Nayara Bocas del Toro best hotel on Isla Frangipani
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15 BEST HOTELS IN PANAMA: MY BUCKET LIST

Picture yourself waking up to the sound of gentle waves lapping against your overwater bungalow, or sipping coffee on a private balcony overlooking a lush rainforest canopy. Welcome to Panama, where your wildest hotel dreams come true! In this article, I’ll visit my 15 best hotels in Panama–my bucket list–that will transform your Panama vacation from ordinary to extraordinary. Get ready to indulge in luxury, immerse yourself in nature, and create memories that will last a lifetime!


Disclaimer: Some of the links in my content may be affiliate links. That means that if you purchase a product or service that I recommend, I get a small cut of the sale. These affiliates don’t cost you anything extra and help me keep the site going. I will never endorse anything fake or not worth considering. Thank you for your continued support.


W PANAMÁ

W Panama a best hotel for dreamy bath tubs
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W Panamá in the heart of Panama City’s financial district: the best in bathtub views.

I have had my eye on W Panamá for a long time now. For me, it’s all about the bathtub. It looks like such a treat! Located in the heart of the financial district, this hotel has everything you need and then some. With, panoramic views of the Pacific and mountains, an epic rooftop pool and onsite spa, it’s a great getaway right in the heart of city.


RED FROG BEACH ISLAND RESORT

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Red Frog Beach Island Resort, Isla Bastimentos, Bocas del Toro is best in family getaways.

This highly-acclaimed, all-inclusive resort on Isla Bastimentos has everything an active family needs: restaurants, beach access and a very accommodating staff just to name a few. Set where the rainforest meets the ocean, be as adventurous or as laid-back as you want. Trek through the jungle looking for monkeys and red poison-dart frogs or brave the waves on Red Frog Beach. Finally, you can’t go wrong with a soothing treatment at the spa and a delicious drink at the pool.

RED FROG BEACH ISLAND RESORT I BOOK NOW


HACIENDA LOS MOLINOS BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Hacienda Los Molinos Boutique Hotel is a best hotel for mountain views in Boquete
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Hacienda Los Molinos Boutique Hotel in Alto Boquete: the best in Volcán Barú views.

This sprawling property is set in the temperate highlands of Boquete with stunning views of Volcán Barú. With tastefully decorated, cozy rooms and delicious dining, Hacienda Los Molinos is the perfect base for heading out and exploring all that Boquete has to offer. The region is known for its coffee farms, hiking, and cloud forest adventures like zip-lining. The onsite spa is the perfect respite for your tired body after a long day of exploring.


LA CONCORDIA BOUTIQUE HOTEL

La Concordia is a best hotel for classical elegance
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La Concordia Boutique Hotel, Casco Viejo, Panama City: the best in classic elegance boutique style.

This family-owned, historic hotel is the culmination of a dream and a labor of love. The abandoned building underwent a major renovation to reemerge as the award-winning hotel that is La Concordia Boutique Hotel. It’s a best hotel for classic elegance. You might think you have traveled to Paris when you step into one of their refined suites. With high-quality bedding and eclectic touches, L’Occitane amenities, robes and complimentary sandals, the owners seem to have thought of everything to make your stay special.

LA CONCORDIA BOUTIQUE HOTEL I BOOK NOW


LOS ABETOS BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Los Abetos Boutique Hotel is a best hotel for natural touches in a tranquil setting
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Los Abetos Boutique Hotel in Boquete: the best in natural touches.

Los Abetos Boutique Hotel is a picturesque family-owned boutique hotel in Boquete. The spacious rooms are cozy with an earthy natural palette and large comfortable beds. Guests rave about the country setting, customer service and delicious restaurant on the premises. You’ll be charmed by the animals and birds that visit the gardens and impressed by the views of Volcán Barú.

LOS ABETOS BOUTIQUE HOTEL I BOOK NOW


HOTEL LA COMPAÑIA

La Compania is a best hotel for special touches
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La Compañia in Casco Viejo, Panama City: best in unique touches.

