13 Fun Things To Do In Playa Venao, Panama 2024
Nestled on Panama’s Pacific coast is the small bay of Playa Venao. It’s a hidden gem for beach lovers and a superb spot for surfing enthusiasts. Beach time aside, there are a ton of other fun things to do in Play Venao too, like watching turtles hatch and hiking to waterfalls!
Jack and I visited this coastal escape while we were backpacking Panama and I can honestly say, it’s a haven for those looking to escape the crowds, learn to surf and enjoy unspoiled stretches of beach.
It’s an off-the-beaten-path destination where the jungle meets the ocean and where the sunsets are breathtaking. Discover the charm of Playa Venao with these fun activities that will make you want to stay forever!
The Ultimate Guide To The Best Things To Do In Playa Venao, Panama
In this post, I’m covering all the amazing things to do in Panama’s Playa Venao. I’ll also cover topics including:
- The best places to stay in Playa Venao to suit all budgets
- How to get to Playa Venao and the best time to visit
- A selection of superb places to eat
- And, everyday travel tips for visiting Venao!
👉 ❤️ 🚐 Heading To Playa Venao Soon? The best way to get to Playa Venao is by shuttle. You can use My Pink Bus to get from Panama City to Playa Venao for only $60.00!!
13 Fun Things To Do In Playa Venao
Playa Venao is a fantastic place to visit but there are more things to do here than just surfing. Find out what we think are the best reasons for visiting this little corner of Panama!
Are you planning a trip soon? Use my links below to book!
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Tours/experiences – I recommend Get Your Guide
Car rental – I recommend DiscoverCars
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1. Save The Turtles 🐢
Tortugas Playa Venao, a community-based organisation, takes centre stage as one of the most rewarding things to do in Playa Venao. Their mission? To champion the conservation of marine turtles through innovative community programs, outreach efforts, and the incredible dedication of local and international volunteers.
Nestled on the sandy shores of Playa Venao, this turtle haven buzzes with activity, especially during turtle nesting season, typically spanning from May to October. During this time, you can embark on a thrilling nighttime turtle walk, guided by a friendly local expert.
Their efforts extend to conservation initiatives like nest relocation, nursery management, vigilant beach patrols, and engaging educational outreach. Plus, if you want to get involved, they offer fantastic sea turtle volunteer programs. It’s an adventure for a cause that you won’t want to miss!
2. Morning Beach Walks (& Coffee) ☕
Start your day with a splash of coastal serenity and a dash of caffeine!
Morning beach walks, accompanied by the soothing sound of the waves, are the perfect way to kickstart your day. And, since Panama is renowned for its coffee why not stop for one on the way?
There are plenty of coffee shops in Playa Venao to choose from. For the ultimate morning relaxation, Micaela Venao offers a beautiful oceanfront terrace. If you’re in need of a java jolt, check out Rico’s Coffee, where you can try tasty Panamanian brews; they also have good Wi-Fi!
Looking for the best coffee in Playa Venao? Many would agree that it can be found at Almendro Cafe, nestled within the Selina River Hostel. And, for those looking for budget-friendly artisanal delights, don’t miss PanAr, a local bakery serving up freshly baked goods made with heaps of love.
Cheers to morning beach walks and coffee that adds a kick to your day!
3. Surfing (Of Course) 🏄♀️
After your morning coffee buzz, it’s time to hit the waves!
Playa Venao’s beach is an absolute stunner, cocooned by lush rainforests and teeming with authentic charm, all without the hustle and bustle of crowds. The surf scene is year-round, thanks to its prime location along the Pacific Coast.
For those of you seeking bigger swells and a wild ride, the wet season from May to October is for you. But if you’re after pristine, glassy waves in a more beginner-friendly setting, the dry season from November to April is your golden opportunity.
While catching waves, you might just have baby manta rays leaping out of the water beside you – we sure did – it’s a surreal experience that adds to the bay’s perfection and unbeatable atmosphere!
Where To Rent Boards?
