Slightly north of Playa Hermosa, at the entrance to the Papagayo Gulf, you'll arrive at Playa Panama, a popular destination for Costa Ricans. Nestled into the bay as it is, Panama is among the calmest beaches in the area, so like Bahia Pez Vela, it offers a tranquil place for swimming and lazing about in the sun.
Unlike Bahia Pez Vela, it is much less secluded. Playa Panama is part of the long-standing Gulf of Papagayo Project aimed at developing the gulf for tourism. Several large, all-inclusive resorts are in operation here. Some residential developments are underway as well. But there are no stores in Panama and only a couple of restaurants. And while one dive shop is based in this beach community, independent water sports operators do not make their home there.
Panama Beach's close proximity to Liberia's Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport facilitates access from abroad or elsewhere in Costa Rica. The road from Liberia to Panama is well-paved and allows seamless travel.
Playa Hermosa is about 5 minutes away by car where there are a couple of smaller grocery stores. Playas del Coco is about a 15 minute drive by car which is the main commercial centre for the Papagayo region.
Playa Panama is home to the Secrets Resort and El Mangroove Hotel, part of the Enjoy Hotel chain, a luxury boutique hotel that recently opened right on the beach in Playa Panama. You will also find near Playa Panama the developments of Vistas del Pacifico, Vista Estates and Costa Rican Estates.
Be sure to check out our section on Tourist Services for suggestions on accommodations, restaurants, tours & adventures, shopping, and professional services in the Papagayo Region.
Vistas del Pacifico Development
Resorts in Playa Panama
Restaurants in Playa Panama
Camping
