This stretch of Panama’s coastline remains pleasantly under the radar, offering a quieter side of the country that many travellers overlook. Accessible from Panama City, but far enough to deter the crowds, this is a place for people who want to be barefoot all day. A place to chase waves, find hidden beaches, explore jungle-enshrined waterfalls and watch sunset after sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
BEACHES
Consistent year-round swells and delightfully uncrowded breaks make Cambutal a draw for surfers – both aspiring and accomplished. There’s a wave for everyone: from the powerful breaks of Playa 4x4 (named for the vehicle you need to reach it) to the gentler and more reliable Playa Cambutal. In between paddle-outs, rest on black sand beaches, where you’ll often find yogis practising their downward dog and locals preparing for fishing trips.
ADVENTURE
Don’t forget your hiking boots – Cambutal is the perfect entry point to pristine Cerro Hoya National Park, one of Panama’s least-visited and brimming with dense jungle, remote waterfalls and bird life. With the help of a good local guide, you can dive in for a few hours – or a few days. Escape the heat with mini-trips to rivers and natural pools. Or hop into a 4x4 to roam dirt tracks that lead to deserted beaches, local villages and sunset lookout points. You won’t find big, organised excursions, masses of hikers or ziplines here. Cambutal’s more about DIY adventure – and all the better for it.
NATURE
July to October is the time to spy mighty humpback whales as they migrate along Cambutal’s coastline. You might be lucky enough to see dolphins diving alongside your paddleboard, or spot sea turtles while boating. You’ll likely hear the howler monkeys of Cerro Hoya before you see them, while at the other end of the scale, sightings of the elusive jaguar or puma are rare – but their presence is testament to how untouched the ecosystem is in this part of Panama.
The Pacific is nothing if not dramatic. Bag a front row seat to nature’s entertainment without any need for a ticket as you watch thunderstorms roll in
