About Panama

Think Panama and the Canal probably springs to mind — but this tropical beauty is so much more than a shipping shortcut. From colonial quarters buzzing with salsa beats to rainforest ecolodges and private-island hideaways, the best places to stay in Panama reflect the country’s astonishing variety. Whether you're into rooftop cocktails in Casco Viejo, beachy barefoot luxury or misty mountain retreats among coffee plantations, Panama rewards curious travellers looking for a Central America trip with real depth.

Some of our Panama collections:

Start in Panama City, where old and new rub shoulders in fascinating style. The Casco Viejo district, all crumbling facades and rooftop bars, is a hub for nightlife, food, and boutique shopping — ideal for those staying in the thick of it. Stylish jazz lounges and rooftop pools cater to travellers who like a social scene alongside their sightseeing. Nearby, the Canal is still a must-see, but so too are the lesser-known ruins of Panama la Vieja, sacked by pirates in the 17th century.

Beyond the capital, the Caribbean and Pacific coasts serve up radically different flavours. The Pacific side is great for surfing and diving — think whale sharks, island-hopping, and thatched-roof bungalows where the jungle meets the beach. Over on the Caribbean, things are more laid-back: snorkelling, hammock naps and family-style meals on remote, sandy shores.

If wellness is your focus, the Pacific coast also hides yoga-centric surf retreats with oceanfront shalas and detox-friendly menus. Meanwhile, Boquete in the highlands is your go-to for cooler air, coffee farm visits, birdwatching and cloud forest hikes. It’s also where you’ll spot Panama’s most iconic bird, the resplendent quetzal.

Nature lovers should venture to the country’s national parks — from Portobelo’s wild beaches to the peaks of Volcán Barú. Some stays even offer private villas and rainforest access just steps from your door. So whether you're into spa days, cultural strolls or off-grid adventure, your perfect Panamanian stay is out there — and we’ve done the legwork.

The Best Places to Stay in Panama

Panama City

  • With its rooftop bar, art-filled interiors and buzzing energy, Tantalo Hotel is ideal for sociable travellers who want to party and explore. Located in Casco Viejo, it’s surrounded by nightlife and has one of the best city views in town.
  • Boutique and beautifully styled, Amarla Casco Viejo is tucked down a quiet street near the buzz of central Casco. Ideal for couples or solo travellers, the décor blends colonial touches with lush tropical accents.
  • The upmarket American Trade Hotel, located in the historic centre, offers smart well-lit rooms with antiques and parquet flooring. Boasting a rooftop pool as well as a jazz lounge, this is a great base from which to explore all the city's hotspots.
  • Las Clementinas, located in the UNESCO area of the city, offers huge suites with high ceilings, antique furnishings and colourful modern artwork. Come back after a day out sightseeing to relax on the rooftop terrace with a good book.
  • Finally, the ultra-modern Global Hotel Panama, in the commercial hub of the city, has sleek accommodation featuring floor to ceiling windows and wonderful views. Once again, there's the obligatory rooftop pool for your pleasure, and two excellent restaurants.

Panamas's Beach and Island Life

  • Further up the Pacific coast towards Costa Rica you come to The Resort at Isla Palenque, which offers an untouched tropical island experience in the Gulf of Chiriqui. Hide away in luxury bungalows under a thatched roof, with tropical vegetation just outside your front door. It's a great base for island hopping and dive excusrions.
  • For the ultimate Robinson Crusoe experience, cross to the Caribbean coast due north, and check into one of Al Natural Resort's glorious bungalows on a secluded beach on the south side of Bastimentos Island. These simple rooms are made from entirely natural materials. Dine 'family style' on superb fresh and healthy cuisine, and spend days exploring land and sea. Beach perfection.

Panamas's Natural Treasures

  • If you're here to see the famous green, yellow and red Quetzal bird, one of the best places to visit in Panama is Boquete - also the country's coffee capital - and the place to stay here is the pretty Finca Lerida, set right in the middle of a coffee plantation. This boutique finca offers chic rooms with light hues and wooden interiors. Enjoy stunning seasonal cuisine at their restaurant, made using only the best of local produce. It's the ultimate relaxing stay in a beautiful location.
  • Finally, if you are a group or family you might like to consider an exclusive rental of El Otro Lado Private Retreat. It's set in the sublime Portobelo National Park and offers a unique mixture of Caribbean nature and culture. A swimming pool, room service and bar are included. It's a short walk to white sands, and it's a great base for excursions into the rainforest and national park, or the colonial town of Portobello.

Wellness Stays

  • Set on a quiet stretch of coast, Sansara Resort is a stylish surf and yoga retreat with a focus on wellness and community. Guests come for daily classes, nourishing food and the Pacific views from bed.

Romantic Stays

  • With just a handful of design-led villas suspended over the sea, Nayara Bocas del Toro is an adults-only escape that oozes romance. Kayak through mangroves by day, sip champagne on your deck by night.
  • Rooftop cocktails, plush interiors and period charm make La Concordia perfect for a city break for two. Walk the cobbled streets of Casco by day and enjoy candlelit dinners back at the hotel.
  • With antique furniture, leafy terraces and sea-facing windows, Villa Caprichosa is an elegant bolthole on peaceful Taboga Island. Couples love the privacy, charm and dramatic sunsets.

Family Stays

  • With interconnecting bungalows, a kids’ pool and plenty of space to roam, Bocas del Mar is ideal for families wanting an easy, scenic escape. The restaurant is child-friendly and the vibe is relaxed.
  • Island adventures await at Islas Secas Resort, where marine safaris and multi-room villas make it easy to travel as a group. Children love the wildlife, and grown-ups appreciate the service and style.
  • With a kids’ club, babysitters and even a children’s pool, The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort has families covered. Parents can hit the spa or golf course while little ones stay entertained.

