| Panama is an excellent location
to go snorkeling and diving. On either coastline there are abundant
places to experience both activities. Below is a list of some
of the more interesting and popular locations in Panama to go
snorkeling or diving.
Please note
that additional info (prices, activities, etc) are found to the
right of this pages. 
Panama Pacific Coast Region
Las Perlas
 Just
a short trip from Panama City, Las Perlas consists of a couple
hundred small islands. Most are very small and uninhabited, but
all offer great scuba diving and snorkeling. The visibility of
the waters is excellent and the amount of underwater sea life
is incredible.
Coiba Island National Marine Park
The Coiba National Park is just off the Pacific
Coast of Panama and consists of a series of uninhabited islands.
The islands themselves are spectacular, but the reason you head
out to this park is for the underwater adventures. The reef systems
is extensive, and the area is home to some impressive marine flora
and fauna. The visibility ranges from 60-80 feet.
Many species of marine life are present in this
area. Especially interesting are the opportunities divers have
to see Pilot, Sperm and Humpback whales. There are some good dive
tours that can take divers to some fantastic spots in and around
these beautiful islands.
Caribbean (Atlantic) Coast Region
San Blas Islands
 Another
series of beautiful tropical islands. These particular islands
stretch along Panamanian coastline almost all the way down to
Colombia. The waters of the islands are warm, clear and offer
excellent snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. Combine that
with uncrowded spectacular beaches and you have a fantastic destination
in Panama.
Bocas del Toro
Bocas del Toro is renowned as one of the most
beautiful spots in and around Panama. Bocas del Toros is a series
of small islands surrounding by crystal clear waters, thriving
reefs and not many people. What better place to go scuba diving
or snorkeling?
Portobello
 Portobello
used to be an important port during the 16th century Spanish colonial
era. Since that time there has always been sea traffic in and
around this area. The diving is great and the marine life abundant.
There is some reef diving in the area. What stands out though
is the opportunity to dive in and around the numerous shipwrecks
in the area. One area to visit is the Salmedina Reef. The reef
is full of marine life and as such is interested. The reef also
was the cause of many shipwrecks which means you can dive to those
as well.
Drakes Island
This island was named after
the English pirate Sir Francis Drake. The island itself is located
just at the mouth of Portobello Bay. The waters off the island
offer both snorkelers and divers some interesting coral formations.
Living in and among the coral formations are abundant can colorfull
marine life.
Two spots of interest in this area are Bubble
Rock and Iron Castle Reef.
Wherever you go to in Panama you are sure to
find some excellent spots to go scuba diving or snorkeling. The
waters are clear, the marine life abundant, and more importantly
there are not a lot of people in these areas. What could be better.
Enjoy your snorkeling and diving in Panama!
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