A previously secluded coastal community in Panama is formally opening its doors to visitors. Playa Pixvae, located in the southern Las Palmas District of Veraguas Province, will launch its official tourism season this week. The area’s pristine beaches and dramatic rock formations are transitioning from a local secret to an emerging destination for both national and international travelers seeking adventure.
Residents have long described Pixvae as a hidden paradise. Its growing appeal centers on untouched beaches, natural caves, and a community commitment to sustainable growth. While access requires careful travel, those who make the journey discover a coastline largely undeveloped by mass tourism.
Natural Wonders and Community Preparation
The Pixvae Caves stand as the area’s primary tourist icon. This impressive natural rock formation draws visitors for exploration and photography. Nearby beaches like Playita Blanca and Doña Juana offer quieter alternatives, attracting families and travelers looking for tranquility and direct contact with the sea.
Local infrastructure is developing to welcome more guests. The community currently supports three hostels and four restaurants. Several local operators now provide packaged tours. These packages often include lodging, transportation, meals, and guided excursions tailored to visitor interests.
“The community is betting on ecotourism as the path for its sustainable development,” according to information provided by reporter Ney Castillo. [Translated from Spanish]
Gastronomy serves as another major attraction. Fresh fish and seafood, prepared using traditional local recipes, are staples. Meals highlight the region’s culinary identity with ingredients moving practically from the ocean directly to the skillet.
Launch of the Ninth Ecotourism Fair
Playa Pixvae will formally inaugurate its season from Thursday, January 15 through Sunday, January 18. The centerpiece is the Ninth Playa Pixvae Ecotourism Fair. Organizers designed the event to stimulate the local economy and showcase the area’s full potential.
The fair acts as a showcase for the community’s natural, gastronomic, and cultural offerings. It represents a concerted push to position Pixvae within Panama’s competitive ecotourism landscape. This strategy focuses on controlled growth that preserves the environment residents cherish.
This opening follows broader regional efforts to promote Veraguas as a destination. Authorities continue balancing new tourist interest with the preservation of coastal environments, including recent indications on safety for the Pacific coast. The community’s approach in Pixvae mirrors a national trend toward promoting lesser-known areas.
Success for Pixvae now hinges on managing its newfound popularity. The goal is to grow without sacrificing the natural essence that made it attractive in the first place. Its journey from hidden secret to featured destination enters a new, public chapter this week.

