Salt and Pepper Sand and the Local’s Beach Scene

 Salt and Pepper Sand and the Local’s Beach Scene

After an hour and a half interesting drive - dodging giant potholes, watching for speed traps, and constant defensive maneuvering - we arrived in Coronado. We were curious about this community that has a large expat presence. The AirBnB we booked led us into a gated community. Julie’s Spanish skills failed to kick in and even though unsure of the questions we were asked or the answers we gave, we were allowed to enter. 

Beautiful villas lined the streets, all safely tucked behind fences and impressive gates. 


It’s best to forget everything you think you know about beaches based on the Mexico beach experience because things are different in Panama. In Mexico, mega resorts are located steps from the ocean, of which you catch a glimpse as you check in. In Coronado, lodging is located blocks from the beach. Beach Clubs allow access to the beach and after a 10 minute ride (in a people-mover) from our room to the Club, we found the ocean just in time for a downpour. Four guests scrambled to take our seats to return to the hotel, leaving these two dry land farmers to revel in the beachy rainstorm by themselves! 




If you want a vacation without crowds - this is your place! After the rain passed, Kirby and I walked the beach - alone. The gates to all of the other Beach Clubs were closed and no one else was around. Following are photos not only showing our solitude but also the clubs and towering condo buildings that line the beach. 



We were the only ones eating breakfast in the restaurant the next morning and the only ones back at the beach until around 11:00. Then beachcombers and sunbathers came to life and a fun family reunion group came on scene. Seven kids ranging from toddlers to teenagers provided lots of entertainment. The black and white sand is a little difficult to navigate and often kids and adults alike hot-footed it across the black sand up to the chairs and shade. More often than not, a few steps into the hot black sand led to cries of “Ouch!” and a quick retreat to find sandals before another attempt was made. 





Playa Coronado is very different from Playa Veracruz, the first beach we visited closer to Panama City. Veracruz does not have Clubs through which you gain access. Instead, you find a nice tree to park under and follow trails to the sand and water. 





The scenery is beautiful here but because it is close to Panama City, the water is not as clean as at Playa Coronado. While the ocean enticed us into several swims at Coronado, we were content to walk the beach at Veracruz, not interested in a swim even though it was plenty hot. 

The buildings shown in the next photo is a line of bars and restaurants most likely visited by locals. Fun music and the desire for refreshment led us ashore for one of the best piña coladas I’ve ever had. We were there on a Tuesday morning but I would be willing to bet Veracruz is a lively and happening place after 5 on a Friday night. We might have to go back. 😊





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