The thought of the Caribbean automatically brings to mind wonderful and fabulous beaches. And true to form, people flock to the proven tourist destinations in the area. Lying in obscurity is Panama, mainly known for its noteworthy Panama Canal but not for its attributes that would make a great tourist destination.
History Buffs

Panama is a great destination for people who love history. Panama was part of Colombia before it seceded to become an independent country in 1903. A great part of this period is the Panama Canal. It was the desire of the United States to control the Panama Canal that led it to assist in Panama’s efforts to become independent. The United States were not able to come to an amicable agreement with the French owners so it helped Panama and then proceed to negotiate with the new government. Thus was Panama liberated and thus did the United States gain control of the Panama Canal.

Archaeology and Anthropology Hobbyists

In Panama City, you will be treated to a wide collection of artifacts that relate the history and origins of the Panamanian people. Go and visit the Museo Antropologico Reina Torres De Arauz where you can view and savor the collection of archeological, anthropological and ethnological remains of Panama. You can also visit the Museo Afro-Antillano, which is the repository of photographs, information and artifacts that relate the life of the mulattoes of Panama. You can also stop by the Museo De Panama La Vieja, which will show you a collection of memorabilia and relics from the first Panama City. And aside from getting a feel of the Old Panama through a museum, you can go and directly visit Panama Viejo and Casco Viejo.

Beach Bums, Water Sports Enthusiasts and Eco Tourists

Water sports, bird watching and trail hiking are offered in Panama. It has miles and miles of live coral reefs and it has 12 national parks as well as 19 protected areas. You want the sea, Panama has it. You want jungles and forests, Panama sill has it.

One of the most famous tourist destinations in Panama is Bocas del Toro. Bocas del Toro offers you snorkeling opportunities in Boca del Drago. For those whose passion is surfing, you can take your pick or explore all of Playa Punta Puss Head, Paunch Beach, Bluff Beach, Larga Beach y Cayo Zapatillas.

For nature birdwatchers, you can indulge your passion in Bocas del Toro’s Island Birds where around 50 species of migratory birds go. In the Teribe Territory, about a 100 species of birds also thrive. Bocas del Toro, by the way, is also renowned for its thumbnail-size red frogs.

Another favorite beach destination is Isla Contadora where the Spanish used to account for their gold and silver, thus the name. You can lounge around by the shallow waters or venture out and do some serious scuba diving and snorkeling, whichever you prefer. Isla Contadora is part of the Pearl Islands so you can go island hopping as well.