9 Must-Visit Panama Party Scenes That Outshine Costa Rica & Guatemala
Let me tell you something – Panama’s nightlife is absolutely WILD. I’ve been dragging my tired feet and hangover head through every corner of Central America, and I can honestly say nothing even comes close to experiencing Panama at night. Nothing. Nada. Zip.
Sure, Costa Rica and Guatemala have their cute little attempts at nightlife, but Panama? Panama is playing a whole different game. The Panama City party scene alone is this crazy mashup of cultures that makes for some of the most insane parties you’ll ever experience. One minute you’re grinding to reggaeton beats in one of the best nightclubs in Panama City, the next you’re sipping fancy cocktails at some swanky lounge along Causeway Amador with that perfect ocean breeze.
The best part? You can hit up a fancy rooftop bar, then an underground club, and finish at some crazy after-party all in one night. And these parties don’t just fizzle out at 2am like those other Central American wannabes – they keep pumping until the sun comes up. (Trust me, I’ve watched many sunrises with a drink still in hand.)
Oh and pro tip – despite all this awesomeness, partying in Panama is surprisingly affordable! You won’t need to sell a kidney to have a good time like in Miami or Ibiza. This is perfect for us budget backpackers who still want that unforgettable night out.
Are you ready for an adventure that’ll ruin you for partying anywhere else in Central America? Keep on reading! I’m about to walk you through 9 must-visit spots that make Panama nightlife so damn special.
Casco Viejo: Historic Charm Meets Modern Beats
Walking through Casco Viejo (also known as Casco Antiguo) is like stepping into a freaking time machine. One minute you’re in modern Panama City with all its shiny skyscrapers, the next you’re wandering cobblestone streets surrounded by colonial buildings that are hundreds of years old. But here’s where it gets good – this UNESCO heritage site isn’t just some boring museum. It’s where the real party happens.
What makes Casco Viejo unique
Let me tell you something crazy – this place used to be a straight-up dangerous slum just a few years back. Now? It’s one of the hottest Panama City nightlife districts. Total glow-up story. All those Spanish colonial buildings have been transformed into boutique hotels, hipster apartments, and some seriously wild party spots.
What I love most about this area is how the historic vibes mix with modern party energy. Picture this: you’re dancing to reggaeton beats while surrounded by 16th-century architecture. String lights hanging above ancient plazas while salsa music echoes off walls that have been standing since before your great-great-grandparents were even thought of. You literally can’t find this vibe anywhere else in Central America. Trust me, I’ve looked.
Top party spots in Casco Viejo
There’s something for everyone in this historic party paradise:
Rooftop Experiences:
Tantalo Roofbar – Creative cocktails, those cute stringed lights, and killer skyline views. They do themed nights like Latin Night (Wednesday) and Ladies Night (Thursday)
Selina rooftop Panama – One of my absolute favorites where you can actually sip drinks while sitting IN A POOL or vibe to live salsa. What more could you want?
BarLovento – Amazing views, comfy seating, and hookah if that’s your thing
Dance Venues:
La Tana – This place PUMPS with reggaeton, electronic, and top-40 hits. The dance floor gets absolutely mental after midnight
Casa Jaguar – Bit more upscale but worth dressing up for – great dancing and beautiful people everywhere you look
Teatro Amador – They literally transformed an old theater into a nightclub. The high ceilings and massive dance space make for an epic party setting
Relaxed Options:
La Rana Dorada – Panama’s famous brewery with craft beers at half-price during happy hour (12pm-6pm Monday-Saturday). I practically lived here some afternoons
Pedro Mandinga – First artisanal rum distillery in Panama, right by Plaza Herrera. Their rum cocktails will knock your socks off
Relic Bar – This underground open-roof spot hidden inside Luna’s Castle hostel feels like a secret you’ve been let in on
Best time to visit Casco Viejo
This neighborhood buzzes all week, but each spot has its prime time to shine:
Tuesdays at Tantalo are awesome with their “Artes Martes” events where you can watch artists do their thing while you drink. Wednesdays bring the Latin Night crowds, and Thursday is Ladies Night at Tantalo (hello drink specials!). But real talk – Friday through Sunday is when things get properly wild, with trendy crowds packing in to dance to the latest DJ sets.