Since surfing is practically a way of life in Playa Venao you’ll find plenty of places to rent boards. Surf shops like Surf Dojo and Shokogi Surf Shop are two great options ready to hook you up with board rentals and lessons.
Where To Stay When Surfing?
Speaking of the right place to crash after those epic sessions, top-notch surf hotels like Selina Playa Venao, Beach Break Hotel & Surf Camp de Playa Venao, Villa #5 Blue Venao, and Villa Marina Lodge & Condos are all about keeping you as close as possible to the Break.
If you’re a surfing newbie looking to dive into the scene, Playa Venao’s got your back with surf camps like Beach Break Surf Camp and Surf Dojo.
4. Isla Iguana Beach Trip 🏝️
The Isla Iguana beach trip is an absolute must for anyone exploring Playa Venao! This wildlife reserve is a true gem made up of a small island, Isla Iguana, sitting about 8 kilometres from Pedasi and an hour from Playa Venao.
Once a U.S. bombing range, this island has undergone a magical transformation into a protected wildlife refuge. The island has the wow factor with white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a bustling community of hermit crabs, green and black iguanas, red-throated frigates, boas and even sea turtles.
It’s the perfect place for a day of snorkelling and sun-soaked beach lounging since Isla Iguana boasts one of the Gulf of Panama’s largest coral reefs.
If you time your visit right (April to September), you might witness sea turtles laying their eggs, or (June to November) catch humpback whales frolicking nearby!
There are two ways to make this island getaway happen – join a guided tour for expert insights or embark independently for your own island adventure.
Planning Your Trip To Isla Iguana – Independently
First, you’ll have to head over to Playa Arenal in Pedasi. Don’t forget your passport, as you’ll need it to set sail. At the port simply talk to the fishermen who will provide a boat ride over to Isla Iguana.
The boat price is whatever the captain quotes, and you’re paying per boat, not per person (just remember, bargaining is a must, and there’s a max of 7 persons per boat). Once you reach the island, you should let the local rangers know you’ve arrived as well but there’s no charge to visit.
There are a couple of beaches to visit. El Cirial is your go-to spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkelling in calm waters. But if you’re up for a bit of adventure, El Faro Beach is semi-secluded and beautifully rocky.
Pro Tip: Keep in mind, at low tide, El Cirial Beach becomes nearly dry, which can limit snorkelling and boat access. So, you’ll need to time your journey right to make the most of your visit.
Planning Your Trip To Isla Iguana – Organised Tour
This tour is your golden ticket to a fantastic day on the island, complete with everything you need. It’s arranged through a tour company called Panama Heavens which has dedicated guides and staff to arrange a fun trip filled with adventure and learning.
Typically the tour lasts for 5-6 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the magic of the island. They’ve got you covered with snorkelling gear, beach essentials like sun tents and mats, and a stash of refreshments including water, sodas, sparkling water, and a delicious lunch of snacks, sandwiches, and fresh fruit.
And the cherry on top? Private transportation makes the journey as smooth as possible. It’s a hassle-free way of exploring Isla Igunana. Book your tour today!
7. Whale Watching 🐋
From June to October, Playa Venao becomes the ultimate stage for the annual humpback whale migration. This is a great activity to be part of while visiting Playa Venao and something that you absolutely can’t miss.
Humpback whales are most common but you might also catch a glimpse of blue whales, fin whales, pilot whales, and even beaked whales!
So, if you’re in town during this exciting season, make a beeline to Selina Hotel and book your whale-watching tour.
6. Waterfall Hike
While we didn’t quite make it to the waterfall ourselves, there’s a charming one not far from Playa Venao that’s worth a visit. You’ll need to head over to Eco Venao Lodge because this little gem is nestled on their land.
It’s an easy half-day hike through their property, leading you to a small but refreshing waterfall and viewpoint known as “La Cascada.” It’s about 1.5 miles and is suitable for adventurers of all ages and fitness levels, including the little ones.
Keep your eyes peeled as I’ve heard you might catch glimpses of howler monkeys putting on a tree-swinging show too!
