Building the Beach Community

Until recently, the expat community in the Pacific beach neighborhoods has been primarily made up of retirees. In the last 5 years a younger demographic has begun to arrive, and their needs are different than those who came before. Many of the new residents have young children and seek social networks beyond what the beach community already offers. While “happy hours” have been the forerunner in community connection, there is now a growing need for more family oriented functions. Parents want events where their kids can meet other kids, they can connect with other parents, and spend quality family time.      

The first institutions to act on the needs of young families were, naturally, the schools. The three International schools in the area, Panama Coast International School, Coronado International School and Five Stars Academy, offer a variety of kid friendly initiatives.

Coronado International School (CIS) offers dance, soccer, and music programs that are open to children in various age groups. This year CIS will also introduce parent and student councils, as well as a recycling program in their school cafeteria.

Students at Five Stars continue to nurture a school garden. They also offer ocean familiarity programs such as swimming and surfing as part of their extra curricular activities.

Panama Coast International School (PCIS) is in the final stages of completing their open-air performing arts center. The center will include a stage to host student performances, as well as fairs. This year PCIS will hold their third annual Science Fair and their first annual History Fair. Also new for students this year, are the tennis, golf and swim teams. 

Schools are not the only organizations making strides to develop family friendly community programs. Parents who own local businesses have also been organizing events with kids and parents in mind. Last month United Country organized their first Family Beach Day.

We spoke to Marla and Roberto Diaz, owners of United Country Real Estate, about the event. Marla explained that the activity was created as an opportunity for not only parents and their children, but also anyone looking to take advantage of the Pacific playground in our backyard. Being avid surfers and business owners with a wholesome outlook on life, Roberto and Marla wanted a non-happy hour event that the community could be involved with. On family beach days, free surf lessons are also offered. Participants are requested to do their part to keep the beach clean, and leave with one bag of trash.

There are two Family Beach Days scheduled for October: Saturday Oct. 11 and Saturday Oct 25 - both start at 10:00 a.m. Currently the venue is Playa Serena in Coronado, but it is subject to change based on the surf conditions. For up to date information visit the PlayaCommunity events page, The Coronado Family Surf Facebook group, or email: 

UPDATE: There will be a Family Beach Day on Friday October 3 at 4:00 p.m. the location will be Playa Serena