There are no beach bars in the San Blas Islands unless you bring your own. The islands are strictly BYOB ... mixers, too.

I'm now thinking of going somewhere else besides San Blas Islands. What other beach towns could we consider in Panama, based on my original question?

I really like Contadora or Venao (u can’t snorkel but it has the beach bars like Blue Venao or Ecovenao

I agree with Jim about Contadora as good choice for beaches, hotel and bars. Take a look at Mar y Oro. There is snorkeling, but you won’t see the colorful corals that you find in the Caribbean. You can take the daily ferry from Amador, Sea Las Perlas, or if money is no object, you can take a charter plane.

Another option is Portobelo. There is a small hotel, El Bongo, near the town that offers a small beach front, a good restaurant and bar, and an onsite scuba/snorkeling op, Golden Frog Scuba. Golden Frog can also set you up with kayaking through the mangroves and horseback riding or hiking through the jungle trails in the mountains surrounding the town.

I just got back from one night on Pelicano Island in the San Blas. They do have a bar and made the best pina colada I've ever had (fresh pineapple and fresh coconut). I agree that a couple days would likely be enough, but the islands are definitely worth seeing in my mind. I boked through San Blas Dreams.

Thanks for all the help!!

The trip from Panama City to the islands sounds daunting but worth it.