Photo: Larry Wilkinson
https://larrywilkinsonphotography.zenfolio.com/
Pedasi is a small town on the southeastern tip of the Azuero Peninsula on the Pacific coast of Panama. The area is known for world class surfing and sport fishing. This sector of Panama has also attracted a small community of expats from various parts of the world. A place where locals, tourists and foreigners live permanently.
People sit on their porches at night to receive visits from neighbors or friends. Chickens and dogs can be found walking freely through the streets, even horses. However, despite its rural, slow, relaxing and traditional atmosphere, Pedasi also surprises with the large amount of culinary offerings with Panamanian and international cuisine of all levels, from simple to gourmet.
Surfing in Pedasi
Before the hotel industry was developed along with gastronomy, Pedasi was already recognized for its world-class waves, Venao being one of the main places to practice “surfing”. Its waves are the admiration of thousands of tourists who enjoy this sport worldwide. However, the large number of beaches are also enjoyed for horseback riding, fishing, among others.
Isla Iguana, a Natural Refuge
Years ago, before people began to enjoy culinary delights in Pedasi, this wildlife refuge existed just 7 kilometers from the coast. It has two white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, surrounded by a 4,800-year-old coral reef and around 542 types of fish. The island has a wildlife trail that serves as an observatory for the largest colony of earwig or frigate birds in the Central Pacific Ocean.
You can also practice “snorkeling” and professional diving. Between the months of July and November you can see whales in the surroundings of the island and especially when you are on the way.
International Gastronomy
After enjoying the activities during the day in this natural paradise, Visitors are surprised by the gastronomy with the wide variety of delicious options.
Pedasi has a large number of Italian restaurants, serving specialty wood-fired pizza, homemade gnocchi and fettuccine, and tiramisu. Ceviche is a traditional Panamanian dish made from raw fish cured in citrus juices that can be found in many restaurants. Fish is also on the menu in most restaurants. Yellow fin tuna, Pacific sailfish, snapper, marlin and grouper are some of the fish caught in the area.
Traditionally, one of the most requested is the classic whole fried fish served with fried plantains. Other traditional foods requested are based on rice, corn, beans and coconut. As well as the always delicious “arroz con pollo” (rice with chicken), a common and traditional dish in Panama. Yuca fries were served in many restaurants.
If local cuisine is very popular, international cuisine has also been growing for years. The gourmet food restaurants, where the best of French cuisine and other countries are offered, are accompanied by fine pastries that raise the culinary offer to the level of many large cities. In Pedasi, diners can enjoy the delicacies of Spain and the Middle East, and much more, what they need is time to try them all.
Visitors are invited to discover why Pedasi continues to be one of the most beautiful and tourist-oriented destinations in the country.
