Thinking about a family trip to Panama? Stop thinking. Do it! It's a perfect location for a family trip. It is close to the U.S. with direct flights from many major cities and uses the dollar as its currency, so it is especially easy. Here are some of the things you can do and some of the destinations you could travel to:
This is where we went in December, 2014 - January, 2015. It is a gorgeous group of islands in the Atlantic with accommodations ranging from backpacker inns to high-end resorts. It takes around 8-10 hours to drive there form Panama City. We took a domestic flight that leaves from the local airport in Panama City--very easy to get to.
Other Places to consider
- Isla Grande - Another nice beach on the Caribbean side that is also great for a day-trip. Less than 2 hours away.
- Zipline Adventures: About 1.5 hours away from Panama City there's a zipline adventure company where you can place yourselves in harnesses and zip through the rainforest!
- Contadora Island - Small island on the Pacific side with several really nice hotels. White beaches and very tranquil. You can take a 30 min flight there or take the boat from Panama City. The boat ride takes only 1 hour and 40 minutes so you can even go over the day.
- Taboga Island - an even smaller island than Contadora. Good for a day trip, I am told.
- San Blas Archipelago - a group of islands in the Caribbean managed completely by the native people of the Kuna Yala tribe. You fly (20 minutes) or go by car (4 hours) to a village on the coast. Then take a boat to one of the islands where you stay in a rustic bungalow. Rates usually include all meals and they will serve you what they catch that day. Fish, lobster, etc. It's simple fare but served in paradise.
Credits:
Lawrence Swiader, Zoe Leoudaki