If you’re into jazz, hit up Platea on Fridays. Want salsa? Same place on Saturdays. And El Sotano does these epic Ru Paul viewing parties and LGBT-friendly events that are super fun.
Local tips for Casco Viejo nightlife
Listen up, because these insider tips will save you some headaches:
Dress to impress! Seriously, Panama locals don’t mess around when they go out. Flip flops and tank tops won’t cut it at the nicer spots, especially on weekends. Smart casual is the minimum at trendy places, so maybe pack that one “nice” outfit you stuffed in your backpack.
Expect to drop about $5-8 for cocktails at most places. Some clubs will hit you with a $10-20 entrance fee on weekends, but hey, that’s still way cheaper than Ibiza, right? If you’re feeling fancy, table service is available for that VIP experience.
Oh, and don’t worry about safety like you might have a few years ago. The district is super well-lit now with security guards all over, so you can bounce between venues without stressing.
Pro tip: check out the Panama Bar Crawl for $50, which gets you into five different bars with one drink at each spot. Great way to sample the nightlife without having to figure everything out yourself. Plus, instant friends!
Ready to dive in? Casco Viejo might just become your favorite party spot in all of Central America. It definitely was mine.
Bocas del Toro: Panama's Ultimate Island Party
So you’ve done the city thing in Panama City, maybe checked out the historic vibes of Casco Viejo, but now you want something different? Let me introduce you to Bocas del Toro – the absolute KING of tropical island partying. This place is where partying and paradise had a baby, and damn, it’s a beautiful child.
What makes Bocas del Toro special
Let’s be real – Bocas isn’t just another party spot. This place is special because you’re literally partying OVER THE OCEAN. The whole concept of “beach bar” gets turned upside down here since the boundaries between sand, sea, and dance floor basically don’t exist.
One of the coolest things about partying in Bocas? Your night out involves actual boat rides between islands. Like, you finish your drink at one spot, hop on a water taxi (probably with 10 new friends you just made), and zip across moonlit water to the next bar. How freaking cool is that?
The crowd here is nothing like Panama City’s fancy scene. Forget dress codes and VIP sections. In Bocas, you’ll find this wild mix of barefoot backpackers, remote workers with laptops still warm in their bags, and locals who know how to party better than anyone. I met people from literally every continent one night (except Antarctica, but I’m still holding out hope).
And the best part? Many places here are cafés by day and transform into wild party spots at night. I spent one afternoon sipping coffee at this cute little spot, only to return 6 hours later to find the same place PUMPING with reggaeton and people dancing on tables.
Top beach clubs and bars in Bocas
If you’re serious about experiencing the Bocas party scene, don’t miss these spots:
Aqua Lounge – This place is INSANE. It’s built over the water with these holes in the floor where you can just jump straight into the ocean between drinks. Their Sunday Funday parties start at 2PM and I honestly don’t remember how they end because I’ve never made it to the finish line. They have this jumping platform that gets progressively more tempting with each drink you consume.
Selina Bocas del Toro – More than just a place to crash, their waterfront bar is always buzzing. Monday’s open mic night brings out some surprisingly awesome talent (and some hilariously terrible acts too), while their Friday parties blend electronic beats with Caribbean vibes that’ll have you moving till sunrise.
Barco Hundido – Literally “The Sunken Boat” – and yes, it’s built around an actual shipwreck. They have glass floors so you can see fish swimming below while you’re dancing above them. It’s trippy and awesome at the same time.
Toro Loco – This place starts as a chill sports bar but transforms after 10PM. Their signature move is serving tequila shots in carved-out lime halves. Dangerous but delicious.
Best time to party in Bocas del Toro
Bocas operates on its own schedule compared to mainland Panama. December through April brings the wildest crowds, but honestly, this place never truly shuts down. Even in low season, the parties just get a bit more intimate (which can be even better).
Most spots don’t really get going until after 9PM, but the real magic happens after midnight. Unlike the city clubs with strict closing times, bars here stay open until people stop drinking – which often means 4 or 5AM. I’ve literally watched bartenders fall asleep while still technically “open.”
