The most popular beach within easy driving distance of David is Playa Barqueta, a wide, black-sand beach with pounding surf that’s usually far too rough for swimming. Think seriously before going into these waters above your calves. I grew up body surfing in fairly big surf on Panama’s Pacific beaches, and I wouldn’t dare go for a splash in what I’ve seen at Barqueta.

To get to Playa Barqueta by public transit, take the Guarumal bus from the David bus terminal. For those driving, the main turnoff from David to Playa Barqueta is at the Escuela San Francisco de Asís, a large school at the corner of Calle Miguel A. Brenes/F Sur and Avenida 9 de Enero/1 Este. There’s no name on it, so look for the statue of St. Francis in front. Head southwest on Avenida 9 de Enero and keep on going. The trip is about 30 kilometers long and takes about half an hour.

Regional and youth baseball games are held in Estadio Kenny Serracin, a stadium two blocks south of the Interamericana between Avenida Obaldía and Avenida Belisarrio Porras. Béisbol games are held only in the dry season, from January to around early May. Tickets should be no more than US$5 and can be bought at the gate. Schedules are not well publicized, but some information is available from the official Chiriquí province baseball website, http://chiriquibeis.com/. Their telephone number is 260-69816.