Hotel Pacific Coast

I only went to the pool, not the rooms. They were giving swimming lessons to kids. The pool was nice, the service pleasant, and the hotel looked clean and well kept. It was an eye-opener.

A really cute hotel if you're after some local culture. The manager was incredibly welcoming and friendly, and even told us about events happening nearby. But the rooms are tiny, and there was no hot water, water pressure, or internet. Since we work remotely, we couldn't stay longer than one night. If you want to disconnect, this could be the place.

Carlos is a terrific host and a really nice guy, and the courtyard with its central pool is attractive. In Panama's hot, humid weather, that pool is a welcome relief day and night. My stay was enjoyable, especially thanks to Carlos, but I paid more than seemed reasonable for the basic setup and location. The biggest limitation is the lack of hot water, so showers are cold. The rooms are small and simple, though clean and comfortable, with terrific, much-needed air conditioning. There's a lively bar attached, but the restaurant didn't seem to be operating at the time. We were visiting family nearby, so the location worked for us. If you're going to Panama City, getting there from here is difficult. The only easy option would be a long, expensive cab ride. Compared with much better located hotels in the city, this one is pricey. One more thing: the hotel used to be called Rocamar. Locals, including taxi drivers, still know it by that name.

A perfect, cheap hotel, just minutes from the city and Panama Pacifico international airport. Good rooms and a large pool inside.