Pedasí is a lifestyle. Slower, sun-soaked, and deeply connected to nature and community. To truly appreciate the charm of this Azuero Peninsula town, step into the sandals of a local for a day.
Here’s what a typical day looks like for someone who calls Pedasí home, fishermen, farmers, shopkeepers, artists, and families who make this place feel alive.
6:00 AM – Sunrise & Simplicity
The day begins early here. By sunrise, locals are already out walking, watering plants, or sipping coffee on their porches. The air is cool, the town is quiet, and the sky often lights up in pastel pinks and gold.
“La mañana es para pensar” mornings are for thinking.
7:30 AM – Off to Work (Or the Water)
Many locals work in fishing, farming, or tourism. Some head to Playa Arenal to launch their pangas and bring in the day’s catch. Others open up cafés, bakeries, or shops near the town square. Farmers tend to animals or crops in the nearby countryside.
There’s a quiet productivity in the air, life flows with the rhythm of nature.
12:00 PM – Lunch Break is Sacred
By midday, the sun is strong and lunch is a big deal. Families and workers gather around heaping plates of arroz con pollo, sancocho, or grilled pork with yuca.
3:00 PM – Errands, Crafts & Catching Up
Afternoons are for errands, small tasks, and community connection. You might see women weaving hats or preparing tamales, kids riding bikes through the streets, or elders chatting in the shade.
6:00 PM – Sunset Rituals
Locals head to Playa Toro or El Ciruelo to catch the sunset, sometimes with a fishing rod, sometimes just to walk. It’s a quiet ritual, a time for reflection and gratitude.
No one’s in a rush. That’s the Pedasí way.
7:30 PM – Dinner & Music
Dinner is either simple at home or a treat at a favorite fonda or restaurant. On weekends, you’ll hear live music floating from bars or backyards. Laughter, domino games, or an impromptu dance party might break out under the stars.
Why This Matters to Visitors
Understanding the local rhythm isn’t just charming, it’s respectful. It helps travelers move at the town’s pace, engage more meaningfully, and support the community with empathy.
So the next time you’re in Pedasí, try waking up early, buying fresh bread from a local baker, or watching the sunset with the locals. It’s the best way to truly feel at home here.
Tip: Ask permission before photographing locals. A smile and a “¿Puedo tomar una foto?” go a long way.