Hawk’s Nest Panama: A Mountain Stay in La Laguna
High above Panama’s Pacific coast, Hawk’s Nest combines a quiet mountain setting, a small-scale stay, and one seriously memorable view.
Our Stay at Hawk’s Nest
Getting to Hawk’s Nest is part of the experience.
After leaving the main roads behind, the route winds through the rural community of La Laguna and begins climbing into the mountains. The final stretch takes roughly 20 minutes, and then, after one sweeping uphill turn, Hawk’s Nest suddenly appears.
The setting is what makes this place special.
Walk around to the back of the property and the landscape seems to fall away beneath you. From the patio and infinity pool, there is an enormous, nearly 270-degree view across the surrounding mountains and countryside, stretching all the way toward the Pacific Ocean.
It is the kind of view that photographs struggle to explain.
A Small, Relaxed Place to Stay
Hawk’s Nest feels much more personal than staying at a large hotel or resort. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed, and the mountain location makes it feel far removed from the busier coastal communities below.
That isolation is also something travelers should understand before booking. This isn't a property where you simply walk out the door and find restaurants, shops and attractions. Having a rental car makes the stay considerably more practical, and you'll be driving the mountain road whenever you want to explore beyond the property.
For us, that was part of the appeal rather than a drawback.
The Pool and the View
The outdoor area was easily our favorite part of Hawk’s Nest.
The infinity pool sits right at the edge of the property, with the mountains spreading out below and the Pacific visible in the distance. There are places to sit and relax around the pool, and the elevated location gives the entire area an open, almost panoramic feeling.
It is particularly good at the beginning and end of the day, when you can simply sit outside and enjoy the view rather than feeling like you need to be somewhere else.
Who We Think Hawk’s Nest Is Best For
Hawk’s Nest makes the most sense for travelers who want something quieter and more personal than a conventional hotel, particularly if you're exploring this part of Panama by car.
It is especially well suited to travelers who appreciate scenery, small properties and being a little removed from the tourist centers. If your priority is nightlife, walkable restaurants or resort-style amenities, the mountain location probably isn't what you're looking for.
But for a first-time visitor who wants to experience another side of Panama beyond the beaches and Panama City, we would absolutely recommend putting Hawk’s Nest on the list.
Our Take
Hawk’s Nest gave us something we value highly when traveling: a memorable sense of place.
The winding drive into La Laguna, the mountain setting, the infinity pool and that enormous view made the stay feel distinctly Panamanian rather than interchangeable with a hotel almost anywhere else.
Curated Upgrades verdict
🟢 Recommended, particularly for independent travelers with a rental car who want a peaceful mountain base and a view they won't soon forget.