Where to stay: The Grand Panama Resort in Panama City Beach, pictured here, is a high-rise right on the Gulf of Mexico, with large rooms perfect for sharing with girlfriends.
Where to party: Panama is known mostly for hosting bachelor parties (thanks, in part, to a season 16 episode of The Bachelor), but bachelorettes are taking over, too. Grab food and drinks at Pineapple Willy's or Schooners. Want to try something other than the typical club scene? You and your crew can rent a sailboat for a day at sea, complete with cocktails (PanamaSailingTours.com has great options).
What to pack: Lightweight clothing. Thanks to its location close to the equator, humidity is high here year-round! And an umbrella; sudden thunderstorms are common.
When to go: February, March, September, and October are the best times to visit for the least chances of rain.