Pro Tip: To make sure you’re on the right path, grab a map of the Cascada Trail at Eco Venao Lodge’s reception for a small fee, as it’s not available on Google Maps.
7. Day Trip To Playa Cambutal 🌊
If you’re looking for some tranquillity away from Playa Venao, set your course for Playa Cambutal. Tucked away just an hour’s drive from Playa Venao, this remote beach is your ticket to discovering another stunning location away from the crowds.
Cambutal isn’t your typical beach; it’s a charming fishing village where surfers and the locals come together to create a welcoming community. It’s got a laid-back vibe and jaw-dropping ocean views.
While you’re there, why not channel your inner explorer to uncover hidden gems like the caves at La Cuchilla and secret coves along the shoreline? Don’t be surprised to find seasoned surfers, yoga enthusiasts, and dedicated fishermen in this quiet haven.
FYI: Cambutal’s monthly town market is held on the last Saturday of the month. If you have a 4×4, continue on along the dirt road at the end of the village; you’ll pass stunning coastline and lush farmland!
8. Go Zipling 🦜
If you’re up for an adrenaline rush get ready to check off a major bucket list item during your time in Playa Venao – ziplining!
You’ll be able to book a trip via WAO Zipline Playa Venao directly. They’ve got Panama’s longest zipline adventure waiting for you in the lush Cañas jungle of the Azuero peninsula.
The ziplines consist of numerous lines including an epic 1-kilometre zip and two thrilling 15-meter rappels. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to see monkeys, parrots, and other wildlife.
You can also make a booking through Selina Hotel for an all-inclusive adventure that includes transportation, a tour guide, and a waterfall finale to wrap things up in style.
9. Horseback Riding At Sunset 🏇
Riding horses along the stunning beach of Playa Venao is an experience like no other and a popular activity. Picture a dark sandy 3-kilometre stretch of beachfront as your backdrop surrounded by ocean and jungle.
One of the good things we noticed about Panama was that they look after their animals well, so there’s no need to worry about the horses being mistreated. In Playa Venao, there are two trusted tour providers who ensure a secure and enjoyable ride.
At Eco Venao Lodge, they offer eco-friendly journeys that lead you through their eco projects, whether it’s a beachside trot or a mountain expedition. You’ll need to make a booking at least a day in advance so they can bring the horses down from the mountains for you.
If a beachside sunset ride is more your style, look no further than Jaeder from Playa Venao Horse. Shoot him a message on Instagram to book a sunset ride!
10. Explore Mangroves At Isla Canas 🚣♀️
Another fun thing to do in Playa Venao includes visiting a thriving mangrove ecosystem teeming with marine wonders. Visiting mangroves, from past experience, can be quite an eerie and surreal experience but it’s something which shouldn’t be missed if you love nature!
Did you know that mangroves are crucial ecologically because they serve as valuable coastal ecosystems that provide a wide range of benefits? They act as natural buffers against coastal erosion and storm surges, offer critical habitats for numerous marine species, filter pollutants from water, and store significant amounts of carbon, helping mitigate climate change.
Isla Canas has 14 kilometres of beaches and 1,200 hectares of mangroves; it is a wonderful natural sanctuary.
From Playa Venao, you can sign up for a three-hour trip with Visita Canas. The tour provides a local guide, convenient transportation from Playa Venao to the Port of Cañas, your choice of SUP or kayak, and a bilingual guide (offering English and Spanish).
You’ll spend 30 minutes on the water, gliding to Canas Island and back, and embark on a fascinating Cañas Island tour. If you love visiting islands, check out our post on visiting the San Blas Islands in Panama here.
Pro Tips: Keep an eye on the tides, as the tour timing depends on them, and be sure to generously apply bug repellent—those critters can be pesky. Lastly, remember that this fantastic adventure is weather-dependent so keep that in mind if you’re visiting during the wet season.
11. Boutique Shopping
There are not many beautiful boutique shops around Playa Venao but one place you can grab some incredible items to top up your wardrobe or buy souvenirs for loved ones is the quaint shop of Merci Venao.
