Central America's Most Stunning Coastal Country Full Of Pristine Beaches Is An Affordable Tropical Getaway

Central America boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With Pacific and Caribbean surf, gorgeous weather, and clear blue water, it's easy to see why the region is so popular with travelers trying to top up their tan or hit the waves. This popularity has been driving up prices in some countries, however, leaving many searching for a seaside Shangri-La that doesn't break the bank. 

Thankfully, Panama, Central America's tropical paradise, boasts one of the lowest costs of living in the world, and is just as friendly on tourists' wallets as well. On top of a rich history and layered culture, it also has some of the best beaches in the region. Its thin, long geography means that you could even wake up on a Pacific beach and, with just an hour's drive, fall asleep on a Caribbean one.

Most visitors will likely fly into Panama City, and with direct flights from 19 U.S. cities, it's exceptionally convenient to do so. At the time of writing, round-trip flights from Miami are hovering between $300 and $400 all year. Flights from JFK are also in this region, though airfares, like everything else, will be more expensive in the high (and dry) season from December to April. Traveling from the West Coast is a touch more expensive, but it is still possible to find flights for around $300 if you can be flexible with your dates. Plus, you can always research the best ways to find cheap, last-minute flights this summer for even more savings. 

Panama is only a small country, so getting around is easy and affordable. Though you can fly between different destinations, use private vehicles, or rent a car, the public transport options are both convenient and budget-friendly. Buses are typically the cheapest and most common ways to get around the country, with routes to all of the most popular destinations. Sometimes, the final stop will even be adjacent to the beach you want to get to. For example, the bus from Panama City to the Pacific seaside town of Coronado will say it's going to San Carlos. If needed, there are plenty of staff in Panama City's major bus terminal, Albrook, as well as in the more rural stops who can help you figure it out. 

There are many different types of buses, with some overnight and luxury operators for long journeys (like if you're traveling from Panama City to David in the north, or the popular Bocas del Toro). These cost around $25 and can take up a full day of your itinerary. Local buses for shorter routes (like David to Boquete — an hour's drive) can cost as little as a dollar, with payment generally being taken on the bus before you reach your destination. There is alternative transport, like the Panama Canal Railway, between Panama City and Colon. However, the train is more of an excursion in and of itself rather than a cheap point-A-to-point-B option, with it only running on certain days and adult tickets costing $40 and children's costing $20.

Once you've gotten to grips with navigating the country, you can beach hop to your heart's content. The beaches of Bocas del Toro and San Blas, which sit along the Caribbean, are some of the most popular in the country — and, with their postcard scenery, it's not difficult to see why. Isla Grande also comes recommended on the Caribbean side: It's totally pedestrianized and has delicious dining options rooted in its Afro-Caribbean heritage. On the Pacific, past visitors have loved Santa Catalina for its relaxed atmosphere, and the beaches on the Gulf of Chiriquí boast amazing marine life. 

Also on the Pacific, around a two-hour drive from Panama City, is one beach town that's hailed to be particularly budget-friendly and ranks as one of the best cities to retire to in Central America: Coronado. It's a great spot for water sports and is generally uncrowded. While you'll find some wealthy residents and expats in the town, there are plenty of local areas serving up the fun and the food for a fraction of the price. It's amazing the kind of beauty and culture you can experience in Panama on such a low budget.