AREA GUIDE: Pedasi

Last Updated: June 5, 2024

The charming town of Pedasí is situated on the southeastern tip of the Azuero Peninsula and offers a perfect blend of traditional Panamanian culture, stunning natural beauty, and exciting outdoor activities.

One of the special things about this town is that it still very much feels like an authentic Panamanian town despite having a fairly significant number of English-speaking expats

About Pedasí, Panamá

Pedasí is located in the Los Santos Province of Panamá, nestled on the Azuero Peninsula’s southeastern coast. This picturesque town is known for its vibrant community, colonial architecture, and proximity to pristine beaches and nature reserves.

On one side, you have the Pacific Ocean with its sandy shores, while on the other, you’ll find quiet neighborhoods, lush countryside and working farms.

Pedasí offers a laid-back atmosphere where you can enjoy warm weather and a welcoming vibe. The town has maintained its traditional charm while slowly integrating modern amenities, making it a great destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Though it’s a small town, Pedasí has essential services like supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, gas stations, restaurants, bars, and shops. It’s an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas, including the famous Isla Iguana and several beautiful beaches.

Best Time to Visit Pedasí

Panamá’s climate is tropical, with consistent temperatures year-round, generally ranging from 32°C to 35°C (89°F to 95°F). The main difference in seasons is the amount of rainfall.

Dry Season: Lasting from approximately mid-December to mid-April, this is the best time to visit if you prefer sunny weather and little to no rain. The landscape turns golden and it’s ideal for beach activities.

Rainy Season: From approximately mid-April to mid-December, this season sees more rain, often in the form of short, heavy showers. This is also the lushest time of year, with vibrant greenery and flowing waterfalls and it's ideal for whale watching and sea turtle nesting.

For a detailed comparison of the seasons, check out our guide—Best Time to Visit Panamá

How to Get to Pedasí from Panama City

Pedasí is approximately 350 kilometers (217 miles) southwest of Panama City. You can reach Pedasí by a combination of plane, bus, shuttle, or car. Driving is a popular option, as it allows you to explore the Azuero Peninsula at your own pace.

For detailed travel instructions, check out our post—5 Ways to Get From Panama City to Pedasí

And for car rental tips, see our guide—12 Tips for Renting a Car in Panamá

Where to Stay in Pedasí

Pedasí offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from guesthouses to boutique hotels and bed and breakfast inns.

Here are some recommended places to stay:

Casa Lajagua: A boutique bed and breakfast with comfortable rooms, a refreshing pool, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for couples and families.
La Maravilla Pedasi: A beautiful place to stay, surrounded by nature and close to the beach and town.
Hotel Carey: Enjoy easy access to shopping, popular restaurants, and beaches from this charming place to stay.
Zenquility Inn: Modern comfort meets serene ambiance at this peaceful bed and breakfast.

Things To Do in Pedasí

Pedasí is a gateway to numerous outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Some activities to enjoy include:

Fishing: Deep-sea fishing is popular, with opportunities to catch marlin, tuna, and more. Boats launch from Playa Arenal, just outside of town.
Exploring & beach combing on local beaches: In addition to Playa Arenal, there are several gorgeous local beaches, including Playa Toro and Playa La Garita.
Stand up paddle boarding or kayaking
Boogie boarding and body surfing
Disconnecting and relaxing
Visit & snorkel Isla Iguana
Whale watching (humpback whales birth their calves close to the shore!)
Visit & surf in Playa Venao

Eating in Pedasí

If you haven’t traveled around Panama too much, especially to non-expat dominated towns, it might seem like Pedasi lacks dining options. But, that would definitely NOT be correct!

This is not a culture focused on capitalism (thank god), so you might find restaurants closed more often than you’d like or a bit hidden. But, it’s fun to discover all the culinary treasures here...and, even better, the places here don’t gauge you!

Pedasí offers a variety of dining options, from local fondas serving traditional Panamanian dishes to international restaurants. Definitely try the local seafood, which is fresh and delicious!

Some recommended spots include:

Smiley’s: A popular spot for both locals and expats, offering live music, great food, and a lively atmosphere.
Bohemia Pizzeria: Known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas and casual setting.
Frutas Del Mar: Creole food with a specialty in seafood.
Jungla: A small café serving delicious breakfasts and lunches.
Andromeda Beach Club: Tucked away inside a gated community outside of town, this more upscale outdoor restaurant offers delicious food and a gorgeous view that make it worth the drive!
Arenal Cantina: For an authentic Panamanian experience, head to Playa Arenal for $1 beers and affordable seafood right on the beach!
Black Pearl: On the way to Playa Arenal, you'll find this Cambutal transplant serving delicious Peruvian fusion food.
Chichemito: An affordable local favorite fonda serving grilled chicken, pork, and other Panamanian specialties.

Language, Money, etc.

Spanish is the primary language in Pedasí, but you’ll find English spoken at the spots that cater to expats. It’s definitely helpful (and respectful!) to know some basic Spanish phrases or have a translation app on your phone.

Panamá uses the U.S. dollar, so there’s no need for currency exchange if you’re coming from the U.S. Many businesses in Pedasí accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments.

Electrical outlets and voltage are the same as in the U.S., and local SIM cards for mobile phones can be purchased if you need reliable service. Tigo is the preferred provider for this area.

WhatsApp is widely used for communication, so it’s beneficial to have the app installed on your phone.

Here's an excellent resource for your future trip to Pedasí! Pro-Animales Pedasi Pages Directory

Pedasí is a perfect blend of traditional charm and modern amenities, offering a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, it has something for everyone. Explore this beautiful town and discover why it’s one of Panamá’s hidden gems.