Santa Catalina, Panama: Visiting for Surf, Shells & Soulful Simplicity
- Brownie
- Nov 5, 2025
- 3 min read
Santa Catalina is one of those places that still feels a little off the radar—but not for long. What was once a sleepy fishing village on Panama’s Pacific coast is now a laid-back surf town with big waves, quiet charm, and a front-row seat to Coiba National Park, one of the most spectacular marine reserves in Central America.
This is not a built-up resort zone. Santa Catalina has no banks, no ATMs, and no high-rise hotels. What it does have is black sand beaches, world-class surfing, amazing shelling if you’re into beachcombing, and some of the clearest waters on the Pacific coast of Panama.
Whether you’re visiting to surf, dive, or just unplug for a while, Santa Catalina delivers.
🏝 The Beaches
The main beach in town, Playa Santa Catalina, is a long stretch of black volcanic sand with great surf and even better shelling at low tide. You’ll find everything from tiny spiral treasures to palm-sized scallop shells scattered along the shore. If you’re not into surfing, it’s still worth walking the beach with your eyes down—you’ll fill your pockets in minutes.
For swimming and calmer waters, head to Playa Estero. It’s walkable from town and framed by lush greenery. It’s great for beginner surfers too.
🐠 Getting to Coiba National Park
One of the biggest draws to Santa Catalina is its role as the main gateway to Coiba, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s often called the “Galápagos of Central America.” The park is made up of dozens of islands, vibrant coral reefs, and protected marine life—think sea turtles, dolphins, whale sharks (in season), and more.
To get there, book a day tour or diving excursion with one of the local operators in town. Most tours leave by boat in the early morning from Santa Catalina’s main beach. It’s about a 1.5-hour boat ride, and the journey itself is beautiful.
Note: There’s a daily entrance fee to Coiba (usually $20–30 for foreigners), and most tours will include that in the price or let you know ahead of time.
🍽️ Where to Eat
1. Pizzeria Jammin’
A favorite for locals and travelers alike, Jammin’ dishes out wood-fired pizzas and cold drinks under the trees. Their outdoor setup has a casual, backpacker vibe and it’s especially lively in the evenings. Bonus: They have good Wi-Fi if you need to check in with the outside world. WhatsApp: +50761645400 Tripadvisor
2. La Vieja Panaderia & Cafe
A cozy café serving fresh bread, sandwiches, and real espresso. It’s great for breakfast or a mid-day bite, and they have delicious pastries if you’re craving something sweet. Also a good stop for picnic items if you’re planning a beach day.
3. El Encuentro
More of a restaurant-style spot, this is the place to go if you want fish fresh from the sea, grilled just right. They have ceviche, plantains, and grilled octopus that gets rave reviews. A solid pick for dinner with a view. WhatsApp: +507 6556-8112 Tripadvisor
🛏️ Where to Stay
This is one of the most established spots in town, right by the water. It has a pool, surfboard rentals, and a restaurant with an ocean view. It’s comfortable, clean, and super convenient if you’re here to surf or dive.
A little outside of town and tucked into the jungle, this boutique eco-lodge offers glamping-style bungalows and a peaceful, design-forward vibe. There’s a pool, yoga space, and it’s ideal if you’re looking to fully unwind. Quiet, dreamy, and very photogenic.
3. Mama Ines
Affordable, beachfront, and very laid-back. It’s not fancy, but it has what you need. The best part? You step out and you’re basically on the beach. It’s great for budget travelers or anyone who wants sand-between-the-toes simplicity.
Pro Tips
Getting there: It’s about a 5-6 hour drive from Panama City. No public transport gets you directly there, so renting a car or booking a shuttle is your best bet.
No ATMs: Bring cash—most places don’t take cards.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard if you’re snorkeling or diving.
Final Thoughts
Santa Catalina isn’t trying to impress you with flash. It’s quiet, unhurried, and deeply local. You wake up to the sound of waves, spend the day in the water or wandering tidepools, and end with a seafood dinner under the stars. Whether you’re here to chase surf breaks or explore the wild beauty of Coiba, this tiny corner of the Pacific might just be your favorite stop in Panama.