Merci Venao is owned and managed by the wonderful Alexia from France, who visited Playa Venao, fell in love with the town and then decided to stay and open up a shop!
You’ll find this beach boutique teeming with fun and colourful items from stylish sarongs and personalised beach bags to cosmetics and local products, many of which are made locally in Panama.
You’ll also be able to pick up a bottle of Rose Wine from her store!
The shop has a fresh, bohemian vibe with plenty of unique shopping ideas for you to take a piece of Playa Venao home with you.
12. Yoga At Sunrise 🧘♀️
Playa Venao isn’t just about the beach; it’s a hub of health and wellness too! Whether you’re into yoga, Pilates, or outdoor workouts, this place has you covered. There are plenty of studios and even a few gyms in town to keep you active.
Eco Venao Lodge offers bi-weekly yoga classes, while Selina Playa Venao and Selina Venao River take it up a notch with activities like beach volleyball, sound healings, meditations, and various ocean-view yoga sessions.
Don’t miss their invigorating early morning Yoga session at the Wellness Deck for just $15!
Pro Tip: Check the notice boards at your accommodation for weekly schedules.
13. Dance Around A Bonfire 🔥
One of the coolest after-dark activities is gathering around a beach bonfire. These fiery soirées kick off between 9 and 10 p.m., creating the perfect setting to mingle with other travellers and friendly locals.
Don’t forget to bring along some booze, I feel like a bottle of rum is appropriate bonfire etiquette, plus a handful of snacks to roast over the crackling flames – marshmallows maybe?
If you’re looking to crank up the party vibes you’ll want to visit Playa Venao on weekends and make a beeline for Selina – they’ve got it all, from electronic beats to salsa that will keep you grooving until the wee hours.
You could also dance the night away at El Sitio (where you might just stumble upon some mesmerizing light shows). And for a more laid-back evening, La Barca Beach Club is your go-to spot, offering a restaurant, bar, pool, and live music on weekends.
Even with its relaxed atmosphere, Playa Venao knows how to keep the good times rolling after dark!
Where To Stay In Playa Venao?
If you’re wondering where to stay in Playa Venao or what types of accommodations are available, you’ll be happy to hear that there are plenty of choices in Playa Venao.
📍Co-Working: Selina River
Located right on the beach, this bright hostel features free WiFi throughout. It’s a great place to stay if you want a fun and social atmosphere and to easily meet other travellers.
📍Mid-Range: Eco Venao Lodge
Eco Venao is set within a 140-hectare reforestation project. With a choice of low-impact accommodations, it’s an ideal stay if you want something unique offering a restaurant and Free Wi-Fi access.
📍Budget: Nao Venao Boutique Hostel
You’ll stay in a nice room or apartment with good air conditioning and a tasty breakfast included.
How To Get To & Getting Around Playa Venao
✅ If you’re looking to book a private driver I’ve found this company on Viator which you might want to use!
Playa Venao can be quite tricky to get to if you choose to use public transport since it requires multiple buses. It takes the whole day but if you have the time it can be done as this is how we did it!
👉We’ve written a full guide for how to get to Playa Venao here.
If local transport isn’t your travel style it’s possible to arrange shuttle buses from places like Panama City. A shuttle bus you can use is My Pink Bus Panama.
Once you’re in Playa Venao you’ll find that you’ll be moving around mostly by foot, and usually, this encompasses walks to and from the beach. Playa Venao really isn’t that big so unless you’re planning to explore nearby villages you won’t have much use for transport.
👉 We’ve also written a guide on how to get to Boquete or Bocas del Toro from Playa Venao, for when you’re ready to leave!
That said, bicycles and golf carts can be rented which are great ways to explore the town and beach area. There are also a few scooter rental places if you fancy taking some day trips, such as Autos Panama.
👉 Do you like to use Uber to get around? Find out if there is there Uber in Panama here.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Playa Venao? 🌞
Are you wondering when to visit Playa Venao? Well, it really all boils down to your travel style and what tickles your fancy. Most people will agree the best weather and optimal surf conditions are between December to April, even though it’s a bustling period.
