Santa Catalina

Among Central America's top surf spots, Santa Catalina is still somewhat remote with limited development and home to some seriously wicked surf. Life here is pretty tranquil, in a fishing village where skateboards rip down main street and kids go barefoot but clothing is required to walk to and from the beach. Most non-surfers discover the area as the main springboard for day and overnight trips to Isla de Coiba and its national park, where there's outstanding scuba diving and snorkeling.

A surfer silhouette on the big waves of Santa Catalina surfing beaches. Panama, Central America; Shutterstock ID 635291543; Your name (First / Last): Alicia Johnson; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial ; Full Product or Project name including edition: Panama

A surfer silhouette on the big waves of Santa Catalina surfing beaches. Panama, Central America; Shutterstock ID 635291543; Your name (First / Last): Alicia Johnson; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial ; Full Product or Project name including edition: Panama

Book
App
Lonely Planet App on a phone
Brand New!

Get the Lonely Planet App

Take your Panama trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Time to book that trip to Panama

Lonely Planet Journeys takes you there with fully customizable trips to top destinations – all crafted by our local experts.

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Santa Catalina