Paradise Found: Playa Santa Clara

Getting There

• Car

  If you are driving from Panama City, take the Pan-American Highway (Route 1) west towards La Chorrera. Continue on the highway for approximately 85 kilometers (about 1.5 hours). After passing through La Chorrera, follow the signs for Coronado and Rio Hato. Once you reach Rio Hato, look for signs that direct you to Playa Santa Clara. The beach entrance is just off the main road, and there is parking available near the beach.

• Public Transportation (Bus)

  From Panama City, head to the Albrook Bus Terminal. Look for buses heading to Penonome or Santiago, which typically stop in Rio Hato. The bus fare is approximately $5-10, depending on the bus company. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Once you arrive in Rio Hato, you can take a taxi or walk to Playa Santa Clara, which is about 5 kilometers from the bus stop. Expect to pay around $5 for a taxi.

• Taxi

  If you are already in nearby towns such as Coronado or San Carlos, you can take a taxi directly to Playa Santa Clara. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey; it should cost around $10-$15 from these locations. The drive typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

• Shared Shuttle Services

  Several hotels and resorts in the Pacific Coast region offer shared shuttle services to Playa Santa Clara. Check with your accommodation for availability and pricing, which can vary but generally ranges from $15 to $30 per person. This can be a convenient option if you're traveling with a group.