If you can time your visit right, try to hit:
February’s Carnival (absolutely bonkers)
The Film Festival in June (party with artsy film people)
Any full moon party (these transform random beaches into all-night raves)
Where to stay in Bocas
Your accommodation choice can make or break your party experience here:
Selina Bocas del Toro is the obvious choice if you want to stumble directly from bar to bed. Their dorms start at $15/night, or get a private room for $50-80 if you need recovery space.
Bambuda Lodge on Isla Solarte runs their own water taxis, plus their infinity pool parties are legendary. It’s slightly removed from the main strip but worth it.
For the bougie party people (like me on the rare occasion when my bank account isn’t crying), Punta Caracol Acqua Lodge has these stunning overwater bungalows starting around $300/night. Perfect for recovering in style while still hearing the distant thump of bass across the water.
Broke backpackers should check out Hospedaje Turístico Heike – clean rooms from $25/night within stumbling distance of the main party zone.
Pro tip: stay on Isla Colón (the main island) for easiest access to most venues. Though the water taxis run all night for island-hopping adventures, it’s nice knowing your bed isn’t a boat ride away when you’re ready to crash.
More In Panama
Calle Uruguay: The Heart of Panama City Nightlife
Looking for the beating heart of Panama City’s nightlife? Calle Uruguay is where it’s AT. This street is basically the unofficial headquarters of after-dark shenanigans in Panama City. I stumbled across this party paradise completely by accident during my third night in Panama, and wow – what a find!
Why Calle Uruguay is a nightlife hub
Calle Uruguay has earned its rep as “the heart of the mini-bars in Panama” for good reason. First off, it’s super conveniently located near all those fancy business districts, which means after 5pm, you’ll see suits transforming into party animals faster than Superman in a phone booth.
One thing I absolutely LOVED about partying here was the safety factor. They’ve got cops stationed at practically every corner, which means you can get absolutely hammered without that nagging voice in your head worrying about getting mugged. (Not that I’m recommending you get blackout drunk… but let’s be honest, it happens.)
The best part? There are so many Calle Uruguay bars crammed into this one area that you can bounce between spots all night long without ever getting bored. As someone who gets bored easily (like me), this is basically paradise.
Best clubs and lounges in Calle Uruguay
Alright, let me walk you through my favorite spots to get wasted on this magical street:
The Londoner – Perfect if you’re looking for something chill to kick off your night. They’ve got this English pub vibe going on with some seriously good deep-fried munchies and a pool table. Great spot even on those typically dead Mondays and Tuesdays.
Prive – Okay this place is FANCY. Definitely attracts that 25-35 year old “I have money and want you to know it” crowd. The first floor is all elegant and proper, but head upstairs and things get way more relaxed. Their second floor deck has killer views and gives your ears a break from the thumping music inside.
S6IS (it’s pronounced “seis” – don’t embarrass yourself like I did) – This place sits right above Prive and specializes in electronic music. It’s mostly standing room which basically forces you to mingle. I met some wild Argentinians here who ended up becoming my travel buddies for the next week.
Mystik – Dark, moody vibes and a dance floor that’s just the right size. They’ve also got these comfy lounge areas where you can collapse when your feet start hating you.
Moods – Recently got a facelift and now pumps out reggaeton and Latin music that’ll have your hips moving whether you want them to or not. Sometimes they have cover bands too.
Crowd and music scene in Calle Uruguay
The crowd here is definitely younger and consists mostly of trendy locals and tourists who are “there to be seen”. Don’t even bother showing up before 10 PM – you’ll be drinking alone like a sad tourist. The real action doesn’t kick off until way later and keeps going until the sun comes up.
Music-wise, you’ve got options. S6IS will satisfy your electronic cravings, while Moods is all about that reggaeton and Latin rhythm. Honestly, I didn’t think I was into reggaeton until I spent a night here – something about those beats just gets into your blood after a few drinks!
One important thing – DRESS UP! This isn’t your typical backpacker scene where flip flops and tank tops fly. The locals put effort into their appearance, and many places won’t even let you in if you’re dressed like you just rolled out of a hostel dorm. I learned this the hard way when I got turned away from Prive wearing my “nice” shorts (apparently nice shorts aren’t a thing here).
