Living in Nueva Gorgona: Beachfront Lifestyle in Panama

Beachfront living doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. At least not if you’re living in Panama!

Several coastal towns in Panama offer oceanfront living with spectacular views at reasonable prices. And their relaxed way of life is great for health and well-being.

If that’s what you’re after, check out:

Nueva Gorgona (Panama Oeste Province)

Nueva Gorgona is just 5-10 minutes east of the town of Coronado. It’s about an hour and a half from Panama City and about 40 minutes from Rio Hato International Airport, which offers non-stop charter flights from Canada.

The beach towns in this region are popular among expats of all age groups. They are not just for expats retiring in Panama.

The lifestyle in Nueva Gorgona is very laid back. The best part is that you can find affordable, top-notch condos with magnificent ocean views.

Gorgona prices are about 20% less than Coronado on rentals and houses for sale.

The town has some stores and a medical clinic for your basic needs. For everything else, Coronado is just next door.

Population in Nueva Gorgona

The estimated population is over 5,000 .

Most residents here are Panamanians. But there is an expat community in the San Carlos-Nueva Gorgona-Coronado area.

You can get to know others fairly easily because the community is small.

Climate in Nueva Gorgona

The region has a tropical climate that’s ideal for beachgoers.

The average temperatures are around 79-82F all year long, with daytime maximums of 85-89F .

It rains from April to December, and October gets the most rainfall. But the region doesn’t often get heavy rains. So, you can be outdoors almost every day.

Cost of living in Nueva Gorgona

Nueva Gorgona offers great value for money, especially on rentals:

(Source: Info from our clients)

Rent

2-bedroom, 2-bath, furnished, with ocean views, rooftop pool, gym, and beach access – $1,400 per month.

Condos in the area with the above facilities rent for around $1,000-2,000 per month, including several utilities. They are usually well-furnished and decorated.

Snowbirds, mostly from Canada, come down between December – April, so it’s harder to find a rental then. For rentals of less than six months, AirBnB is usually your best source.

For rentals for six months or more, see the list of recommended real estate agents in the Online Complete Panama Relocation Guide.

Utilities

Average monthly rates for two:

• Water and trash services – $10-20
• Electricity – around $40-$100 for a 2-bedroom condo (varies based on AC usage)
• Gas – $10
• Internet – $50

Eating out

Nueva Gorgona has some restaurants with local and other food. Due to the town’s location, you’ll find plenty of seafood here.

Check out La Ruina for real Panamanian food at reasonable prices. For some pizza, visit Pizzeria Restaurante Torito’s.

Go to Coronado for more restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

Groceries

You’ll likely spend about $400 a month on groceries for two.

Nueva Gorgona has some grocery stores, a bakery, and stalls selling fresh produce and other items at affordable prices.

You can also buy fresh seafood at great prices. For example, two adults can use $10 worth of fish for about five meals.

Coronado has more stores and larger supermarkets. Some expats also make bulk shopping trips to Price Smart in Costa Verde, about an hour away.

Getting around

A car is very useful. But the area has public transport and taxis.

• Local bus to Panama City: Less than $5
• Taxi to Panama City: Around $30

Remember, you may have to call and book taxis in advance, like in most small towns.

In total,

A couple can expect to spend about $2,000 a month to live in Nueva Gorgona unless they rent on the higher end.

Healthcare in Nueva Gorgona

The town has a clinic for basic medical needs. Coronado has more comprehensive medical facilities and English-speaking doctors. You can also easily visit Panama City.

Many foreigners keen to retire in Panama ask us about the healthcare costs. The healthcare in Panama is very affordable compared to the same services in the U.S. Expat Alicia, who stayed in the Penonome hospital for 16 days, says her total bill was less than $1,300. She was very happy with the level of care.

Watch the video of Alicia and Jerry to hear about their healthcare experience and for insights into living in Nueva Gorgona.

Lifestyle and culture in Nueva Gorgona

Remember, Nueva Gorgona is an ideal destination only if you love a slow and relaxed lifestyle because life here is truly laidback.

The town’s residents are extremely friendly and helpful. But you’ll need to learn some Spanish to get to know them better. The expat community is also close and helpful. And they have get-togethers and activities that you can join.

Nueva Gorgona has beautiful and quiet beaches that are great for relaxing. Depending on the day, you might get a beach all to yourself. The region is also popular for surfing, fishing, and other water sports. Playa Malibú is a well-known surfing spot.

You can also hike, take long walks in nature, enjoy waterfalls, and visit nearby towns and communities. Check out Picacho Mountain by a beautiful lagoon, about 45 minutes away, that’s great for hiking.

Safety

Most expats feel safe in Nueva Gorgona and the surrounding areas. But there’s always a chance of petty crime. So, be aware.

If you live in a condo with security, you’ll have extra protection.

Plan your move to Panama (and Nueva Gorgona)

Does Nueva Gorgona sound like a great place to retire in Panama?
Many expats living here will agree with you!

But I urge you to visit different areas in Panama before packing your bags.

Here are 3 ways we can help you fast-track your move to Panama:

• Use the info in our Online Complete Panama Relocation Guide to plan a self-guided tour. This guide also covers everything must know about relocating to Panama and includes various service providers’ contacts. You’ll also get access to our private Facebook community, which is a great way to learn from others.

If organizing a scouting trip sound too complicated,

• Take one of our all-inclusive 6-day/7-night Panama Relocation Tours. You’ll visit Nueva Gorgona, San Carlos, Coronado, and many other places. You can see the lifestyle and the amenities in different areas and even meet some expats.

• Take a fully customized 2-3-day Private Tour of Nueva Gorgona, San Carlos, Coronado, and the surroundings. These tours will focus on answering all your questions. And your relocation guide will share all the must-know information about living in Panama.