Shore Excursion Options When Cruising Through Panama

This is a collaborative post.

For many travellers, the joy of a cruise is to experience life on the open sea, relax and watch the waves go by, and revel in the freedom of luxury, comfort, and no responsibilities. Plenty of cruisers are content to sit by the pool, enjoy the entertainment, take advantage of the fine dining on board, and drink in the stunning coastal views and glorious sunsets.

But to only focus on life on board a ship is to miss half the fun, excitement, and interest of a cruise. Whether you are sailing around the Caribbean or enjoying a Pacific coastal cruise, exploring the countries and ports that you visit is an opportunity not to be missed.

The Central American country of Panama is a favourite for cruise itineraries but is often overlooked as a place to explore in more detail. This is a shame, as it is beautiful and vibrant, with a fascinating history and culture, and some of the best beaches in the world.

So whether you are on a fact-finding mission before you obtain a Panama Residency or just on a relaxing cruise vacation, here are some of the best things you can see on a shore excursion in Panama.

Swim on Red Frog Beach

Panama.Tropical Island Aerial View. Wild coastline lush exotic green jungle. Red Frog Beach in Bastimentos Island, Bocas del Toro, Central America, Panama.

Red Frog Beach is one of the most unique beaches in the world. Not just because of the thousands of tiny, bright-red frogs clustered on the edge of the sand that gives it its name, but also because of the way the jungle grows right up to the sand, giving the beach a wild, raw feeling that’s hard to find anywhere else. While the sea is usually warm and flat-calm, changeable winds and currents occasionally turn it into a superb surfing beach too!

Explore the Panama Canal

Probably Panama’s most famous attraction and the engineering marvel that really put this tiny country on the map, no shore excursion here would be complete without a tour of the Panama Canal. You can watch the canal in action from one of the many viewing points, get a more in-depth understanding of how it works and its importance at the Miraflores Visitor Center, or even explore by taking part in one of the stunning Panama Canal cruises on offer!

Surf Playa Venao

Long a mecca for surfers, the 2-mi-long pale-brown Playa Venao, in a deep, half-moon bay surrounded by largely deforested hills, has some of Panama's most consistent surf, and what could be the country's best beach break.

Panama’s beaches are some of the best and most beautiful on the planet, but it is also a world-famous surfing destination. If you love wave riding, heading to Playa Venao and taking on the breaks and barrels on this stunning beach is a must.

Have an adventure in Boquete

In the highlands away from the heat of Panama City, where coffee grows in plantations and the air is fresh, Boquete is an adventure-lovers dream. From rock-climbing to whitewater rafting, volcano hiking to ziplining, almost every adrenaline-fueled experience is catered for here. Just be sure to pack the right shoes!

Visit Casco Viejo

Of course, no shore excursion in Panama would be complete without exploring Panama City itself. While the city is buzzing and beautiful, the best place to spend most of your time is in Casco Viejo, the historic town centre. Dating all the way back to the 17th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with stunning historic buildings, beautiful colonial architecture in a state of picturesque decrepitude, and plenty of exquisite churches. There are also plenty of charming bars, restaurants, and cafes so that you can stay fed and watered throughout your exploration!

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