Santa Catalina Travel Guide: Surf, Beaches and the Gateway to Coiba
Santa Catalina is one of those rare places that still feels undiscovered: a small fishing village on Panama’s Pacific coast with a big reputation among surfers and divers.
What to do
- Surf La Punta — one of Central America’s most consistent breaks.
- Day trip to Coiba National Park — snorkeling, island hopping and wildlife with expert local guides.
- Playa Estero — a long beach perfect for beginner surf lessons and sunsets.
- Eat fresh seafood — the day’s catch lands right in the village.
How to get there
There’s no airport and no direct public bus — which is exactly why it stays quiet. The easiest way is a door-to-door shuttle: from Panama City ($60), Boquete ($35), Bocas del Toro ($70) or David ($35). Check all routes on our Destinations page.
When to go
December–April brings dry, sunny days and calm seas for Coiba. July–October adds humpback whales to the mix. Surf is good year-round, biggest swells February–August.
How long to stay
Two nights minimum: one for the village and beaches, one full day for Coiba. Surfers and divers often stay a week.
Getting around Panama
We run shared and private shuttles linking Panama City, Santa Catalina, Boquete, Bocas del Toro, David and more — plus Coiba National Park day tours from Santa Catalina.