Intercontinental Playa Bonita
Less than five miles west of Panama City, Intercontinental Playa Bonita is the closest beach resort to the city. Bordered by a sprawling mangrove forest and lapped at private shores by the Pacific Ocean, this sophisticated resort could feel a million miles from any hustle and bustle.
Set in a tranquil scene, interrupted only occasionally by ocean vessels awaiting transit through the Panama Canal, Intercontinental Playa Bonita offers 300 guest rooms and suites, particularly ideal for families. Generous in size and all fully air-conditioned, each guest room is fronted by a glass wall with sliding doors opening out onto a small terrace or balcony presenting splendid ocean views. Whitewash walls, tiled floors and a king-size bed adorned with crisp linens are accompanied by dark wood furnishings and a spacious marble bathroom. Executive rooms and suites each feature a sleigh bed with a novelty pillow menu, rattan furnishings, and a Jacuzzi; some also provide a dining area.
Dining options range from the beachside ‘Pelican Grill’, specialising in seafood, to the ‘Lighthouse’, offering a fixed seasonal menu. For pampering, the resort’s holistic spa provides a vast array of different treatments including massage and body wraps alongside a geranium scented sauna and Jacuzzi. A gentle walk downhill from the lobby leads to a large infinity pool with sundeck and lounges overlooking the soft sandy beach. There is also a thatched poolside bar, also popular during the evenings. For more active pursuits, there are tennis courts, a volleyball court and a gym. In addition, guests have complimentary access to kayaks for exploring the local bay area.