About Finca La Maya

The luscious tropical environment at Hacienda La Maya is… inspiring!

Nestled in luminous secluded countryside, the private property has views of the mountains and “peeks” to the sea. Surrounded by rolling lawns, coconut and fruit trees, exotic gardens full of wildlife, birds, and colorful vegetation, our hidden paradise will dazzle and delight you!

Our mission at La Maya is to provide a unique and inspiring environment where you can relax, revitalize, explore new ideas, or learn new skills by participating in the variety of workshops we offer. The Art Center is a large light-filled structure, approximately 5000 square feet, with a classroom or meeting area, and an additional large work room for art and crafts or other types of workshops. The facility has vaulted ceilings, huge windows providing natural light, an outdoor work area, full bath with shower, and plenty of parking. The Arts Center is perfect for conferences, meetings, parties, retreats, workshops, or gatherings of any kind.

Meet Starr and Steve.

Retired in their beloved Panama after careers, families, and world-wide travel, this dynamic couple has become an integral part of the San Carlos community, founding and directing Finca La Maya’s Community Programs as a way to thank and give back to Panama. 

Free English Classes Change Lives.

In 2007, Finca La Maya began years of free community programs for local families, police, and expats. Programs included English and Spanish language instruction, “Art for Kids” classes, computer instruction, music classes, movie nights and Christmas festivities. In 2009, Finca La Maya completed its bi-lingual library, with an extensive collection of books and DVDs in both Spanish and English.

Continued Community Support.

The government of Panama made English classes mandatory for all students in 2016, and so Finca La Maya celebrated with a grand finale for its 10 years of free community programs. Finca La Maya continues to support the the local soccer and baseball teams, art day camps. 

“I wanted to change my life. We could not learn English in my school. At La Maya, we learn words we actually use – for work, for home, for real life. My whole life has changed! Now I use English everyday. I am a full-time university student, I have a well-paid bilingual office job, and every Saturday I return to La Maya to teach English, I’m making a very good future!”

Alex, past volunteer English instructor at FLM

“Alex is an excellent example of the success of La Maya’s free programs. When I met Alex, I was impressed with his professional demeanor, skill with English, and his outstanding scholastic reports. I hired Alex right away. I believe that Alex has learned so many social and English skills at Finca La Maya, that he has a strong sense of giving back to a place that helped him change his life entirely.” 

Kaye, Business Manager at Coronado Residents Association 

“We have been astounded by local children’s lack of knowledge of their own country. These students are excited in not only learning English, but by becoming more aware of what is ‘out there’ in the world. The supportive community at La Maya is really inspiring. Some FLM students are getting better jobs with their English language skills.”

Leara, past volunteer English instructor at FLM