Luxury Escapes

  • Five-star luxury meets colonial beauty at Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, where old-world charm is paired with fine dining and slick service. Rooms are elegant, the pool has sea views, and history is all around.

For an apartment or villa

  • If you'd prefer the flexibility of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • The best time to visit Panama is between January and mid-April, which is the driest part of the year in this tropical country. For heavy rain, the months to avoid are May, October and November.
  • Most major cities have their own airports. The main airport is in Panama City - the Albrook "Marcos A. Gelabert" International Airport.
  • If you fancy exploring independently then consider hiring a car from Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

Weather

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.

The best hotels in Panama City

View all

Global Hotel Panama

Panama City (Obarrio)

In the heart of the ultra-modern and prestigious commercial sector of Panama City. Floor to ceiling windows offer unrivalled views of the cityscape. Rooms are pristine and smart, suitable for leisure and business stays alike, and the roof top pool is the icing on the cake. A sleek, cool, city stay.

  • Views - Breath-taking views of the cityscape from all over the hotel
  • City Style
  • Restaurant - Two dining options offering both relaxed and formal dining.
  • Sights nearby - Panama City's Old Town is ony a ten minute walk
from $120 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Tantalo Hotel

Panama City (San Felipe)

Eat drink and be merry at this well-equipped hotel with fantastic tapas restaurant and an impressive rooftop bar. Party on.

  • Bicycles available - Free bikes available for guests' use.
  • Bar - great rooftop bar, terrific cocktails
  • Restaurant - delicious tapas at Tantalo Kitchen
  • Lively area
from $129 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Bastimentos

View all

Al Natural Resort

Bastimentos

Live like Robinson Crusoe in these glorious natural bungalows on a secluded stretch of beach. Simple rooms, made from entirely natural materials, give you everything you need but no more. Dine 'family style' on superb fresh and healthy cuisine and spend days exploring land and sea. Beach perfection.

  • Beach Life - Stay in natural bungalows right on a secluded white sandy beach.
  • Diving - The hotel offers diving and PADi certifications.
  • Full of character
  • Seaside
from $240 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Boca Chica

View all

Bocas del Mar

Boca Chica (Boca Chica,)

A stunning coastal property with gorgeous sea views. Contemporary styled rooms are all white on white with dark minimalist furniture and pops of green coming from the furnishings. A poolside restaurant serves up gourmet food (specialising in seafood). The perfect spot to completely unwind.

  • Beach Life - Find epic sea views, plenty of water activities on offer and a secluded private beach to lounge on.
  • Sailing - Hire a boat and spend a day island hopping.
  • Romantic
  • Views
from $139 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Boquete

View all

Finca Lerida

Boquete (Los Naranjos)

Finca Lerida is set on a coffee plantation near Boquete. This boutique spot offers chic rooms with light hues and wooden interiors. Enjoy stunning seasonal cuisine at their restaurant, made using only the best of local produce. A quiet and relaxing stay, in a top location.

  • Country Escape - Whether on a romantic break or a family holiday, indulge yourself at this serene rural location
  • Active Holiday - There are plenty of outdoor activities on offer to help you make the most of your surroundings
  • Great walks - Head off on long hikes up the mountains and take in the stunning views
  • Birdwatching - Finca Lerida is the ideal location for a spot of birdwatching!
from $150 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Taboga

View all

Villa Caprichosa

Taboga (Taboga)

A traditional property set within lush gardens. Secluded suites boast gorgeous sea views, floor to ceiling windows and antique furniture. The best suite features a private pool. Just a five minute walk from the beach this is the ideal spot to revel in utter tranquility.

  • Beach nearby - A tranquil villa just five minutes from stunning beaches.
  • Sights nearby - Make a trip to Crusoe's Cave and imagine the life of the great castaway.
  • Great walks - Wander along lush trails and spot endless varieties of flowers.
  • Full of character
from $120 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Bocas del Toro

View all

Nayara Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro

This tropical retreat in Bocas del Toro blends Balinese-inspired decor with the laid-back Caribbean vibe. Think handcrafted wood accents and private plunge pools, perfect for unwinding. Enjoy fresh seafood, sip cocktails by the overwater pool, or explore local reefs. A luxury island paradise.

  • Wildlife Area - Explore the lush rainforests of Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, home to diverse wildlife including sloths and red frogs
  • Surfing - Experience the thrill of surfing on the renowned waves of Red Frog Beach, a haven for both beginners and seasoned surfers
  • Snorkelling - Dive into the vibrant underwater world of Bocas del Toro with a guided snorkelling tour, exploring colourful coral reefs
  • Other Activities - Take a private boat excursion to the Zapatilla Islands, where pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters await
from $1300 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Los Santos Province

View all

Sansara Resort

Los Santos Province (Los Santos Province)

A laid-back luxurious wellness retreat, on Panama’s unspoilt Azuero Peninsula. Earthy tones, handcrafted woodwork, and minimalist design set a tranquil scene. Find your flow in the thatched yoga shala, savour farm-fresh cuisine, or unwind by the saltwater pool. Pure escapism, perfectly balanced.

  • Cycling - Hop on a bicycle and explore the rugged beauty of Panama’s southern coast, discovering hidden beaches and lush jungle landscapes
  • Total relaxation - Unwind with ocean-view yoga, holistic spa treatments, and nourishing farm-fresh cuisine in a tranquil, community-focused retreat
  • Surfing - Ride the waves with expert instructors who’ll have you carving Cambutal’s pristine surf breaks in no time - novice or pro
  • Beach Life - Escape to a secluded stretch of the Pacific coast, where surf-ready waves, beachside cabanas, and saltwater serenity await
from $363 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees