Things To Do
in La Palma
La Palma, Panama is a tranquil coastal town that blends tropical charm with lush hinterlands. Nestled along the Pacific coast, it offers easy access to beaches, mangroves, and hills ideal for day hikes. The community is warm and welcoming, with small eateries serving fresh seafood and traditional Panamanian dishes.
Visitors come for relaxed beach days, nature experiences, and a taste of rural Panama away from the bustle of the city.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at La Palma, where you’ll be greeted by the warm tropical air and spectacular views. After settling in at your accommodation, take a leisurely stroll to familiarize yourself with the small fishing village. Enjoy a refreshing coconut drink from a local vendor to start your adventure.
Visit the nearby beaches and bask under the sun, or engage with friendly locals to learn about their culture and traditions. Explore the vibrant marketplace, picking up some handmade crafts and fresh produce. As the sun begins its descent, take a moment to appreciate the stunning coastal scenery.
Savor a delicious dinner at a seaside restaurant, trying traditional Panamanian dishes like sancocho or ceviche. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere as you hear local music playing in the background. Before heading back, take a leisurely walk along the beach, watching the moon reflect on the water.
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hike through the lush highland trails. Guided by a local expert, discover the breathtaking flora and fauna unique to La Palma. The cool mountain air and stunning vistas will invigorate your spirit.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, soaking in the serene environment. Explore nearby waterfalls or make your way to local tea plantations to learn about their production. Capture stunning photos as you immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings.
Return to La Palma and visit a local family for an authentic cooking experience. Help prepare traditional dishes, learning about their significance while enjoying lively conversations. End the evening by sharing your meal under a starlit sky, creating unforgettable memories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee or drink at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🧭Local souvenir | $5-25 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $50-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace, friendly locals
- Access to beaches and nature, affordable costs
- Rich culinary scene with fresh seafood
- Small-town charm and fewer crowds
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Less-developed infrastructure in some areas
- Fewer direct international flight options, longer travel times
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers in rural spots
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in La Palma
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour views over the Pacific with fishermen, boats, and colorful buildings.
A river crossing with lush banks and opportunities for silhouettes and reflections.
Coastal perspective with palm trees and sea cliffs, ideal for sunset shots.
Close-up portraits of vendors and fresh produce for vibrant street photography.
Food in La Palma
La Palma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken soup with corn, plantains, and root vegetables.
Must-Try!
Classic chicken and rice dish cooked with vegetables and herbs.
Fried yucca turnover stuffed with cheese or meat.
Fried plantain slices topped with cheese or meat.
Fresh fish cured in lime with onions, cilantro, and peppers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly stalls offer fresh fruit, seafood, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Grilled fish skewers, patacones, and tropical fruits straight from vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a cordial 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes'; shake hands with visitors and locals.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid loud behavior in public; ask before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in La Palma
Ensure a smooth experience
In full-service restaurants, leave 10–15%. Small tips for bar staff or street vendors are appreciated but not expected.
Cash (USD or Balboa) is widely accepted; many places accept credit/debit cards; some small vendors may be cash-only; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunny, low rainfall, and clear sea conditions; ideal for beach time, snorkeling, and outdoor hikes; evenings can be cool near the coast.
Afternoon showers are common; landscapes turn lush and waterfalls swell; some dirt roads may require caution after heavy rain.
La Palma at Night
Hiking in La Palma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with waterfalls and birdlife; moderate to challenging terrain depending on the route.
Short hikes to vantage points with sea views and sunsets.
Airports
How to reach La Palma by plane.
Located near Colón, offering domestic and some international flights; drive to La Palma takes a few hours with mountain roads.
Located near Howard; serves domestic and limited international routes; convenient for access to western Panama.
Panama City’s main international gateway; connection flights to most regions; from PTY, a longer overland or domestic flight to connect.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of mestizo, Afro-Panamanian, and Indigenous communities; family-oriented with strong community ties.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely loved by locals, with community leagues and school-level games.
Popular recreational and competitive sport across towns.
Coastal and river fishing is common, with local guides offering trips.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Palma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Stick to plantains, beans, rice, fresh fruit, and vegetables; ask for dishes without meat or fish; many places can adjust sauces.