As for prices, beers will set you back about $4-6 while cocktails range from $10-15. Club entry fees usually run $10-20, though ladies often get discounts or free entry before 11 PM. Judge for yourself if you wanna pay up or pre-game hard at your hostel first!
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Causeway Amador: Ocean Views and Open-Air Vibes
Looking for something a bit different from your typical Panama party scene? The Amador Causeway is literally this thin ribbon of road stretching out into the Pacific Ocean, and it’s absolutely gorgeous for nightlife. They built this 6-kilometer path using rocks dug up during the Panama Canal construction, connecting Panama City to these little islands: Naos, Perico, and Flamenco. Trust me when I say the combo of ocean breeze, city lights, and open-air bars creates a vibe you won’t find anywhere else.
What to expect at Causeway Amador
This spot is way more chill than the crazy energy of Calle Uruguay or the historic vibes of Casco Viejo. The Causeway used to be some military base called Fort Grant (later Fort Amador), but now it’s packed with restaurants, shops, and places to grab a drink.
What makes partying here so cool is that it’s like this perfect mix of outdoor stuff and nightlife. During the day, you’ll see locals jogging and biking along the sidewalks next to the Panama Canal (which is pretty damn impressive, btw). Then as the sun starts to set, the whole place transforms into this sophisticated drinking spot with views that’ll make your Instagram followers hate you.
The locals call these “tranquil spots for evening cocktails with friends,” which is fancy-person talk for “chill places to get buzzed.” If you want something with more energy, check out Zona Viva (they used to call it “Zona de la Rumba”). That area mostly attracts locals, which is always a good sign.
Top venues with ocean views
Kayuco is hands-down my favorite open-air spot here. It’s tucked into this corner of Flamenco Island marina where you can literally drink right by the water. The view is insane – boats bobbing in the foreground with Panama City’s skyline lighting up behind them. They serve these amazing fried seafood platters that are perfect for sharing (or not sharing, if you’re like me).
Traffic Island sounds like a weird name, but their mojitos are ridiculous. Sitting on their terrace with the city spread out across the water while salsa music plays… it’s one of those travel moments you remember forever.
Some other solid options:
Beirut – Lebanese food that’s perfect for lining your stomach before a night of drinking
Fuego – Grab a table overlooking the marina if you can. The sunset views are unreal.
Those random Italian gelato shops – Perfect for a 2am sugar fix or a break between bars
Best time to visit Causeway Amador
If you want to do this right, get there around 6:00 pm for sunset. The sun drops behind the mountains to the west, lighting up the Canal ships and making the whole bay sparkle. Panama sunsets only last about 23 minutes (I timed it once because I’m weird like that), so don’t be late!
Weekends are obviously busier, which means better people-watching but more competition for those prime ocean-view tables. If you’re visiting during the crazy hot months, either go early morning or wait until after sunset – nothing kills a buzz faster than sweating through your nice going-out clothes.
Playa Venao: Surf by Day, Party by Night
Playa Venao is hands down one of the coolest spots in Panama that nobody’s really talking about. This horseshoe-shaped bay along Panama’s Pacific coast is like two completely different worlds depending on what time you visit. During the day? Total surfer’s paradise. But once the sun starts to dip? The whole beach transforms into this wild beachfront party where nobody gives a damn about wearing shoes and the soundtrack to your night is literally crashing waves mixed with thumping beats.
Why Playa Venao is a party hotspot
Let me tell you why this place rocks as a party spot. First off, it’s got this wicked mix of people. The beach attracts all these young remote workers and expats from literally everywhere – Canada, Argentina, Israel, you name it. There’s like 350 full-time residents who’ve created this tight little international community that knows how to throw down.
What’s super awesome is how naturally the vibe shifts from day to night. I remember sitting on the beach one afternoon watching surfers do their thing, then suddenly noticing the sun setting, and boom – beach bonfires getting lit, speakers coming out, and everyone who was surfing earlier is now dancing with a beer in hand. It’s this perfect mix of laid-back but still super fun energy that you just don’t find in the city.
Top beach parties in Playa Venao
Selina Hostel is where the real action happens. No joke, their Saturday night parties are legendary – people actually call them “the best beach party in Panama”. I’ve seen folks make the trek all the way from Panama City just for these parties. The hostel’s not just a one-night wonder either – they’ve got live music throughout the week, a massive bar area, and you can play pool while paying way less for drinks than you would in the city.
