Pedasi, Venao & Cambutal
The province of Los Santos, located in the south of Panamá, is the cradle of folklore. In the end, towards the Pacific, there are two unique points: Pedasi and Tonosi. Here, you will enjoy natural beauties such as the migration of humpback whales from July to October. You can also visit Isla Iguana to dive over the oldest and largest coral reef in the Gulf of Panama and see many of the birds and iguanas that live there.
Natural Refuges
Other attractions in the area are the Isla Cañas Wildlife Refuge and La Marinera Reserve, where, between the months of July and November, thousands of sea turtles arrive at the nesting beaches at the same time. This is a fascinating phenomenon that only occurs on 14 beaches in the world, and two of them are in Tonosi. If you want even more adrenaline or to visit at another time of the year, you can always surf excellent waves, book fishing boat trips, kitesurf, paddle surf, or boogie boards.
Adventures in The Pacific
In both Pedasi and Tonosi, the beaches have thicker, golden sand. On Isla Iguana, however, you’ll find fine, white sand. Enjoy the more than 124 miles (200 km) of coastline and the extensive beaches of the region, such as El Arenal, Los Destiladeros, and Punta Mala. The waves and currents vary depending on the beach, for being on the Pacific Ocean, they all have tides. Take them into account when you plan your surfing adventures when you visit the beaches of Lagart Point, Top Secret, and Quatro-Once.
Tonosi is a little more than one hour by car from Pedasi, next to the province of Veraguas. In the town of Tonosi, you find all types of accommodations, restaurants, and even boat rentals. There you can book sea and land tours. When you go, don't miss Isla Caña and navigate through its three types of mangroves: white, red, and black. All this before enjoying a day at the beach.
If you want waves and a great atmosphere, visit Venao. This is a very lively and popular destination among both Panamanian and international surfers alike. It has all the amenities, including board rentals and classes. If, on the other hand, you are looking for surf and less hustle and bustle, stay in Cambutal. This is a more rustic and natural area, with fewer buildings, but also with excellent waves and a variety of accommodation options.
Getting There
Drive on the Pan-American Highway for approximately 3.5 hours to the Divisa turn-off. Cross to the left on the road that leads to Las Tablas for 1 more hour to reach Pedasi and two hours to reach Tonosi. You can also take a bus for about 5 hours and 20 minutes from the Gran Terminal de Albrook to Macaracas, Tonosi.
To reach the beaches, arrange transfers or tours with your hotel. From downtown Pedasi, you are less than 10 minutes from Arenal, the starting point to reach Isla Iguana Wildlife Refuge.
Santa Catalina is one of the most famous towns on the Pacific Coast of Veraguas. From there, you are just 4.5 hours from Pedasí by car.
Plan Your Trip to Pedasi, Venao & Cambutal
Frequently Asked Questions
Which are the main surf spots in the Pedasi and Tonosi region?
The main surf spots of the region are:
Venao Beach — a famous destination, known for its constant waves, a vibrant surf community, and the accessibility to rent surf boards and get surf classes.
Pacific Coast of the Azuero Peninsula and Cambutal — a destination with world class waves, and ideal for surfers who seek a more rustic and natural environment, specifically in the Tonosi district.
Are there any diving and snorkel spots in the region?
Yes, one of the top spots to do snorkeling and diving is the Natural Reserve of Iguana Island, at the Pedasi Pacific Coast. This area has the biggest and oldest coral reef of the Panamá Gulf, making it perfect for underwater encounters.
What is the humpback whale migration season, and which is the best month to watch them?
The humpback whale migration occurs between July and October. The best month for the sightings is September, along the Panamá Pacific Coast.
Where and when can I see sea turtles nesting in the region?
The nesting of the olive redley, green and hawksbill turtles occurs between July and November. The Main spots to witness this event are Isla Cañas Wildlife Refuge and the La Marinera Reserve in Tonosi, as well as the Pablo Barrios Wildlife Refuge in Pedasi.
Where can you go sport fishing, and which species can be caught in the region?
The Tuna Coast is the most popular spot for sport fishing. Species such as black marlin, yellowfin tuna and wahoo can be caught, depending on the season.
How can I get to Pedasi from Panama City?
By Air
Take a flight from Tocumen International Airport or Marcos A. Gelabert Airport (Albrook) to Pedasi Airport (Justiniano Montenegro). Direct flights usually operate three times a week and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes.
If there are no direct flights, you can fly to Chitre Airport and from there take a taxi or car for about 1 hour to Pedasi.
By Land
Car: Rent a car at Tocumen International Airport and drive directly to Pedasi, following the Pan-American Highway to Divisa, then towards Chitre, Las Tablas, and finally Pedasi (approximately 4.5 to 6.5 hours of travel).
Bus: Take a bus from the Albrook Grand Terminal to Chitre or Las Tablas (about 5 to 6 hours), and then transfer to another bus or taxi for approximately 1 hour to your destination in Pedasi.
What cultural traditions can be experienced in the area?
Los Santos province is known as the cradle of Panamanian folklore. It 's the perfect opportunity to experience firsthand the process of making the pollera and the sombrero pinta’o, both recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Share your experience
#VisitPanama
