08-06-2026
Trying to decide between living in Panama City or on the beach? After living in both, I’ve experienced the advantages and challenges of each. Here’s what I learned and what I’d recommend depending on your lifestyle and priorities.
While living in the city for a year, I found there were endless restaurants to try, neighborhoods to explore, beautiful waterfront walks along the Cinta Costera and conveniences within reach. It gave me the confidence to settle into life abroad while still feeling connected to familiar necessities. But I always knew I would move to the beach.
| If you love… | Choose… |
|---|---|
| Restaurants & nightlife | Panama City |
| Walking on the beach | Beach life |
| Big shopping malls | Panama City |
| Quiet mornings | Beach life |
| Cultural events | Panama City |
| Sound of ocean waves every day | Beach life |
Whenever I escaped for a beach getaway, I found myself lingering a little longer on the balcony. I walked the shoreline at sunrise instead of checking my phone. I slept deeper and felt calmer. Each time I needed to travel back to the city, I found myself wishing I did not have to leave.
Nueva Gorgona
Today, instead of packing a suitcase for a weekend getaway, I make my morning coffee and step onto my own balcony overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The sound of the waves has become part of my daily routine instead of an occasional treat. Does that mean beach life is “better”? Not necessarily. Life at the beach is quieter. Shopping takes a little more planning. If I need something not available in this area, I drive forty minutes to Costa Verde, a suburban area that has all the stores I became accustomed to in the city. After living in the city without a car for a year as Uber is so affordable, I purchased a brand new Suzuki 7-passenger hybrid at a great price!
If I do need a day in the city, it’s another half hour beyond Costa Verde—but I no longer need the city’s energy every day. Instead, I’ve traded convenience for calm. I’ve traded traffic noise for ocean waves. I’ve traded rushing from one thing to the next for mornings that begin with gratitude.
There is a large Expat community here at the beach. I have found myself being more social than I was in the city as we are in closer proximity to one another and activities are well organized. I attend gameday once a week, Spanish class twice a week and I joined a bowling league at new bowling lanes near the pickleball facility.
One of my favorite moments is watching new vacationers arrive. Families unload their vehicles, children race toward the pool, and couples stop to admire the same ocean view that first captured my heart. I smile because I remember exactly how they feel. Not long ago, I was one of them. Now, instead of wondering how quickly my getaway will fly by, I simply walk inside, put away my groceries and realize I get to live here.
Sometimes I still miss parts of Panama City. I miss favorite restaurants, the convenience, and the energy that comes with living in a capital city. But this season of my life has taught me something important: There isn’t one perfect place to live. There is only the place that feels right for who you are today. For me, it’s a little condo overlooking the Pacific Ocean that has an International city within driving distance. I love having both choices, and I don’t think I would have moved here permanently if both options were not available.
For me, moving first to Panama City and then to the beach turned out to be the perfect transition. I experienced the energy of city life before settling into the slower pace of the coast. If you’re considering a move to Panama, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but understanding your priorities can help you choose the lifestyle that’s right for you.
Resources
Related Articles
- My Three Favorite Travel Bags
- Cost of Living in Panama (coming soon)
- Driving in Panama (coming soon)
- My Panama Resources (coming soon)
Check out my YouTube channel for videos on life in Panama @cruisinwithcate
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