If you’re like me and sometimes need a break from the younger backpacker crowd, La Barca Beach Club is your jam. It’s right on the sand inside Surf Dojo, perfect for grabbing a cold beer or mojito while just chilling on the beach. One guy I met described it perfectly: “you are away from the selinas where it is full of young people”. Not that there’s anything wrong with that scene, but sometimes you want something a bit different, you know?
For those nights when you’re nursing a hangover but still want to socialize, hit up El Sitio restaurant and bar. The place overlooks the best surf breaks, and you can just sink into these comfy beach sofas with a Panama beer and watch the sunset. Honestly, I spent three nights in a row doing exactly this and regret nothing.
Where to stay in Playa Venao
If you want to be where the action is, just stay at Selina Playa Venao. I mean, why walk home when you can just stumble upstairs? Plus, they’ve got everything – dorms if you’re broke like me, private rooms if you’re not, restaurants, volleyball, yoga, co-working (for those pretending to work while partying), and even a pool. Perfect for recovering the morning after.
I personally preferred Beach Break Hotel and Surf Camp though. It hits that sweet spot where you can party when you want but also get some actual sleep when needed. Their beachfront bar is social enough without being a total rager every night. Sometimes you need a night off, right?
If you’ve got money to burn (unlike me), El Sitio Hotel is the fancy option. Nice rooms right on the beach, good restaurant, and their outdoor bar still gets lively at night without being overwhelming. But let’s be real, most of us are heading to Selina anyway once the serious partying starts.
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Boquete: Laidback Nights in the Highlands
Alright, when you’ve blown out your eardrums and danced yourself into a sweaty mess at Panama’s coastal and city parties, Boquete is where you go to actually remember what your own thoughts sound like. This mountain town nestled among coffee plantations is like the chill older brother of Panama’s party scene – still fun, but with way better taste and an earlier bedtime.
Boquete’s unique nightlife vibe
This isn’t your “shots-shots-shots” kinda place. Boquete’s party vibe is more like “let’s-actually-talk-and-taste-this-drink.” You won’t find massive sweaty dance floors here – instead, you’ll discover cozy little spots where you can actually hear the person next to you without them screaming in your ear.
The mountain air hits different too – crisp and cool instead of that sticky coastal humidity that glues your clothes to your back. And at night? The stars up here are INSANE. No light pollution means you’re getting a celestial show that beats any nightclub laser display.
Oh, and since half the town seems to be expats, you’ll hear English everywhere. Good news for when your Spanish skills mysteriously deteriorate after the second beer. (Like mine always do.)
Best bars and lounges in Boquete
Mike’s Global Grill is where everyone ends up at some point. The food is killer, the drinks flow freely, and they have live music that doesn’t make your ears bleed. Perfect spot to actually meet people instead of just grinding on them in a dark corner.
Boquete Brewing Company is beer heaven for craft brew snobs. These guys make their own stuff right here in the mountains, and I swear the altitude makes it taste better. Or maybe that’s just what they tell tourists, who knows.
If you’re feeling fancy (or trying to impress someone), the bar at Hotel Panamonte has this gorgeous garden terrace with a fireplace for when it gets chilly. Nothing says “I’m sophisticated” like sipping cocktails by a fire.
Other spots worth checking out:
Bamboo Restaurant & Bar – They do this crazy fusion of local ingredients with international dishes
Taboo – When you do want to dance a little in Bajo Boquete
The Rock Boquete – It’s got this weird “rock n’ roll” thing going on, but the Saturday night music is pretty great
Tips for enjoying Boquete at night
Here’s the thing about Boquete that threw me off – everything shuts down by like 11 PM. No joke. These mountain folks don’t mess around with their sleep schedules. So start your night EARLY if you want to actually experience anything.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during their annual Jazz Festival, DO IT. The whole town transforms with live performances everywhere, and it’s probably the latest everyone stays up all year.
My perfect Boquete night? Dinner at one of the nice restaurants in town, then over to Mike’s for some live music, and finish off with sampling craft beers at Boquete Brewing Company. Done by 11, in bed by midnight, and not a single regret the next morning when you can actually enjoy the mountain views instead of hiding from the sun with a hangover.
