Hotels in San Carlos

San Carlos: Where Coastal Serenity Meets Lush Garden Wonders

Nestled in the heart of Panamá Oeste, San Carlos is a tropical paradise that beckons beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its pristine shores along Istmo Beach and lush gardens, this hidden gem offers a tranquil escape from the bustling capital of Panama City. Visitors can indulge in sun-soaked days, explore vibrant local culture, or embark on exhilarating adventures in the surrounding landscapes. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or an off-the-beaten-path experience, San Carlos promises unforgettable moments in one of Panama's most enchanting coastal retreats. Discover the serene beauty and charm that make San Carlos truly special! For the best hotel rates in San Carlos and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in San Carlos

Some of the best places to stay in San Carlos are Costa Blanca and Nueva Gorgona. San Carlos, Panamá Oeste Province, offers travelers stunning beaches and a relaxed vibe. Costa Blanca is popular for its beautiful coastline and family-friendly atmosphere, making it ideal for first-time visitors. Nueva Gorgona features vibrant local culture and easy access to Panama City. Both areas provide various accommodations, from luxury hotels with parking to cozy jungle bungalows and beach inns, ensuring a comfortable stay. Whether you prefer a lively beachfront or a tranquil retreat, you'll find great options in both locations. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in San Carlos:

1. Costa BlancaOpens in a new window: Costa Blanca is a fantastic destination for beach lovers, featuring stunning shorelines like Playa Blanca, Farallón Beach, and Santa Clara Beach. This area is perfect for those seeking sun, sand, and various water sports. The hotels here include Playa Blanca Beach Resort - All InclusiveOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star all-inclusive resort that offers unlimited food and drinks, direct beach access, and amenities for business travelers. The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort Panama, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star resort, provides adventure sports and recreation activities, catering to both thrill-seekers and business guests. For families, Royal Decameron Panama Plus - All InclusiveOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star all-inclusive resort, features extensive amenities and children’s activities, ensuring an enjoyable stay for guests of all ages.
2. Nueva GorgonaOpens in a new window: Nueva Gorgona is an ideal beach destination with beautiful coastlines such as Coronado Beach and Playa Malibú. It also boasts the Coronado Mall for shopping and entertainment options. In this area, Dreams Playa Bonita Panama - All InclusiveOpens in a new window stands out as a 4.0-star all-inclusive resort with a range of family-friendly amenities and direct beach access. Dreams Playa Bonita PanamaOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star hotel, offers various dining options and recreational activities, while The Westin Playa Bonita PanamaOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel, provides premium services and facilities for families and business travelers alike, making it a well-rounded choice for visitors.

Things to do in San Carlos for first time

San Carlos offers a refreshing escape for travelers seeking sun-soaked beaches and lush gardens. With stunning coastal views and nearby mountains, visitors can enjoy activities like surfing, boating, and hiking in a serene natural setting. Three days here perfectly balances relaxation and adventure amid breathtaking landscapes. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to San Carlos:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Coronado Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the warm Pacific waters. After a refreshing morning, make your way to Los Cajones de Chame, a stunning natural site known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful rock formations—perfect for a swim or a scenic hike. As the day winds down, head to Teta Beach to relax on the sandy shores and witness a breathtaking sunset, a perfect way to end your day in paradise.
• Day 2: Start your day at Playa Blanca, a beautiful stretch of beach ideal for sunbathing and water activities. Following your time on the beach, visit Buenaventura Marina, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch and take in the views of luxury yachts and the vibrant marina life. Conclude your day at Farallón Beach, where the tranquil waves and palm trees create a serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after an exciting day.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to Playa Malibú, a hidden gem known for its calm waters and stunning scenery—perfect for swimming or simply relaxing on the beach. Next, explore APROVACA The Orchid Center, where you can learn about the diverse orchid species native to Panama and enjoy the lush gardens. Wrap up your day with a hike to the Sleeping Indian Girl, a natural landmark offering panoramic views of the surrounding area, ensuring that you leave with unforgettable memories of your time in San Carlos.

5 tips to find a great San Carlos hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit San Carlos is from September to November, when hotel rates are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, it's advisable to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure better prices. For the best experience, plan to stay at least 2-3 days to fully enjoy the local attractions, such as the beautiful beaches and lush gardens. This destination offers great value for money, making it an ideal spot for travelers on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for great hotel deals in San Carlos, exploring last-minute offers can lead to fantastic savings. To find these opportunities on Hotels.com, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you snag great rates on discount hotels.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in San Carlos.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and the ease of reaching the sights you want to see.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in San Carlos and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

Best time to go to San Carlos

San Carlos experiences its lowest average temperature in November, at 77.2°F (25.1°C), while April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 80.4°F (26.9°C). October is usually the wettest month. January to March are the peak travel months in San Carlos, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with dry rainfall. On the other hand, May, June, and October tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by moderate to frequent rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.

San Carlos Travel Information