The beaches between Punta Chame and Rio Hato are, as it were, in my backyard. There are several, each with a unique personality. The area they are in is known as the arco seco, or dry arc.
What’s so special about the arco seco? While many areas of Panama receive 30 centimeters of rain annually, arco seco remains below 55 centimeters. This gives us better weather and sunnier days on the beach.
Here you can take your pick of beaches…
Punta Chame is ideal for kitesurfing. Playa Serena is great for walking and swimming. Playa Teta has a special atmosphere that feels somewhat Caribbean. Playa Rio Mar is known for its good surfing. Playa Farallon has a clean white sandy beach and good public facilities including bathrooms and showers.
And that’s just a selection of the many options available.
Affordable living in Coronado
Located in the heart of the area that includes Punta Chame and Rio Hato Coronado. It was one of the first resort developments in Panama and is a popular spot for expats, tourists and vacationers.
Coronado is located approximately 55 miles from Panama City. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes. There is also a good bus connection.
Cost of living here varies, and while it may not boast the absolute lowest cost of living for expats, this area does offer affordable options and attractive prices for luxury living at beachside resorts and custom homes.
Rental prices range from $400 to $1,500 per month depending on what you are looking for. Variables that dictate this wide range include location, size, age, building type and style, etc.
My wife and I live in a beach resort, where our monthly rent and utilities are just under $1,100. We have beach and mountain views from our windows, and the beach is an eight-minute walk from our front door.
We have numerous food choices, including organic options. Restaurants that specialize in typical Panamanian dishes are often very affordable. We also enjoy shopping and dining just a 10-minute drive away.
Our community is a quiet community during the week. Most of the owners here are weekenders. We are one of a handful of full-time residents. This is common at the many seaside resorts in our area.
Healthcare and facilities
The areas in and around Coronado offer many shopping, health clinics, veterinarians, restaurants, pharmacies and professional service options. We also have a Clinica Hospital San Fernando 15 minutes from our apartment.
In terms of routine health care costs and other services, we paid $40 for a routine dental cleaning in Coronado, $35 in Panama City and just $20 in nearby Anton’s Valley.
Local clinics charge between $10 and $25 for general visits. My wife and I only paid $50 to see specialists. The quality of health care is equivalent to, and in some cases better than, that in the United States. In addition, many doctors speak English.
Electricity can range from $50 to $150 per month for a two-bedroom apartment, depending on your usage and location.
Social life here includes expat happy hours, church groups, volunteer groups, trivia nights, boot camp training groups, movie nights, hiking and more.
Whether you’re looking for lively seaside resorts, quiet sandy beaches or easy access to modern amenities, this sun-drenched region offers it all.
#beachside #city #Panama #offers #luxury #living #month