Honestly, Boquete’s charm is that it’s NOT trying to be the next big party destination. It’s the perfect breather between your wilder Panama adventures. Sometimes it’s nice to remember what your liver feels like when it’s not actively plotting your demise.
San Felipe: Underground and Artsy Nightlife
You know those hidden gems that every traveler dreams of finding? The ones that aren’t plastered all over Instagram yet? Well, San Felipe is that secret spot in Panama that most tourists completely miss while they’re busy taking selfies in the more famous parts of Casco Viejo. But let me tell you – this little neighborhood is where the REAL panama party magic happens.
What makes San Felipe nightlife different
I stumbled into San Felipe completely by accident one night (got lost looking for a bathroom, if we’re being honest) and immediately felt like I’d discovered Panama’s beating artistic heart. While the tourist-packed plazas in Casco Viejo were doing their thing, just a few blocks away these colonial buildings were hiding the coolest speakeasies and basement venues you could imagine.
What I love most about this area is how genuinely artistic it feels. The music bouncing off those centuries-old walls just hits different, ya know? You’re not just getting drunk in some generic club – you’re having a cultural experience! (At least that’s what I told myself after my fifth rum cocktail.)
The crowd here is nothing like what you’ll find in the more commercial spots. Think local artists, musicians, poets, and travelers who actually read guidebooks instead of just following TikTok trends. It’s intimate, it’s authentic, and it’s where people actually TALK to each other instead of just posing for photos.
Best hidden spots in San Felipe
Finding the best spots in San Felipe is half the fun, but I’ll save you some time with my favorites:
CasaCasco is hidden in this gorgeous colonial mansion – exactly where you’d expect rich people from 200 years ago to party, except now it’s full of hipsters drinking craft cocktails. I nearly walked past it three times before figuring out how to get in (part of its charm, I guess?).
La Septima blew my mind with its basement setting and incredible local DJs. The music here is INSANE – everything from traditional Panamanian rhythms to cutting-edge beats you’d expect in Berlin or something.
There are also these tiny little underground bars scattered throughout the neighborhood where drinks are surprisingly affordable. One bartender told me they keep prices reasonable because they “prefer conversations over credit cards” – how’s that for authentic?
Safety tips for San Felipe at night
Look, I had one of the best nights of my life in San Felipe, but I’ve gotta be straight with you – it’s not Disneyland. You need to be street smart:
Stick to the well-lit streets where other humans exist
Maybe don’t flash your brand new iPhone around like it’s a lightsaber
I used Uber instead of random taxis and lived to tell the tale
Don’t wander down dark alleys alone at 3am (learned this one the hard way)
Let your hostel know where you’re headed – my receptionist actually gave me the best tips!
Pace yourself with drinks – being the drunkest person in an unfamiliar neighborhood is never a good look
Make friends! I met this cool Panamanian couple who showed me around and it made the night so much better
San Felipe gave me that rare authentic experience that most people miss when they party in Panama. If you’re tired of places that feel designed for tourists and want to see where the creative locals actually hang out, this is your spot. Just be smart about it, and you’ll have stories to tell that don’t involve the same bars everyone else posts about.
Panama City Rooftops: Party Above the Skyline
Okay, let’s talk about getting HIGH in Panama City. (And I’m talking about elevation here, folks.) There’s honestly nothing that compares to sipping on some fancy cocktail while staring out at the twinkling city lights below you. Panama City’s rooftop scene is where tropical vibes meet big-city energy, and it’s absolutely magical.
Top rooftop bars in Panama City
I’ve stumbled up (and sometimes stumbled down) the stairs of pretty much every rooftop spot worth visiting, and these are the absolute must-dos:
Tantalo Roofbar in Casco Viejo was basically the OG of the rooftop scene here. They’ve got these amazing passion fruit mojitos that will knock your socks off, hipster stringed lights everywhere, and a view that’ll make your Instagram followers hate you. They do themed nights that are pretty cool – Tuesdays have this live art thing going on, and Wednesdays get all Latin and steamy.
