Santa Catalina is located on the Chiriquí Gulf in the state of Veraguas, Panama. It is a fishing village that existed in quiet seclusion until discovered by adventurous surfers in the 1970s. Protecting their hidden world-class surf, Santa Catalina was kept secret by the surfers for quite some time.
The village offers a collection of surf camps, low-cost hotels, and a few eating establishments. Still fairly secluded, the closest town with ATM, grocery, and other basic services is Soná which is about an hour away. Your surfing sessions are complemented by very good nearby surfing spots spots.
Literally a tropical paradise, Santa Catalina offers some of the best surfs in Panama. The closest access point is Isla Coiba with its world-class diving, great local dives and fishing, and quiet charm for relaxing.
Its beautiful beaches, lush forest, and friendly people make it a great stop for travelers wanting to enjoy some of the best of Panama's natural beauty and local flair on a minimal budget. As Mecca of surf in Panama for more than three decades, it has been the favorite of many of the best surfers of all time.
The perfect wave will make you live one of your best experiences. In Santa Catalina, one of the most important parts to visit, is Coiba National Park, a protected area and the most important park of Panama with the status of a World Heritage site. Here you will find nature in all its splendor, a true natural paradise you should get to know.
The main street in Santa Catalina is the end of the road from Soná. The pavement ends at the Santa Catalina beach where local fishing boats anchor just past the break, waiting for their next fishing expeditions. Surf and scuba visitors mix with locals for a pick up from Santa Catalina, Panama.
The climate in Santa Catalina is tempered by its location on the Pacific Ocean. Tropical year-round, it is divided into the dry season during Panama’s “summer” from December through May and the wet season or “winter” from June to November. The entire year, temperatures hover between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit (30-34 degrees Celsius) during the day and drop into the 70's (20’s degrees Celsius) at night.
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