Just 15 minutes from the Bridge of the Americas, Playa Veracruz is the closest public-access beach to the city and just west of the mouth of the Panama Canal. Playa Veracruz has a number of open-air, thatched-roofed ranchos offering fresh fish and brew with a view. Popular with young locals on the weekends, the beach is broad and inviting. Changing rooms are available for a fee at many of the spots, but finicky bathers may prefer hotel swimming pools.