Panaviera is where you go when you want to feel fancy AF. It’s way up on the 66th floor of Ocean Sun Casino, and holy crap, the sunset from up there will make you question all your life choices that didn’t involve being in Panama sooner. They’ve got this infinity pool that looks like it just pours right into the city below. I didn’t swim in it though because I’m a sleazy scumbag that does everything as dirt cheap as possible and definitely didn’t pay for pool access.
Lazotea is technically not that high up (only four floors) but sometimes it’s not about size, it’s about how you use it, right? This place mixes industrial vibes with tropical stuff, and you can see both the ocean AND the city. Two-for-one views, baby!
Casa Casco is like a party layer cake with the best frosting (the rooftop) on top. You can literally do a full 360° turn and see both old-school Casco Viejo and the modern skyscrapers. It’s like a before-and-after photo of Panama right in front of your eyes.
Best time to enjoy rooftop nightlife
Panama’s weather is pretty much perfect year-round for rooftop drinking (thanks, Mother Nature!). If you want the full experience, get to Panaviera around 5pm to catch that golden hour magic as the sun drops behind the hills. Trust me, it’s worth ordering an overpriced cocktail just for that view.
After dark is when things really kick off though. DJs usually start spinning around 9pm, and that’s when I’ve found the best vibe – not too crowded yet, but enough people to create some energy.
Crowd and music at rooftop venues
The people you’ll meet at these sky-high spots are definitely a cut above the usual backpacker crowd (sometimes literally looking down on them, ha!). Selina rooftop pulls in what locals call “the cool kids of Panama City” – think digital nomads with actual jobs, fashion-forward locals, and travelers who packed more than just tank tops.
Most of these places cycle through different music throughout the week – some nights you’ll catch live salsa that’ll make you wish you took dance lessons, other nights there’s chill acoustic sets, and sometimes there’s electronic DJs that keep the energy pumping till late.
Don’t worry about the language barrier up here either – these spots are so international that you’ll hear English, Spanish, and probably five other languages just waiting in line for the bathroom.
Ready to dive in? <- This is a pun because they have pools at some of these rooftops. Get it? I’m hilarious.
Filthy Friday: Panama's Wildest Island Crawl
Let me tell you about Filthy Friday – this isn’t just another boozy pub crawl, it’s THE legendary party experience that puts Bocas del Toro on the map. I’ve been to a lot of parties in my travels, but nothing quite compares to hopping between islands with hundreds of other wild backpackers looking to lose their minds for a day.
What is Filthy Friday?
Filthy Friday is exactly what it sounds like – getting absolutely filthy (drunk) on a Friday. But the genius part? You’re doing it while island-hopping across Bocas del Toro. Every Friday, party animals pile onto boats to hit three different islands, each with its own vibe. You start at Blue Coconut on Isla Solarte, then boat over to Aqua Lounge on Isla Carenero, and end the official madness at Filthy’s Bar on Isla Colón.
It all started as a way to connect partygoers scattered across the islands, but now it’s this insane weekly tradition that everyone talks about. The music is pumping, people are dancing (often terribly after a few drinks), and there’s nothing quite like jumping into crystal-clear Caribbean waters between shots. Let’s not kid ourselves, you’ll be up for at least 24 hours if you do this right.
How to join the Filthy Friday party
Jumping on this party train is super easy:
Tickets run about $35, which gets you boat transport between all islands, welcome drinks at each stop, and even professional photographers to capture you at your most “memorable” state (whether you want to remember it or not). You can grab tickets from pretty much any hostel in Bocas Town or online if you’re the planning type.
The chaos kicks off at 11:30 AM with boarding at Blue Coconut. You get about two hours at each spot, with the “official” end around 7:30 PM – but c’mon, we all know the real party’s just getting started then. The after-parties go until… well, until nobody’s left standing.
Tips for first-timers
If this is your first rodeo at Filthy Friday (you poor innocent soul), here’s what you need to know:
Definitely wear your swimsuit under your clothes – you WILL end up in the water, whether you plan to or not
Bring extra cash for drinks beyond the welcome ones (trust me, you’ll want more)
Slap on waterproof sunscreen unless you want to look like a lobster the next day
Don’t be that person who misses the boat – they WILL leave without you
Stay on Isla Colón unless you fancy a wobbly water taxi ride at 3 AM
Oh, and hydrate between drinks unless you want the worst hangover of your life. Seriously, the Caribbean sun plus constant drinking is a recipe for disaster the next day.
