Las Lajas
Province: Chiriquí
The town of Las Lajas in Panama is primarily known for its extensive, tranquil, and relatively undeveloped Playa Las Lajas (Las Lajas Beach) on the Pacific coast in the province of Chiriquí.
Geographic data
| Province | Chiriquí |
|---|---|
| Area | 54.2 km2 |
| Founded | 0 |
| Population | 1521 |
| Elevation | 0 m |
- Location: Las Lajas is located on the Pacific coast of Panama, in the Chiriquí Province, and is the seat of the San Félix District. The turnoff from the Inter-American Highway is about 75 kilometers (47 miles) east of the city of David.
- The Town Itself: The actual small town of Las Lajas is located a few kilometers inland from the beach. It offers a low-key, local atmosphere and typically has basic amenities like small grocery stores (supermarkets) and a few local restaurants.
- Playa Las Lajas (The Beach): This is the main attraction, famous for:
- Length and Sand: It's one of the longest beaches in Panama, stretching for approximately 12 to 13 kilometers (8 miles) of sand.
- Atmosphere: It's generally a very relaxed, peaceful, and uncrowded beach, giving it a feeling of being pristine or a "hidden gem."
- Water Activities: The waters are often calm and warm, making them good for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The consistent waves also make it suitable for surfing, particularly for beginners during the dry season.
- Activities: Besides beach lounging, popular activities include:
- Horseback Riding: Tours along the long stretch of beach.
- Nature: Exploring nearby mangrove forests and wetlands for birdwatching, and occasionally spotting sea turtles that nest on the beach from July to September.
- Boating: Taking boat trips to the nearby islands in the Gulf of Chiriquí, such as the islands of Ensenada and Isla Silva de Afuera.
- Travel Hub: Las Lajas is a convenient and scenic stopover point for travelers driving between Panama City and other popular destinations in Chiriquí, like the cloud forests of Boquete or the coastal town of Boca Chica.
In summary, Las Lajas is a charming destination on Panama's Pacific coast that appeals to those looking for a laid-back, beautiful beach experience away from major tourist crowds.