Aguadulce, which means ‘freshwater’ or ‘sweet water’, is a small industrial town located in the Cocle Province of Panama. It is mostly an agricultural district that focuses on the cultivation of rice and sugarcane and is also a producer of salt.
In recent times, the shrimp industry has boomed. The harvest from here is transported throughout Panama and is also exported overseas. The sun is quite harsh here compared to other parts of Panama, as such, it is always hot so make sure you pack light clothes.
When you drive through the district, you will be impressed by the panoramic sights of vast agricultural lands, hills, rivers, and beaches. Aguadulce offers you the whole package. It is one of the lesser-known places in Panama, but if you are looking for a diverse and peaceful stay, it is one of the best options.
The moment you step onto the streets here, you will find a strange peace and quiet, which you have not experienced before. Most of the locals walk or use bicycles to get around, and as a result, you will be spared from the blaring of honks and smoke exhaust.
If you visit during the dry season, you can find mounds of salt that seem like crystalline snow heaps. You can also watch the process of salt production. As Aguadulce is a lesser-known destination, you can find everything here cheap and also enjoy the calmness of the town.
Salado Beach
Playa el Salado Beach is a beautiful spot located around 9 km from the center of Aguadulce. There, you can relax, sip a drink, and enjoy the sunrise or sunset. Unlike most of the powdery white sand beaches of Panama, the beach here is gravelly and fine shelled. However, it is not sharp or uncomfortable, and it is easier to walk on that regular beach sand.
Once you step onto the beach, you can see that the entire town of Aguadulce is nestled between mountains. The beach is extremely clean and well maintained. The shore is lined with kiosks that serve a wide range of food and drinks. You can go ahead and try seafood dishes as you will find them much cheaper here. There are lifeguards patrolling the waters and you can go for a dip if the waters are calm. A cycle path goes along the coast where you can have a scenic time cycling along the lines of palm trees and blue waters.
Wildlife
While most of Panama is home to tropical flora and fauna, in Aguadulce, you can find shore and marsh birds that draw the attention of international birdwatchers. You can spot species such as wood storks, roseate spoonbills, and black-necked stilts.
San Juan Bautista Church
The church is located near the main square called Plaza 19 de Octubre of the town. You can take a small stroll through Central Park and visit the church monument as well. It is a colonial church that reflects a fusion of styles, mostly Spanish. The original altar designed with frescoes has been replaced by an expensive red brick arrangement.
Museum of Salt and Sugar
Another attraction that you can find near the Plaza de 19 Octubre is the Museo Regionale Stella Sierra, or better known by its former name, El Museo de la Sal y el Azucar. Initially, the museum just housed a fine collection of Pre-Columbian relics, early tools used in the salt and sugar industry, and a variety of military artifacts relating to the Columbian Civil War. Recently, the museum was given its new name and now includes the works of a famous local poet, Stella Sierra on display. It also honors a former President of Panama, Rodolfo Chiari.
Ingenio Santa Rosa
Ingenio Santa Rosa is the oldest sugar mill in Panama that plays a pivotal role in production to date. You have to book an appointment twenty-four hours before your visit (Sunday holiday), to be arranged for a tour. You can have a close look at the processes involved in extracting sugar from sugarcane. The smell of molasses is in the air for miles around the mill. You will also be taken to the home of the Del Valle family, who were the original owners. There you can see nineteenth century furniture, early equipment, and photographs.
Festivals
Most festivals and special occasions involve parades throughout the town. Saint John’s parade is a religious procession that takes place during June. During Easter, plays are staged based on the Passion of Christ and activities continue till night. Apart from this, colorful day and night parades take place several times a year.
Getting there
You can get buses to Aguadulce from Panama City once every half hour. You will reach Aguadulce in less than three hours as it is just 190 km away from Panama City. The ride costs around $5 USD.
Stay
Hotel Interamericano
It is not a fancy stay, but you will be provided with all the basic amenities, like hot water, cable TV, and Wi-Fi. The hotel is famous for its huge swimming pool, which is a popular party place during weekends.
Hotel Carisabel
One of the nicest and cheapest stays in Aguadulce, it offers a swimming pool and Wi-Fi.
Hotel Sarita
The best option for staying if you are on a shoestring budget. You will have very basic amenities and no AC, just a fan.
Food
If you want to taste authentic local cuisine, take a walk around the Plaza de 19 Octubre, where you will find several cheap restaurants or ‘fondas’. As the temperature is quite hot, keep yourself hydrated. Here are some of the best places to check out.
Chefuis Restaurante
It is famous for its burgers, sushi, and beer.
Restaurante Los Faroles
It offers Panamanian cuisine and continental fast food.
Chefuis Restaurante
It is the best stop for seafood in town. You must try the fried shrimp, and the seafood broth. Traditional Panamanian dishes like yucca and fried plantains are also popular here.
Pannitos Café
It has a stylish and cozy interior and offers you a wide menu to choose from. It is air-conditioned as well, so extra points.
Nearby Attractions
- To the west of Aguadulce, lies Bahia de Parita, an area lined by mangrove forests and surrounded by swamps. You can also spot migratory waterfowl among the coastal wetlands of this region.
- El Valle: Situated 13 miles (20 km) away from Aguadulce, El Valle is a small village which is famous for its archaeological site. You can also visit the museum which displays artifacts that were unearthed at the site.
- Nata: Situated 7 miles (11 km) away, Nata is the oldest colonial town of Panama. You can visit the renowned church or simply admire the architecture and layout of the historic town.
What’s Nearby?
