Santa Catalina

Written by Maria Gaulto, Roberto Gonzalez
03/08/2025
Der Red Frog Beach ist Teil des Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park.
Dronepicr, Wikimedia Commons

Santa Catalina, Panama, is a relaxed coastal village renowned as a premier surf destination and the primary gateway to the biodiverse Coiba National Park. Visitors can experience world-class surfing, from beginner-friendly waves to advanced breaks, and explore an abundant underwater world through diving and snorkeling trips.

The town fosters a laid-back social atmosphere, primarily centered around its beaches and a few welcoming establishments. Playa Santa Catalina serves as a lively hub for daytime activities, where locals and tourists often join in evening volleyball and soccer games. Playa Estero also offers a relaxed vibe, hosting beach bars like Oasis Surf Camp, known for social gatherings and occasional electronic music parties. Tourists connect at various local restaurants and bars, such as No Worries Bar, exchanging travel experiences.

Top 7 Things to do in Santa Catalina

Engaging in water sports such as surfing, snorkeling, and diving are prominent activities, alongside opportunities to explore natural beauty and embrace the local culture.

1. Explore Coiba National Park

Venturing to Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover a thriving underwater world. This marine park, often likened to the 'Galapagos of Panama', teems with diverse marine life including sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, and dolphins. Depending on the season, there are chances to encounter larger species such as whale sharks or manta rays. Day trips typically involve multiple stops for snorkeling or diving, an exploration of Coiba Island's park ranger station which may include a short hike to a viewpoint and sightings of monkeys, and relaxation on pristine secluded beaches. For those interested in deeper exploration, professional PADI courses are available.

Cost: A full-day snorkeling tour generally ranges from $65 to $90 USD per person. Diving tours for certified divers, including two dives, are typically between $140 and $150 USD per person, with an option for a third dive costing an additional $15 to $20 USD. These prices usually include equipment rental, a guide, lunch, and water. A mandatory Coiba National Park entrance fee of $20 USD per non-Panamanian visitor must be paid in cash directly to the park. For those wishing to learn to dive, a PADI Open Water course typically costs around $480 USD.

Transport: Access to Coiba National Park is exclusively by boat from Santa Catalina, with the journey taking approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the park's islands.

2. Surf or Learn to Surf

Santa Catalina is renowned for its consistent waves, catering to surfers of all abilities. Beginners often find ideal conditions at Playa Estero, where gentle, rolling waves break over a sandy bottom, providing a safe and inviting environment to learn. More experienced surfers can challenge themselves at Playa Santa Catalina and La Punta, known for their advanced breaks. Surf lessons typically begin with beach warm-ups before moving into practical techniques like paddling, board positioning, and wave selection, with personalized instruction to help refine skills.

Cost: A 1.5-hour private surf lesson typically costs between $55 and $60 USD, with prices potentially varying based on group size. Group lessons may start from $40 USD per hour. Surfboard rentals are available for approximately $10 USD per day for standard boards, while longboards start at $20 USD per day, with discounts often offered for multi-day rentals. Board rentals can be found directly on Playa Estero from local vendors.

Transport: Playa Estero is a convenient 20-minute walk from Santa Catalina's main street, while Playa Santa Catalina is situated centrally within the town, making both easily accessible on foot.

3. Witness the Pacific Sunset

Experiencing the sunset over the Pacific Ocean from Santa Catalina's west-facing coastline is a captivating end to any day. Both Playa Santa Catalina and Playa El Estero offer exceptional vantage points. Many beachfront establishments provide a relaxed setting to enjoy the spectacle, with options to purchase drinks or meals as the sun dips below the horizon.

Cost: This activity is free of charge, with optional costs for food or beverages purchased at local bars or restaurants.

Transport: Both Playa Santa Catalina and Playa Estero are easily reachable by foot from most accommodations in town, or a short taxi ride to Playa Estero.

4. Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard to Isla Santa Catalina

For those seeking alternative water-based activities, renting a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) provides an excellent way to explore the calm waters and discover secluded beaches around Isla Santa Catalina. This small island, located just across from Playa Santa Catalina, is ideal for a leisurely paddle. Undertaking this activity in the morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the intense midday sun.

Cost: SUP rentals are typically around $35 USD for half a day or $60 USD for a full day. Kayak rental prices are generally similar, and local providers can offer current rates.

Transport: Rental shops are located near Playa Santa Catalina, from where you can directly paddle to the island.

5. Relax on Santa Catalina's Beaches

Santa Catalina's tranquil beaches provide a perfect setting for relaxation and unwinding. Playa Santa Catalina, with its dark sand, serves as a central hub for activity, while Playa Estero offers a more laid-back ambiance with gentle waves. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shore, swim in the ocean, sunbathe, or simply recline in a hammock. In the evenings, locals often engage in spirited games of volleyball and soccer on Playa Santa Catalina, and tourists are frequently invited to join in, offering a glimpse into the local community life.

Cost: Enjoying the beaches is free of charge.

Transport: Both main beaches are easily accessible on foot from various points within the village.

6. Participate in a Yoga Session

Embracing the serene atmosphere of Santa Catalina, several local establishments and surf camps offer yoga classes and retreats. These sessions provide an excellent opportunity for physical and mental relaxation, complementing the adventurous activities available in the area and promoting overall well-being.

Cost: The cost for yoga sessions varies depending on the studio or retreat selected. Some surf and yoga combined packages are also available.

Transport: Yoga studios are generally located within walking distance from central areas of Santa Catalina.

7. Savor Local Cuisine

Despite its small size, Santa Catalina boasts a surprising variety of dining options, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culinary scene. Restaurants predominantly feature open-air settings, serving fresh, homemade dishes with a focus on seafood caught daily. Beyond traditional Panamanian fare, one can find Italian pastas, Argentinean steaks, and pizza. Exploring the local fishing area offers an authentic insight into daily life in the village.

Cost: Dining in Santa Catalina is generally affordable, with some local eateries offering meals for as little as $1 USD.

Transport: Most restaurants are conveniently located along the main street or on the dirt roads leading to the beaches, making them easily accessible by foot from various parts of town.

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