Santa Catalina

Santa Catalina is a world-class destination for surfers and nature enthusiasts on Panama’s Pacific coast. Once a quiet fishing hamlet known only to intrepid wave-hunters, it has grown into a lively global meeting point while retaining its rustic, unpretentious atmosphere. Life here is governed by the tides and the legendary swells that roll into its rocky points. It is widely considered to have the most consistent surfing conditions in Central America. Beyond the surf breaks, the town is the main jumping-off point for Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former penal colony. Coated in virgin rainforest and surrounded by one of the Pacific's largest coral reefs, Coiba features world-class diving and snorkeling where visitors can spot whale sharks, manta rays, and turtles. The local beaches, such as Playa Estero, are characterized by expansive stretches of dark volcanic sand and dramatic sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. Gastronomy in Santa Catalina focuses on the daily catch, often prepared with a mix of local Panamanian and international flavors. Reaching the town involves a journey through the rural landscapes of Veraguas, typically via the town of Soná. While surfers prefer the big swells of the rainy season from April to October, those coming for diving and island tours will find the calmest waters from December to April. It is for anyone seeking a raw, nature-focused adventure.

Nearby cities

Panama City

Modern capital on the Pacific coast featuring an impressive skyline.

David

Major city in the west, near the border with Costa Rica.

Colón

Port city at the Caribbean entrance to the Panama Canal.

Santiago de Veraguas

A major agricultural and commercial center.

Chitré

Capital of Herrera province, known for its local festivals.

Soná

A historic agricultural hub and the gateway to the world-renowned surfing and diving spots of Veraguas.

Playa Blanca

A premium resort destination on the Pacific coast featuring giant pools and white sand beaches.

Pedasí

A charming fishing village on the Azuero Peninsula, famous for its beaches, whale watching, and surfing.

Bocas Isla Bastimentos

A wild island in Bocas del Toro known for its marine national park, red frogs, and Afro-Caribbean heritage.

Santa Fé

A charming mountain village in Veraguas, famous for its orchids, coffee culture, and countless waterfalls.

Farallón / Río Hato

A premier Pacific beach destination featuring luxury resorts and expansive golden sand beaches.

Playa Venao

A world-class surfing destination featuring black sand beaches and a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere.

Aguadulce

An industrial city known for salt production, sugar cane plantations, and shrimp farming.

History & landmarks

Las Tablas

The cultural heart of the Azuero Peninsula, known for its magnificent carnival celebrations and traditional Panamanian folklore.

Bocas del Toro

A picturesque archipelago in the Caribbean Sea, popular with tourists.

El Valle de Anton

A village located inside one of the world's largest inhabited volcanic craters.

Boquete

Mountain town known for its cooler climate and coffee plantations.

Panama Canal

A world-famous artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Taboga Island

Taboga Island, also known as the "Island of Flowers," is a picturesque volcanic island situated in the Gulf of Panama.

Biomuseo

A colorful biodiversity museum designed by architect Frank Gehry.

Amador Causeway

A causeway linking islands, offering great views of the city skyline.

Nature

Gatun Lake

A massive artificial lake that forms a major part of the Panama Canal.

Chagres River

The river that provides the water essential for the operation of the Panama Canal.

More places

Coiba National Park

A large Pacific island with rich marine life, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Fort San Lorenzo

A historic fortress situated at the mouth of the Chagres River.

Volcan Baru National Park

The protected area surrounding the country's highest peak.

Cerro Punta

The highest inhabited area of Panama, known for its fertile volcanic soil.

Soberania National Park

A world-renowned destination for birdwatching in the tropical rainforest.

Fortifications of Portobelo

Major Spanish colonial defenses located on the Caribbean coast.

Casco Viejo

The historic district of Panama City featuring colonial architecture.

Panamá Viejo

The archaeological ruins of the first Spanish city in Panama.