The Westin Playa Bonita Panama

Surrounded by forest, the main building of Westin Playa Bonita stands tall above the trees. The wide-open lobby has a warm, polished feel with ivory and gold shades, beautiful textured wallpapers, and modern furnishings. The design incorporates the soothing qualities of nature through plants and beautiful flowers in interesting vases, ocean views through floor to ceiling windows, and leaf-patterned embellishments all around. The hotel has a sophisticated and laid-back atmosphere with many quiet areas where guests can spread out and relax. The range of activities and features appeal to couples and families, and sometimes large groups when events are held in the conference rooms. 

Westin Playa Bonita is on the shore of Panama Bay, just west of the canal entrance. It is surrounded by forests, with nothing to do in the immediate area. It is a 14-minute drive to Biomuseo, a funky museum highlighting the biodiversity of the region. From there, guests can take the Amador Causeway, a narrow road connecting three tiny islands in the bay. A 20- to 30-minute drive will bring guests into Panama City, where there are many restaurants, shops, and historic areas to explore. The Albrook Mall, an upscale mall and one of the largest in the world, is in the city and set a 22-minute drive away. From the hotel, it is a 26-minute drive to the Miraflores Locks, where guests can see ships crossing the canals and visit a museum detailing the history of the locks. It is a 25-minute drive to Albrook International Airport, and 55 minutes to Tocumen International Airport.

Standard rooms are clean and comfortable, with a minimalist design. Earthy tones and wood furniture create a warm atmosphere, and quality materials give rooms a high-end feel. Woven-wood accents appear on the headboard and around window frames, and are also picked up in artwork, wicker chairs, and a woven shade over the bathroom window. A king-size bed or two doubles have Westin signature bedding with pillow-top mattresses, down blankets, and plenty of pillows for a cozy sleep. Some rooms have furnished balconies and some have large, picture windows with lovely views. All rooms have a 40-inch LCD TV and an iron, as well as a minibar, coffeemaker, and iPod dock. Robes, slippers, water, and niceties like a toothbrush, comb, shower cap, and towelettes are included. Bathrooms are sleek and spacious with a glass-walled shower stall and a separate bathtub. A beautiful shingled stone wall picks up the feel of the woven theme from the room. A hairdryer is provided, and free toiletries include soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion.

Upgraded rooms offer options like floor-to ceiling windows, separate living areas, an additional half-bathroom, dining areas, and kitchenettes. An exclusive lounge is available to guests in Executive Club rooms and suites, offering a quiet, relaxing space with a free continental breakfast, separate check-in, and drinks and snacks during the day. 

Westin Playa Bonita offers guests an extensive list of quality offerings for couples and families alike. A range of delicious food options at the five restaurants include choices from salad bars and a casual grill, to elegant steakhouse dining. There are also Asian cuisine, fresh fish and lobster, and themed buffets. All-inclusive dining is available with special kids’ packages, though in the evenings some restaurants are dedicated to adults only. 

Four pools line the back of the property along the beach, each with a beautiful setting. There are islands of palm trees, sunbeds in wading sections, a volleyball net, a whirlpool, and fountains. The main pool includes a swim-up bar. It is a beautiful area with lots of room for guests to spread out and enjoy a quiet rest or participate in activities, as desired. Shaded wicker loungers and cabanas are free, as are fresh towels. The back of the hotel opens onto the beach where there are a few free loungers for those who enjoy the ocean view.

An elegant spa offers a range of treatments and includes a beauty salon, sauna, and steam room. The large fitness room includes ample cardio machines and weight-training equipment in a pleasant, modern space. The kids’ club has fun supervised activities, a spacious and colorful play space, and a small playground. The game room is geared more toward adults with pool, ping-pong, and a poker table. Activities include kayaking, exercise classes, sports, dance, and bonfires. Some rates require a daily charge for Wi-Fi, and the connection tends to be reliable.