Aguadulce

Aguadulce, meaning 'sweet water,' is a vital economic hub in the Coclé province. The city is primarily famous for its vast salt pans (salinas), which create a striking landscape during the dry season. Beyond salt, the region is a powerhouse for the sugar industry and a leader in aquaculture, specifically shrimp farming. The Stella Sierra Museum provides visitors with insights into the history of salt and sugar production, alongside local art exhibitions. The surrounding geography features wide coastal plains and mangrove ecosystems near the shore. Gastronomy here is a delight for seafood lovers, with fresh shrimp dominating the local menus. While less of a conventional tourist spot, Aguadulce has an authentic glimpse into Panama's industrial and rural heartland. The best time to visit and see the salt harvest is from January to April.

Nearby cities

Panama City

Modern capital on the Pacific coast featuring an impressive skyline.

David

Major city in the west, near the border with Costa Rica.

Colón

Port city at the Caribbean entrance to the Panama Canal.

Santiago de Veraguas

A major agricultural and commercial center.

Chitré

Capital of Herrera province, known for its local festivals.

Soná

A historic agricultural hub and the gateway to the world-renowned surfing and diving spots of Veraguas.

Playa Blanca

A premium resort destination on the Pacific coast featuring giant pools and white sand beaches.

Pedasí

A charming fishing village on the Azuero Peninsula, famous for its beaches, whale watching, and surfing.

Bocas Isla Bastimentos

A wild island in Bocas del Toro known for its marine national park, red frogs, and Afro-Caribbean heritage.

Santa Fé

A charming mountain village in Veraguas, famous for its orchids, coffee culture, and countless waterfalls.

Farallón / Río Hato

A premier Pacific beach destination featuring luxury resorts and expansive golden sand beaches.

Santa Catalina

A once-remote fishing village, now famous as one of Central America's premier surf spots and the gateway to Coiba National Park.

Playa Venao

A world-class surfing destination featuring black sand beaches and a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere.

History & landmarks

Las Tablas

The cultural heart of the Azuero Peninsula, known for its magnificent carnival celebrations and traditional Panamanian folklore.

Darien National Park

A wild and remote area on the border with Colombia with incredible biodiversity.

Pearl Islands

An archipelago in the Gulf of Panama, famous for its beaches and clear waters.

Amador Causeway

A causeway linking islands, offering great views of the city skyline.

Biomuseo

A colorful biodiversity museum designed by architect Frank Gehry.

Taboga Island

Taboga Island, also known as the "Island of Flowers," is a picturesque volcanic island situated in the Gulf of Panama.

Panama Canal

A world-famous artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

El Valle de Anton

A village located inside one of the world's largest inhabited volcanic craters.

Nature

Chagres River

The river that provides the water essential for the operation of the Panama Canal.

Gatun Lake

A massive artificial lake that forms a major part of the Panama Canal.

More places

San Blas Islands

Archipelago owned and governed by the indigenous Guna people.

Panamá Viejo

The archaeological ruins of the first Spanish city in Panama.

Casco Viejo

The historic district of Panama City featuring colonial architecture.

Fortifications of Portobelo

Major Spanish colonial defenses located on the Caribbean coast.

Soberania National Park

A world-renowned destination for birdwatching in the tropical rainforest.

Fort San Lorenzo

A historic fortress situated at the mouth of the Chagres River.

Coiba National Park

A large Pacific island with rich marine life, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Volcan Baru National Park

The protected area surrounding the country's highest peak.