Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
300 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Restinga: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — blue, clarity moderate, average temperature +26.0°C, warms up to +28.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Restinga: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Playa Restinga: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Restinga: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 300 metres.
Playa Restinga: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December. It ends in April. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Restinga: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — moderate. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Restinga: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish (in summer months), mosquitoes, sandflies. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Restinga: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: toilets. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Restinga: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming. A first aid station is available.
Playa Restinga: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restinga Beach Restaurants, Local cevicherías, Hotel La Restinga. Cuisines available: Panamanian, Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Restinga: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Headwear, Cash (Panamanian balboa).
Playa Restinga: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for swimming is from December to April. Come on weekdays to avoid crowds. At low tide you can walk to El Morro islet.
Playa Restinga: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is allowed only in the designated area. Exercise caution during tides. Take all litter with you.
Playa Restinga: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Restinga: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for Panama City residents seeking a quick beach getaway for the weekend. Suitable for families with children, swimming and walks. Not suitable for those seeking a secluded beach.
Playa Restinga: what makes this beach unique?
At low tide, a natural sandbar forms from Restinga Beach to El Morro islet, which can be crossed on foot. Frigatebirds and pelicans inhabit the islet. It is one of the few places in Panama where you can watch ships waiting to pass through the Panama Canal.
Playa Restinga: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Only 30 minutes by ferry from Panama City, Golden sand and calm water, At low tide you can walk across a sandbar to El Morro islet, Scenic views of ships waiting to pass through the Panama Canal, Developed infrastructure: restaurants, toilets, Free entry, Excellent spot for swimming and picnics. Cons: At high tide the beach practically disappears, Very crowded on weekends and holidays, Water can be murky after rain, Mosquitoes and sandflies in the evening, Limited infrastructure: only basic amenities.
Playa Restinga: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Taboga Island, El Morro Islet, Panama Canal, Cerro Vigía Viewpoint. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Restinga: how do I get to the city of Panama City?
The beach is located near the city of Panama City. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Panama City.