Santa Clara is one of the lesser-known beauties of Panama that is often overlooked by travelers to Panama. It is a small coastal town located in the Cocle province in Central Panama, on the side of the Pacific Ocean around 65 miles (100 km) from Panama City.
Santa Clara was the first settlement along the Costa Blanca (White Coast) and was a low scale town until a US military base was stationed there during World War II. After that, the town began to flourish. Several beach homes, vacation rentals, restaurants, and resorts have come up along the beach and it has begun to catch the eye of tourists.
Several tourists have declared that among all the beaches they have visited in Panama, Santa Clara was undoubtedly the best. This can be attributed to its serene white sands and soothing atmosphere.
Like most coastal regions in this area, you can expect mild showers during the afternoon, which are a blessing as they lift the heat. The green season is from June to December and this is the best time to visit.
Beaches
Santa Clara Beach is immensely beautiful with its pure white sand and crystal blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. The coastline is dotted with towering palms and the waters are very calm, which allows you to thoroughly enjoy swimming and splashing around.
When you visit the beach, bring your own cooler with drinks as the ones available on the beach are pretty expensive.
The beach is usually deserted during the week, but if you go on a weekend, you will find it crowded. This is because most of the locals come here for a quick break from a week of work. You will find yourself listening to loud music and dancing with these visitors as if the entire beach turned into a party. Not to worry, if you are looking to spend some peace-and-quiet time, you can walk away. The beach is very long and you can always find a quiet spot no matter what the day.
Fishing
Santa Clara is a fishing village. Only in recent times has it doubled up as a tourist spot as well. You can watch the local fishermen doing their job on the waters and watch them unload their catch. You can also try a hand at fishing, accompanied by the fishermen.
Activities
It doesn’t matter if you want an adventure or relaxation, Santa Clara has got you covered. You can find activities of all sorts to keep you occupied.
Water Sports - Kayaking, Snorkeling, And Jet Skiing
You might be scared of water, but just watching people having the time of their lives on the water, you will be tempted to join! Test your kayaking skills on these shallow and safe waters and if you want more fun, then jump on a jet ski!
Dry Sports: Golf, Beach Volleyball, And Tennis
If you are here on a weekend or a holiday, you are sure to witness crazy beach volleyball matches. You can just jump in and join them anytime! If you want to golf, you have to visit one of the resorts with a golf course.
Reaching There
You can take a short drive or hop on a bus from Panama City on the Interamericana.
Stay
If you are staying during the day alone, you can rent a beachside cabana that has a roof made of palm leaves and comes with tables, chairs, and hammocks. It usually costs around $10 USD for a day. There are also well-maintained facilities for toilets and showers for a small pay of 0.5 USD.
For overnight stays, you can choose an all-inclusive resort or villa, whichever suits your needs. It is best to book a villa if you are traveling as a large group. The only five-star stay in Panama, JW Marriott golf and beach resort is located here. You can find accommodation suitable for all budgets. Among the best are Le Meridien, Radisson, and Sheraton Bijao Beach Resort.
You can also abandon traditional room stays and rent a tent to pitch on the beach!
Food
Ever since the growth of the town, several eateries catering to an American audience have popped up. I have handpicked three of the best restaurants in Santa Clara, each offering different cuisine and will definitely satisfy your taste buds.
Xoko
Once a military pub, this place serves authentic Spanish cuisine. It has very distorted architecture with oddly shaped columns and a mustard exterior. Be sure to try their delicious clams, paella, and tapas. The restaurant is located on the Interamericana near the turnoff.
Delicias del Mar
This eatery is owned by the Chinese and serves fast food. Try their deep-fried shrimp and burgers without missing out on their patacones and pipa friya (fried plantains and cold coconut water). The setting is very picturesque and relaxing by the beach.
Restaurante Las Veraneras
Taste the best seafood in town at Restaurante Las Veraneras, which is a thatched hut-like setting with a beachfront. You’ll get amazing citrus-cured seafood, baby octopus, pasta and cocktails.
Nearby attractions
Panama Canal
A Panama Canal visit includes the Miraflores Locks. If you haven’t added this to your itinerary, then add it fast! You will have an overwhelming experience watching the massive vessels and life in the canal.
El Valle
El Valle attracts tourists mainly because it is an active volcano site. Thrilling! While you are here, you can go zip-lining for adventure or visit the botanical parks that boast of an impressive collection of tropical flora. If you are looking to spot wildlife as well, then visit the El Nispero Zoo where you can see the endangered golden frog.
What’s Nearby?
