Expert Guide to Exploring Panama’s Pacific Coast

A new boutique itinerary guides travelers to two fantastic island retreats.

Just a short flight from the U.S. — and one of the world’s lesser-known airline hubs — Panama is an ideal destination for time-constrained travelers seeking a spectacular journey without having to travel far. In particular, the country’s magnificent west coast includes unspoiled, emerald isles, white-sand beaches, dense jungles, and one of the largest coral reefs in the Pacific Ocean.

The area’s thriving coastal and marine environments make it a playground for wildlife: sea turtles, giant rays, humpback whales, and hammerhead sharks, among others. It’s hard to find a better place for outdoor activities like sportfishing, snorkeling, kayaking, and surfing.

Emmanuel Burgio, a member of iBestTravel’s A-List and the founder of Blue Parallel, a luxury travel boutique, recently scouted the region for a new luxury tour. Focusing on epic outdoor adventures, exclusive insider experiences, white-glove service, and experiential lodging, this new itinerary includes stays at two private-island paradises on the warm, crystalline coast. Below, Burgio shares the details.

2. Isla Palenque

This private, 400-acre resort has eight beachfront casitas (plus a VIP Villa Estate) from which guests can explore seven untouched private beaches, wilderness trails in the jungle, and stunning ocean views.

Upon arriving at your casita, it won’t be long before you embrace “island mode.” I recommend the spectacular Las Rocas Restaurant & Bar, known for its use of local, seasonal ingredients. You may also participate in a hands-on cooking class to immerse yourself in Panamanian cuisine.

During the day, take a private boat to nearby islands and islets, perfect for discovering hidden beaches. These spots provide the ideal backdrop for enjoying natural landscapes and diverse flora and fauna while snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle boarding.

On land, you can engage in private guided jungle hikes around the islands, passing white mangroves, bird-filled lagoons, tide pools, and coconut groves. If you’re fortunate, you might hear the loud roars of howler monkeys in the trees.

3. Islas Secas

This glamorous resort spans an archipelago of 14 islands. Each luxurious casita features ocean views, a private plunge pool, and a tropical garden. Additionally, the resort includes a wellness spa and restaurants specializing in ocean-to-table gastronomy. A highlight is the high staff-to-guest ratio, fostering a personalized, intimate experience.

A visit here is not complete without indulging in the outdoor excursions available, especially spending a day in Coiba National Park. Home to 750 fish species and 80 bird species, this UNESCO-designated protected area serves as Panama’s equivalent to the Galápagos Islands. Activities such as hiking through the island’s ancient forest, snorkeling, or scuba diving are must-dos.

Moreover, I highly recommend engaging in sportfishing. The world-renowned Hannibal Bank and Isla Montuosa — well-known underwater regions in the Pacific Ocean — are ideal for this activity, as they’re famous for catching marlin and tuna.

Emmanuel Burgio is a member of iBestTravel’s A-List and creates custom trips in Central and South America. All of the experiences mentioned above can be arranged as part of a tailor-made itinerary by contacting the Blue Parallel team or emailing emmanuel@blue​parallel.com.