Panama’s coastal areas have become popular destinations for both locals and Jewish tourists who want to enjoy beautiful beaches while maintaining their religious traditions. Along the main beach areas near Panama City, such as Coronado, Gorgona, Playa Blanca, and San Carlos, several synagogues and prayer centers have been established to serve the Jewish community’s needs. Here’s a guide to the synagogues at Panama’s beaches, with information on locations, how to get there, and prayer schedules.
1. Chabad Synagogue Coronado
- Location: Coronado, Panama.
- How to Get There: From Panama City, you can reach Coronado by taking the Pan-American Highway west. The drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Coronado is one of the most developed and popular beach areas among the Jewish community.
- Prayer Schedule:
- Shacharit (morning): 8:30 am (Shabbat)
- Mincha and Arvit (afternoon and evening): Vary by season.
- Description: Chabad Coronado is a reference center for Jewish residents and tourists in the area. The atmosphere is welcoming and family-oriented, offering Shabbat dinners, holiday activities, and Torah services. They also have a mikveh available for community use.
2. Beit Habad de las Playas (Chabad Playa Blanca)
- Location: Playa Blanca, Río Hato, Panama.
- How to Get There: Playa Blanca is about a 2-hour drive from Panama City, following the Pan-American Highway west. This area is known for its resorts and white sandy beaches.
- Prayer Schedule:
- Shacharit: 9:00 am (Shabbat)
- Mincha and Arvit: According to sunset and the season.
- Description: Beit Habad de las Playas is a place where tourists and Jewish residents can enjoy religious services and cultural activities while relaxing in a beach setting. They organize Shabbat dinners and offer Torah classes, as well as special events for visitors.
3. Gorgona Synagogue (Jewish Community Center)
- Location: Nueva Gorgona, Panama.
- How to Get There: From Panama City, follow the Pan-American Highway towards Coronado, which is about 10 minutes away. The Jewish community in this area has been growing, and the Gorgona Synagogue serves both residents and vacationers.
- Prayer Schedule:
- Shacharit: 9:00 am (Shabbat)
- Mincha and Arvit: Times vary by season; it’s recommended to contact the synagogue directly.
- Description: This synagogue is a small yet welcoming community center for Jews who want to maintain their religious connection while enjoying a beach setting. During Jewish holidays, special events are organized for both locals and visitors.
4. San Carlos Synagogue
- Location: San Carlos, Panama.
- How to Get There: San Carlos is about 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from Panama City, heading west along the Pan-American Highway. It’s a small coastal town with a growing number of Jewish residents.
- Prayer Schedule:
- Shacharit: 8:30 am (Shabbat)
- Mincha and Arvit: Based on the liturgical calendar.
- Description: Though it’s a smaller community, the San Carlos Synagogue offers regular services for those who seek a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere to practice their faith. In addition to religious services, social and cultural activities are held during Jewish holidays.
| Tips for Visitors: Contact in Advance: It’s recommended to contact the beach synagogues before visiting, as prayer times may vary depending on the season and the number of attendees. Dress Code: While the beaches are relaxing destinations, it’s advisable to dress respectfully when attending services at the synagogues. Shabbat Dinners: Many of the beach synagogues organize communal Shabbat dinners. It’s a great opportunity to connect with the community and enjoy Jewish hospitality by the coast. |
These synagogues at Panama’s beaches offer a place of spirituality and community amid the relaxed coastal environment. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, you’ll find a welcoming space to connect with Jewish traditions and meet other members of the Jewish community.