👉You can expect balmy average temperatures of 27 degrees Celsius (80 Fahrenheit), with the ocean a refreshing 25 degrees Celsius (77 Fahrenheit).
👉That said, if you prefer fewer crowds but still crave fantastic weather and wave action, the shoulder months of April/May or November are a good bet. The beauty of Playa Venao is that it’s a spot that can be visited all year round.
👉We went in June at the start of the rainy season. It rained, but not all day and even when it did, we were still out on the boards!
Pro Tip: If you’re all about soaking up local customs and culture, make a date for February’s Carnival celebrations. We’ve written a full month-by-month weather guide for Panama here.
Where To Eat In Playa Venao? 🍲
While you’re in Panama you have to try some of the classic Panamanian dishes like patacones which are literally flattened and fried green plantains (large bananas, kind off) to fresh fish, raw fish (ceviche) and even Arroz con Pollo: A classic Latin American dish, it’s chicken and rice cooked together with vegetables and spices for a flavorful one-pot meal!
- Playa Venao Cantina is a great restaurant to visit at night. It’s fairly new and is full every night – all the locals go there – so make sure you make a reservation.
- Swell Beach Bar is the best place to party. You’ll find a mix of locals and tourists! There is also a Pizzaria which opened next to this place on the beach. So you could easily eat a pizza on the beach before heading to Swell, it’s called Gatto Blanco.
- Sol is the place to go for healthy breakfasts and also paninis and cold-pressed juices – make sure you add this place to your morning brekky stop!
- Motek is the best place if you’re craving something sweet. They do homemade ice creams, crepes and waffles that are to die for!
- Selina River‘s – Almendro Cafe – is the ultimate place for lunch.
Travel Tips For Visiting Playa Venao
- There is an ATM in town. Well, it’s slightly out of town just down the main road at the petrol station. It’s easily walkable from the bay around 5 mins.
- FYI: The ATM was charging $5.50 per transaction!
- There is also a supermarket in Playa Venao now too. However, if it’s fresh fruit and veg you’re after there’s a small store behind the minimart.
- Air Panama is now doing a flight 3 times a week (Weds, Friday and Sunday) to Pedasi which is not far from Venao!
FAQs: Things To Do In Playa Venao
Playa Venao’s cost can vary depending on your travel preferences and choices. It’s considered moderately priced compared to some other tourist destinations and that’s because Panama isn’t the cheapest country to visit.
However, Playa Venao is more affordable than other more popular destinations in Panama such as Panama City or the beautiful mountain town of Boquete.
Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to more upscale resorts, and dining choices can cater to various budgets. Local restaurants often offer reasonably priced meals, while international cuisine and upscale dining may be more expensive.
Activities like surfing and zip-lining may have associated costs. Overall, Playa Venao offers options for different budgets, making it accessible to a range of travellers but it is not as affordable as say, Bali.
Absolutely, Playa Venao is home to a variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys. These monkeys are often spotted swinging through the trees in the surrounding rainforest. Observing wildlife is one of the many attractions of the area, so keep your eyes peeled for these fascinating creatures during your visit.
We found Playa Venao to be safe and we had no issues while we visited. In general, it is considered a safe place when talking about serious crime although theft can be an issue.
Like most places, it’s essential to take standard safety precautions as you would in any travel destination. These include safeguarding your belongings, avoiding walking alone at night in secluded areas, and being aware of your surroundings.
Things To Do In Playa Venao Conclusion
Playa Venao offers a treasure trove of experiences for nature lovers, surfers and those of you seeking a more off-the-beaten-path destination. It really doesn’t matter if you’re a beach bum, an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a foodie, you’re gonna love this coastal paradise!
If I were you, I’d start my day with a morning beach walk to really appreciate to area before stopping for a coffee. Get to know the beach, take it all in and explore the area. Venture into the lush rainforests and catch some unforgettable waves.
Viva Playa Venao!
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