The world’s newest major landmass is a mixed bag for tourists, but there are some great destinations and all of them lie in the tropics.
Central America's only English-speaking country is known for low-key resorts on offshore islands and a peninsula
Costa Rica is the star of Central American tourism, with lovely beaches on both coasts and loads of adventure activities and natural sights in between.
El Salvador has a few lovely colonial cities that are interesting, but it's not known for being well organized.
Guatemala has a few interesting destinations and natural sights, but Guatemala City is huge, crowded, and probably not worth your time.
Most of Honduras is probably best avoided these days, though Roatan Island is safe and increasingly popular.
Nicaragua is sort of a cheaper and more disorganized version of Costa Rica. It's easier if you speak Spanish.
A man, a plan, a canal, Panama is the business capital of Central America and one of its highlights. The San Blas Islands are arguably the best stop for beach holidays.