Las Lajas Beach Resort

The food and service were both great, and the location right on the beach was perfect. Panama City Tours picked a good spot for all 33 of us.

We spent one night and had a good stay. The price seemed reasonable for a decent room, a nice hangout area, a pool, and such easy beach access. The windows opened onto the main walkway, though, so we didn't feel comfortable opening the blinds. We ate at the restaurant twice and thought it was pretty good. I was a little disappointed by my "Panamanian dinner": they swapped beans in for refried beans and plantains for cucumbers, so it didn't feel very Panamanian anymore. My daughter loved her chicken tacos, and I enjoyed the Mouse de Maracuyá we shared for dessert, since I love passion fruit. One unexpected charge when we arrived took the stay from five stars to four and slightly soured things. Friends had driven us from the David area and wanted a couple of hours to swim before leaving. We were told it cost $13.75 per person to walk through the resort to the ocean, even though they were my ride and I had three extra sleeping spaces in the room, which sleeps five and had only two of us. I understand the policy, but it annoyed me, and I didn't want to ask my friends to park somewhere else. I wish they'd been more flexible. To get back to the highway, you'll need a taxi, and we then waited two hours for a bus to Panama City.

The rooms are older, but they're roomy and clean. The price is good for the lovely setting and service. The food is awesome, the beach is spectacular, and the service is top notch!

We stopped by for lunch and a walk along the beach, but didn't stay overnight. The grounds were attractive, the pool was nice, and the staff made us feel very welcome. I'd definitely come back for a weekend stay.