🏝 Buenaventura: Panama’s Pacific Playground of Luxury, Leisure & Local Escape
- Brownie
- Aug 28
- 3 min read
Just under two hours from Panama City, Buenaventura feels like its own coastal bubble—equal parts luxury resort, high-end residential enclave, and refined beach getaway. Nestled on the Pacific coast in Río Hato, this gated community is a favorite for expats, Panama City second-home owners, and travelers looking for a more polished beach experience without the buzz of big crowds.
Whether you’re staying at the Marriott or visiting for the day, Buenaventura offers something rare in Panama: tropical ease with elegant amenities.
🛎 Where You’ll Stay: The Buenaventura Golf & Beach Resort (Marriott)
This Marriott-branded resort is the centerpiece of the community, set within sprawling, manicured grounds lined with palm trees, ponds, and flowering tropical plants. The architecture blends Spanish colonial style with modern comforts.
Rooms and suites are spacious and refined
There’s a serene spa, fitness center, and pool area
Families appreciate the kid-friendly layout and activities
Golfers love the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course
This is the kind of place where you can do a lot—or nothing at all.
🏡 Beyond the Hotel: Second Homes, Expats & Private Living
Many Panama City residents have second homes here, and the expat population is growing steadily. You’ll find a mix of beautifully designed villas, condos, and custom-built estates lining quiet boulevards and cul-de-sacs—often with private pools, golf carts, and flowering tropical gardens.
Despite its exclusivity, Buenaventura doesn’t feel stuffy. It’s elegant, but relaxed.
🍷 Amenities That Set It Apart
What makes Buenaventura stand out is the range of amenities, most of which are available to resort guests and homeowners alike:
🛍 Felipe Motta wine & gourmet market (well-stocked, great for picking up a bottle or imported goods)
🎾 Tennis & paddle courts
🦜 Buenaventura Zoo – a small animal zoo perfect for younger kids
🚁 Helipad access (for private transfers from Panama City)
🏖 Private beach with calm surf and lots of space to spread out
🛶 Lagoon & canal system (some homes have water access; kayaking available)
🍽 Where to Eat in Buenaventura
You don’t need to leave the gates to eat well. Here are several dining options inside the community:
Mansa – Beachfront, relaxed, fresh seafood, burgers, ceviche & cocktails
El Faro Beach Club – For guests/members; upscale beachside dining and poolside service
Tagua Grill – Located inside the Marriott, offering grilled meats, salads, and cocktails by the pool
Criollo Restaurant – Also inside the Marriott; elegant Panamanian cuisine with local ingredients
Palapa Bar – A casual open-air bar, ideal for drinks before dinner
Felipe Motta Café – Great for coffee, sandwiches, and light bites
Tip: If you’re renting a villa or condo, you can stock up at the Felipe Motta market and cook at home. Many homes come with full outdoor kitchens and BBQs.
🛡 Is It Gated?
Yes—Buenaventura is a fully gated, secure community with 24/7 security. It’s one of the most well-maintained private developments in Panama and designed with comfort, privacy, and exclusivity in mind. You’ll need a lunch/dinner/room reservation or homeowner access to enter. Access to the zoo is separate from the gated entrance and it is open to the public.
🎯 Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a refined, resort-style beach experience in Panama—with a touch of privacy, strong cocktails, and well-groomed landscaping—Buenaventura delivers. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to slow down in comfort.
Whether you’re playing tennis at sunrise, sipping sangria at sunset, or just floating in the pool under the palms, Buenaventura is about ease—and once you arrive, it’s easy to see why people keep coming back.