pedasi is a small town located on the Azuero Peninsula, about 4 hours from Panama City. This charming fishing village has become popular with expats in recent years, thanks to its beautiful beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and affordable cost of living. Pedasi is also known for its traditional festivals and celebrations, which bring the community together throughout the year.

The beaches around Pedasi are some of the best in Panama, with crystal-clear waters and soft sand. There are a variety of options for water sports, including surfing, snorkeling, and fishing. The town itself has a few restaurants and bars, as well as a small grocery store. If you’re looking for a simple life in a beautiful setting, Pedasi might be the perfect choice.

Santa Catalina: A Surfer’s Haven with Stunning Scenery

Santa Catalina is a small town on the Pacific coast of Panama, known for its world-class surf break. Surfers from around the world come here to catch the waves, and there’s a thriving surf culture in the town. Despite its popularity with surfers, Santa Catalina is still a relatively quiet and peaceful place to live.

The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the Coiba National Park and the Cerro Hoya National Park. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring the nearby islands. While Santa Catalina is a small town, there are still a few restaurants and bars, as well as a grocery store and a small hotel. If you’re looking for an active lifestyle in a beautiful setting, Santa Catalina might be the perfect choice.

Puerto Armuelles: A Hidden Gem on Panama’s Western Coast

Puerto Armuelles is a small town located on Panama’s western coast, near the border with Costa Rica. This town is often overlooked by tourists and expats, but it’s a hidden gem that’s worth considering. Puerto Armuelles has a long history as a banana port, and there are still remnants of the old United Fruit Company buildings in the town.

The beach in Puerto Armuelles is long and wide, and it’s a great place to swim, surf, or just relax in the sun. There are a few restaurants and bars in the town, as well as a grocery store and a small hotel. Housing options are limited, but there are a few rental properties available. If you’re looking for a quiet and affordable place to live on the beach, Puerto Armuelles might be the perfect choice.

In conclusion, Panama is a great place for expats who are looking for a tropical paradise with a low cost of living. Whether you prefer the Caribbean or Pacific coast, there are plenty of expat-friendly beach towns to choose from. From the laid-back vibe of Bocas del Toro to the surf culture of Santa Catalina, there’s something for everyone in Panama.