Visitors traveling to Chiriqui province normally head to the beautiful highlands of Boquete, Cerro Punta and Volcan. Beautiful natural landscapes where visitors can enjoy its cool weather, taste the world famous Geisha coffee and climb the highest volcano in the country. However, Chiriquí is not usually recognized for its beaches, although it has a jewel on the Pacific: Playa Las Lajas, a place that can only be described as impressive. The area around Playa Las Lajas is relatively underdeveloped in terms of tourism compared to other beaches on the Pacific coast. This ingredient adds a lot of charm to Las Lajas, since it feels as if you have entered a hidden paradise that few know about.
Accessible Paradise to Arrive
Playa Las Lajas is located on the southern region of Chiriquí Province. The most common way is by car from David, driving along the Pan-American Highway towards Panama City until you reach San Felix, here you turn right at the sign with palm trees that says “Las Lajas”. Then, you follow this road until you reach the beach. Upon arrival you will find parking at an affordable price.
14 Kilometers of Beautiful Sand
Panama has a lot to offer when it comes to beaches. But if you are looking for one without the hordes of tourists, then Las Lajas is the perfect place. From the beach you can see the Ensenada and Silva de Afuera islands. The shoreline is so long and straight that the sand and palm trees that line it seem to stretch out infinitely in any direction. The best part, the beach is so spacious that you never have to compete for space to put your towel, even if there were more people than usual that day. You perceive tranquility, you only feel the sound of the waves and palm trees swaying with the wind.
Activities
In addition to admiring the landscape, you can enjoy various activities:
Surf around Isla Silva de Afuera, especially if you want to have waves with almost no one around. Usually the owner of the island picks up the visitor in Las Lajas, to have a day full of and waves.
If you want to go on an adventure, Las Lajas “Beach Divers” offers diving for a day with instructors for beginners, an opportunity to watch stingrays, turtles and eels up close.
There are many options to eat around Playa Las Lajas. Brisas del Pacifico and Refugio Tropical Restaurant offer a selection of western menu options, as well as Panamanian tropical dishes, including some of the freshest fish that can be found. Cabañas Margaritas Restaurant offers exquisite international food and of course, delicious margaritas that can be enjoyed while contemplating the beautiful view of the ocean.
Where to Stay
Playa Las Lajas is usually a day trip, but there is nothing like waking up to the sound of the ocean. Therefore, if you want to spend the night in Las Lajas there are several options.
Johnny Fiestas is a great budget-friendly beach hostel. It has a restaurant, bar and karaoke.
Las Lajas Beach Resort offers beautiful views of the beach from its restaurant – bar or while enjoying the outdoor pool.
Show Pony Beach Resort and Suites is about 10 minutes from the beach, however they have a beautiful outdoor pool surrounded by cabanas, a poolside bar, and a water feature.
If you are looking for a unique beach destination, Playa Las Lajas should be included in the travel itinerary in Chiriqui.