Also, book your accommodation in advance. Bocas gets packed, especially during high season, and nothing ruins a good party buzz like having nowhere to crash afterward.
Did you survive Filthy Friday? Let us know your wildest stories in the comments!
Did You Survive Panama?
What’s your party style? Are you a barefoot beach party person or more of a cocktails-with-a-view type? Honestly, I’d recommend trying them all if you have the time (and liver capacity). Each spot has its own unique vibe, and mixing it up keeps things interesting.
Oh, and pro tip – you might notice Selina properties showing up in multiple locations. Those folks know how to party, so if you’re ever stuck wondering where to go, just find the nearest Selina and you’ll probably have a good time. (No, they’re not paying me to say this, I just partied at their spots A LOT during my Panama trip.)
Ready to plan your party circuit through Panama? Let’s wrap this up!
Let’s be real – Panama has completely ruined me for partying anywhere else in Central America. Costa Rica and Guatemala might have their little moments, but they’re just not in the same league as Panama.
After dragging myself (often hungover) through all these incredible nightlife spots, I’ve seen firsthand how Panama mixes tropical paradise vibes with city sophistication in a way that just hits different. Each spot has its own unique personality – from dancing on cobblestone streets in Casco Viejo to literally partying over the water in Bocas del Toro (where I almost lost my phone jumping off that platform at Aqua Lounge, by the way).
What makes Panama so freaking special is how you can completely change your party vibe just by hopping to a different spot. Feeling like a beach party with sand between your toes? Head to Playa Venao. Want to sip fancy drinks above the skyline? Panama City’s rooftops have got you covered. The mix of international people means you’ll hear like five different languages on any dance floor – try finding that in sleepy Costa Rican beach towns!
The best part? You don’t need to be rich to have a good time here. Budget backpackers can rage at hostel parties in Bocas del Toro, while those with a bit more cash to splash can go fancy at spots along Calle Uruguay. Panamanians are some of the friendliest party hosts you’ll ever meet too.
Oh, and you know what’s awesome about partying in Panama? You can actually enjoy yourself without constantly looking over your shoulder. Places like Calle Uruguay have security everywhere, so you can focus on what matters – having the time of your life!
Before you book those tickets though, think about what kind of partier you are. City vibes? Hit up Panama City. Beach bum? Bocas or Playa Venao is calling your name. More into chilled beers and good conversation? Boquete’s highland charm will be your jam.
After all my wild nights (and painful mornings) across Panama, I’m completely convinced these nine spots blow anywhere else in Central America out of the water for partying. So, which one are you hitting first? Your liver might hate you, but I promise the rest of you will thank me later.
FAQs
Q1. What makes Panama’s nightlife unique compared to other Central American countries? Panama’s nightlife stands out for its diversity, ranging from sophisticated rooftop bars in Panama City to laid-back beach parties in Bocas del Toro. The country offers a cosmopolitan party scene that reflects its position as a cultural crossroads, with options for every type of partygoer.
Q2. Where are the best places to experience Panama’s party scene? Some of the top party destinations in Panama include Casco Viejo for its historic charm and modern beats, Bocas del Toro for island-hopping adventures, Calle Uruguay for urban nightlife, and Playa Venao for surf and beach parties. Each location offers a unique atmosphere and experience.
Q3. Is Panama’s nightlife safe for tourists? Generally, Panama’s nightlife is considered safe for tourists, especially in popular areas. Many districts, like Calle Uruguay, have dedicated security personnel. However, as with any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions, particularly in less touristy areas.
Q4. What should I expect to pay for drinks and club entry in Panama? Prices vary depending on the location and venue, but generally, you can expect to pay around $4-8 for beers and $10-15 for cocktails in most bars. Club entry fees typically range from $10-20, with some venues offering reduced or free entry before 11 PM, especially for women.
Q5. What’s the dress code like for Panama’s nightlife? Dress codes can vary depending on the venue and area. In upscale areas like Calle Uruguay and some parts of Panama City, smart casual is often the minimum requirement, especially on weekends. However, in more laid-back areas like Bocas del Toro, the dress code is much more relaxed, with beachwear often acceptable.
