Pixvae is a small fishing village on Panama’s Pacific coast, renowned for its incredible marine life and pristine waters, making it a sought-after destination for divers. Founded in the early 20th century, Pixvae has evolved into a popular hub for scuba diving and snorkeling due to its proximity to the protected Coiba National Park. Divers flock to Pixvae to explore its diverse underwater ecosystem, including sharks, rays, dolphins, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs.
In recent years, Pixvae has become a beacon of sustainable tourism, promoting the preservation of its natural beauty and biodiversity. The local community plays an active role in the conservation efforts, ensuring that the area remains pristine for future generations to enjoy. As a result, Pixvae has transformed into a haven for divers seeking unparalleled experiences. Its crystal-clear waters and thriving marine life make it a true paradise for underwater enthusiasts, offering a variety of dive sites suitable for divers of all skill levels.
Pixvae is an ideal base for exploring the underwater wonders of Coiba and Contreras. The village provides convenient access to numerous dive sites showcasing a variety of marine species, from colorful tropical fish to majestic sharks and rays. Additionally, visitors can enjoy activities like beach exploration, snorkeling, kayaking, and mangrove forest tours. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot monkeys, birds, and sea turtles in the area.
Beyond its diving opportunities, Pixvae charms visitors with its tranquil atmosphere, authentic village setting, and delectable local cuisine served in its restaurants. Immersion in the local culture and way of life adds to the overall experience.
In summary, Pixvae offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation for divers seeking an unforgettable experience. With its stunning surroundings, diverse activities, and welcoming community, Pixvae is a gateway to the underwater wonders of Coiba and the Archipelago of Contreras.
Starting from Panama, you can embark on an enjoyable journey along the Interamericana highway towards Santiago de Veraguas. In case you don’t have access to a GPS device, it would be advisable to seek directions for joining Route 4, which heads towards Soná. Upon reaching Soná, you continue straight on the main street until you can turn left heading to a football stadium, then continue straight to Pixvae. The overall duration of this excursion typically amounts to approximately six hours.
We are available on WAZE and Google Maps!
For an efficient journey, it is recommended to catch an early morning bus from Albrook Bus Station in Panama (preferably before 6 AM) heading to Soná. The bus ride typically takes around five and a half hours and costs $9.65.
Upon reaching Soná, you have the option of continuing your travel to Pixvae by either taking a Taxi or by taking the Chiva (a 4×4 Landcruiser). The duration of this leg of the journey is approximately one hour, with a fare of $6.95.
It’s important to note that there is only one bus (Chiva) departing from Soná to Pixvae, and it typically leaves around 12:30 PM. In the event of missing this bus, your alternatives would be either hiring a taxi or staying in Soná until the following day.
We offer private transportation from Sona and Santiago to Pixvae with our private transfer service. We provide convenient pick-up from the terminal and offer secure parking in Sona for your vehicle. Please contact us to know more about this option.




Located in a calm village, this centrally situated hostel offers a tranquil escape. With two floors and nine rooms, it provides a cozy retreat just steps from the beach. Embracing the serenity of its surroundings, guests can unwind and relax. Whether exploring the sandy shores or savoring local delicacies, this hostel is an ideal coastal getaway.
Discover one of the two centrally located hostel in this calm village. Nestled in the heart of this peaceful retreat, the two-story accommodation offers a serene escape. Experience the perfect balance between convenience and tranquility, with local attractions just a stone’s throw away. Rent the entire house for a private and exclusive stay, ideal for larger groups or families. Immerse yourself in the charm of this village.












Unique Find: The Only Private House Rental in Pixvae
Sonia’s Place is the only private rental in the peaceful fishing village of Pixvae, barely on the tourist map. Expect white sand beaches, horseback traffic and a very authentic experience.
At Sonia’s Place the beach is your front yard. The building is brand new, and the living space is second story to capture a perfect coastal view and collect the ocean breezes. With two little bed rooms, 1 bathroom, and a kitchen expect a simple beach house. There is plenty of covered outdoor space to protect you from the mid-day sun, kayaks to use free of charge and a motor boat and captain on call.
The absolute best experience! - I have lived in Panama for almost 13 years and have been to Pixvae and with Kevan Mantell several times. It never gets old or boring.
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This trip is only for experienced travelers who are looking for adventure. If you're boring and need the comforts of an air conditioned hotel with animals in cages then this isn't the place for you. Go to Disney.
I have traveled here with friends, husband and my 3 kids ranging in age from 6-16 years old several times. From Sona to Pixvae, it's 2 hours on a rough gravel road. A strong SUV is necessary, some snacks, a beer or 2 and a love of adventure. It's up and down, curvy, through creeks, waving to the locals on horseback, waiting for the cows to move, watching the butterflies float past the car, listening to the howlers in the distance. Pretty boring right?
This past weekend was the best to the point that my now 7 year old asked why we kept stopping to watch all the Humpback whales. From the boat we saw more whale than we could count, jumping dolphin and jumping rays, sea turtles, flying fish, other jumping fish. Snorkeling we saw sea turtles, white tipped shark, octopus, eels, so many fish. The scuba divers saw all of that plus a 15 foot manta ray.
And to top off all of that, Kevan Mantell is an amazingly experienced and knowledgeable marine biologist who knows the ocean like it's his backyard. When I was snorkeling, he told me to go to a specific area where I would find a specific coral and there would be a shark there. And he was exactly right. Another spot he told us about the giant male sea turtle that lives in the area and sure enough, we found him too. His gentle nature and massive amount of knowledge about the ocean puts the cherry on top.
The house he sets up for us is a basic concrete structure with the bare necessities so be prepared for a cold shower and simple rooms. Bring your own cooler packed with snacks and ice. The town has no electricity. The ladies cooked breakfast and dinner for us - delicious meals that filled us up after a day out on the boat.
This trip is really only for those who love adventure. If you're looking for a touristy destination with some pre-packaged enjoyment, this is not for you. But for the adventure seekers, it doesn't get much better than this.