Hyatt’s premier luxury hotel in Panama City’s historic center is a stunner. Blending American, French and Spanish architectural styles, the spacious rooms are old-world and elegant at the same time. Each of the 88 rooms is individually decorated with vintage touches and unique artwork. Many rooms have private wrought iron balconies with sweeping views of Casco. In addition to offering the finest dining in five upscale restaurants, La Compañia offers a variety of experiences, among them are: “Wine Cellar Experience,” “Mixology Class” and “Coffee Tasting.” Hit the spa or rooftop pool to unwind from a long day of exploring all the nearby sites in Casco and beyond.


VILLA COCO

Villa Coco is a best hotel for its proximity to Isla Coiba
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Villa Coco, Santa Catalina near Isla Coiba: best for the surfing and diving set.

This small, luxury boutique hotel with nine gorgeous rooms scattered about the lush tropical gardens is a world away. Villa Coco has everything travelers need for a stay at one of the most beautiful coastal areas in Panamá: an eclectic restaurant, “Ai Mamita,” a relaxing infinity pool and attentive staff all just steps from the popular surfing beaches of Santa Catalina and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Isla Coiba.

VILLA COCO I BOOK NOW


AMERICAN TRADE HOTEL

The American Trade hotel is a best hotel for its turn of century feel
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American Trade Hotel in Casco Viejo, Panama City: best for creatives.

This stunning upscale boutique hotel is located in the heart of Panama’s historic, Casco Viejo. Built in 1917 and renovated in 2013, the hotel oozes old-world Latin American charm and modernity at once combining beautifully painted tiles, airy pastels and tropical hardwoods. This hotel isn’t just for stays, the hotel beckons creative spirits, often serving as a meeting point with a myriad of meeting spaces for special events such as weddings and workshops. Drop in at street level for a handcrafted cocktail or visit The Club for a night of jazz featuring local and international artists.

AMERICAN TRADE HOTEL I BOOK NOW


CARACORAL HOTEL BOUTIQUE AND SPA

Caracoral Hotel Boutique and Spa is a best hotel for its tranquil garden setting.
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Caracoral Hotel Boutique and Spa in El Valle de Antón: best for tranquil garden spaces.

Beautiful Caracoral Hotel Boutique and Spa in El Valle de Antón might be in the middle of town, but inside, it’s a world apart. Guests rave about breakfast set in the lush tropical gardens, the mineral water pool, leisurely bike rides and spa services at this one-of-a-kind locale. Whether you’re in town for birding or hiking, this spot is truly a nature lover’s paradise.

CARACORAL HOTEL BOUTIQUE AND SPA I BOOK NOW


AMARLA BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Amarla is a best hotel for its attention to detail and award-winning restaurant
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Amarla Boutique Hotel in historic Casco Viejo, Panama City: best for oasis vibes.

Exclusive Amarla Boutique Hotel is a gem in historic Casco Viejo, San Felipe. With just eight perfectly appointed rooms, this little slice of heaven exudes charm and sophistication at every turn. Blending airy whites with beautiful hardwoods, cascading tropical foliage and tropical tiles, Amarla becomes an oasis in the midst of the lively historic center. Not to be missed are the rooftop jacuzzi and the highly acclaimed restaurant, Kaandela. If boutique hotels are what you are looking for, Amarla is definitely one for your list.


THE GOLDEN FROG INN

The Golden Frog Inn is best hotel for its luxurious stylings in El Valle
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The Golden Frog Inn in El Valle de Antón: best for La India Dormida views.

For the traveler seeking a rustic, yet luxurious mountain getaway, The Golden Frog Inn in El Valle de Antón is exactly that. Set against the backdrop of an extinct volcano, the inn fits perfectly into its lush surroundings. Trekkers from near and far come to El Valle for its epic hiking, unspoiled nature and cooler climate. Known for its commitment to outstanding service, The Golden Frog Inn and its restaurant are a traveler favorite for those looking for a tranquil escape in one of Panamá’s most beautiful provinces.

