Relaxed, scenic, and just far enough off the beaten path, San Carlos is one of Panama’s favorite beachside escapes. Located about 1.5 hours from Panama City, it strikes a nice balance between convenience and tranquility—making it a go-to destination for second-home seekers, retirees, and full-time residents alike.
You’ll find a mix of beach houses, gated communities, and oceanfront condos all surrounded by nature. With its easygoing vibe, walkable beachfront areas, and growing number of amenities, San Carlos is the kind of place where mornings start with a beach walk and end with a sunset barbecue.
Below is a selection of properties in San Carlos. These include turnkey condos with ocean views to private homes with land and space to spread out. If something catches your eye, just fill out the contact form next to the listing and one of our brokers will be in touch within 24 hours. And if you are looking for something specific, feel free to reach out to us directly!
Welcome to The Palms at El Palmar, a relaxed beachfront…
$250,000
Hummingbird Ranch sits at the end of a cul-de-sac in…
$775,000
This luxury beach house for sale in Costa Esmeralda is…
$1,595,000
San Carlos sits comfortably along the Interamericana Highway, about 25 minutes past Coronado and just over an hour from Panama City. The drive is scenic and straightforward, with road improvements continually making it more accessible.
This coastal community offers easy access to shopping and healthcare in nearby Coronado, with all the peace and privacy of a smaller beach town. Whether you’re commuting part-time or transitioning to a full-time beach lifestyle, San Carlos is close enough to the city—but just far enough to feel like a true escape.
San Carlos is best known for its laid-back beach lifestyle and beautiful natural surroundings. Think rolling hills, quiet beaches, and a slower pace of life. It’s home to a mix of local Panamanians, expats, and weekenders, many of whom come to unwind, surf, or enjoy the outdoors.
The real estate landscape in San Carlos includes everything from modest beach cabins to upscale villas and newer gated developments. For those looking to invest, there’s solid long-term potential, especially with infrastructure continuing to improve and demand growing for turnkey homes near the ocean.
Life in San Carlos is about simplicity and connection—with nature, with neighbors, and with a more intentional way of living. Expect to find open-air restaurants, roadside fruit stands, and miles of uncrowded coastline.
Outdoor lovers are right at home here: surfing in Playa El Palmar, hiking in the nearby mountains, fishing, horseback riding—you name it. And with new cafés, yoga studios, and farmers markets slowly popping up, there’s a growing sense of community that’s both welcoming and down to earth.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend retreat, a seasonal rental, or a long-term lease by the beach, San Carlos offers a growing number of rental options. Use the contact form next to each listing and one of our agents will get back to you within 24 hours.
Looking to rent in a quiet, gated community just minutes…
$2,000
Let yourself be enchanted by this cozy condo that has…
$2,400
This spacious 4-bedroom home for rent is perfect for an…
$3,500
San Carlos is for people who want peace, space, and simplicity. It’s a place to unplug and slow down—but still stay connected to modern comforts. It’s not flashy, and that’s exactly the point.
For families seeking a beach lifestyle, retirees ready to trade traffic for tranquility, or investors looking for a slice of coastal Panama with real potential—San Carlos continues to rise quietly and steadily. If you’re after a lifestyle that feels more grounded, this might be just the place to call home.
If you can snatch up a pre-construction condo, you may be eligible for developer financing, which is a big time saver and can be prudent in the long run, depending on how much time you plan on spending in Panama.
For additional insight on buying in Panama, read the Ultimate Guide to Moving to Panama. This is the most comprehensive guide available on moving to Panama…
EnglishOwning a home is a keystone of wealth… both financial affluence and emotional security.
