Most visitors to Panama’s Pacific coast fly into Tocumen and drive west, but there is a lesser-known shortcut worth knowing about: the Rio Hato Scarlett Martinez airport (code RIH). Sitting right in the beach corridor, only minutes from Coronado and Playa Blanca, this airport can put you on the sand faster than a long transfer from Panama City, when flights line up. Here is what to know about using RIH for your beach trip.
Rio Hato Scarlett Martinez Airport: The Basics
Officially Scarlett Martínez International Airport (RIH), it serves the western beach communities of Panama’s Pacific coast. Because it sits in the heart of the corridor, arriving here means a short hop to Coronado, Playa Blanca, Farallón, and nearby resorts, rather than the hour-plus drive from Tocumen International (PTY). For beach-bound travelers, that proximity is the whole appeal.
Who flies here?
RIH has historically handled seasonal and charter traffic, particularly during the high tourist season, along with some scheduled service depending on the year and demand. Routes and airlines can change from season to season, so this is the key caveat: confirm current flights locally or with your travel provider before planning around RIH. When a suitable flight exists, it is a fantastic option; when it does not, Tocumen remains the reliable gateway.
Why Consider RIH for a Beach Trip
- Proximity — you land minutes from the beaches, not an hour-plus away.
- Less driving — ideal if you want to maximize relaxation on a short stay.
- Resort access — convenient for Playa Blanca and Farallón properties.
- Simplicity — a smaller airport often means a quicker, calmer arrival.
Getting From RIH to Your Stay
Even though RIH is close to the beaches, arrange your ground transport in advance. Many resorts offer shuttles, and private transfers or rental cars are available. Coronado is a short drive east of the airport, while Playa Blanca and Farallón resorts are nearby to the west. Confirm your pickup with your hotel or transfer provider, and carry small US dollars (Panama uses the US dollar) for any tolls or tips.
When to Use Tocumen Instead
If no convenient RIH flight matches your dates, fly into Tocumen and drive the Pan-American Highway west to Coronado, about an hour to ninety minutes. It is a well-paved, straightforward route with more airline options and frequencies. Many travelers simply plan around Tocumen and treat RIH as a bonus when a seasonal flight fits.
Plan Your Beach Arrival
Whether you land at RIH or PTY, deciding where you will stay and how you will get there makes all the difference. Browse local hotels and beach rentals, and read our Coronado guides for corridor tips and beach picks.
Dreaming of a fast track to the Pacific sand? Explore the Coronado Digital Directory to line up transport, stays, and dining, and make the most of every option, from Scarlett Martínez to Tocumen, for reaching the Coronado beaches.
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