THE GOLDEN FROG INN I BOOK NOW


LA CORALINA ISLAND HOUSE

La Coralina Island House is a best for its exotic styling and zen feel
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La Coralina Island House, Bluff Beach, Isla Colón, Bocas del Toro: best for attention to detail.

This breathtakingly exotic, luxury hotel situated near Bluff Beach in Bocas del Toro is in a word: ZEN. From candlelit walkways to intricate Balinese carvings, the painstaking details do not go unnoticed. Every room–from deluxe villa to rainforest view–is spacious and light with a private balcony to take in the natural surroundings. If you’re a water lover, spend your time learning to surf or taking a dip in the gorgeous infinity pool. If wellness is on your agenda, take one of the daily yoga classes or choose one of many multicultural massages on offer. After a stay at La Coralina Island House, you may not want to leave.

LA CORALINA ISLAND HOUSE I BOOK NOW


SOFITEL LEGENDS CASCO

Sofitel Legends Casco is a best for its extensive amenities.
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Sofitel Legends Casco in Casco Viejo, Panama City: best for extensive amenities.

Located in the heart of Casco Viejo, Sofitel Legends Casco, is the luxurious merging of “French elegance” and “Panama’s vibrant culture.” The decadent waterfront rooms overlooking the Pacific, elevated dining and holistic spa delight the most discerning traveler. With numerous dining options on the premises, from Ammi rooftop terrace to the sophisticated Arcano Rum Speakeasy, your satisfaction is their objective. Rejuvenate with a visit to the spa where they offer massage, and healing wraps. Sofitel Legends has thoughtfully crafted romantic getaways, spa and lunch packages and Sunday getaways. Visit for a afternoon or stay a while for the overall experience.

SOFITEL LEGENDS CASCO I BOOK NOW


LA LOMA JUNGLE LODGE AND CHOCOLATE FARM

La Loma is a best for its unique sustainable experience
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La Loma Lodge and Chocolate Farm, Isla Bastimentos, Bocas del Toro: best for getting back to nature and agritourism.

This uniquely, beautiful jungle lodge and chocolate farm perched on the highest point in Isla Bastimentos is a nature lover’s dream. The expansive property extends from the mangroves on the shore to the tropical forest above where rainforest creatures feed on the variety of fruits and flowers on the property. Nourish your mind, body and soul with delectable farm-to-table meals, yoga classes, meditation and massage. Experience the the tranquility of La Loma Jungle Lodge and Cacao Farm through a first hand look at sustainable farming practices on the cacao and permaculture tour. Getting back to nature is something transformative for your entire being.

LA LOMA JUNGLE LODGE AND CACO FARM I BOOK NOW


NAYARA BOCAS DEL TORO

Nayara Bocas del Toro is a best for its overall dreaminess
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Nayara Bocas del Toro, Isla Frangipani: best in overall dreaminess.

Recently named one of the Top 10 Resorts in Central America, Nayara Bocas del Toro is the stuff that dreams are made of. This Balinese-inspired property set on a private island is for adults only and is beyond perfect for the most romantic getaway. The rooms feature water windows for viewing marine life in the coral reef below, expertly carved teak wood, and “Javanese hand-hammered” copper tubs. Guests can kayak, paddle board or snorkel and return for a relaxing massage or a cup of locally-sourced organic coffee on their private deck over the water. The resort is committed to sustainable practices harvesting rainwater, restoring and growing the coral reef and providing transportation for their employees. Nayara is not just a beautiful beach hotel, it’s a presence in Bocas del Toro that strives to strike a balance between providing the ultimate travel experience and adding value to the community and environment.


From floating bungalows to historic mansions, Panama’s bucket list hotels offer an incredible array of experiences for every type of traveler. Your dream vacation awaits, so start planning now and prepare for an unforgettable journey through this tropical paradise. After all, life’s too short for ordinary hotels – it’s time to check these amazing properties off your bucket list!

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