Santa Catalina Panama is a laid-back fishing village cum surfer heaven, a secret destination where only those in the know find themselves thanks to the area’s remoteness, tucked away on Panama’s wild Pacific coast.

This remoteness, however, is also one of Santa Catalina’s most prized qualitiess, as it protects this hidden gem from the massive tourist hoards and mega-resorts which might otherwise have plagued this gorgeous paradise.

In a world of rampant overtourism, and over-hyped destinations that inevitably let you down: Santa Catalina was a literal breath of fresh air.

But there is a lot more to do here than just surf! 

Easily one of my favorite places to relax and spend a week, there is actually a surprising amount of things to do in Santa Catalina, Panama, which you might not otherwise know! To remedy this, I have put together a guide of 10 fun things to do in Santa Catalina Panama, to inspire your travels here.

Enjoy it now before the secret is out!

10 Fun Things To Do In Santa Catalina: Panama’s Laid-Back Surf Town 🏄

#1: Try Your Hand At Some Of The World’s Best Surfing At Santa Catalina Panama

No surprise that surfing is #1 on this list right? Santa Catalina has the best surf break in Panama and is one of the best in the entire world. Surf aficionados flock here from all corners of the globe, but not to worry – it’s not just for the big time pro’s!

There is also a smaller surf break perfect for beginners – I had a go with some stellar ex-pro instructors from Waluaa Surf & Yoga, and they had me standing up in no time.

Not an easy achievement, let me tell you….

#2: Sample Delicious Cocktails While Taking In The Ocean Vibes

Would any holiday in a tropical paradise be complete without delicious, refreshing cocktails?

Of course not!

And some of the best on offer is available at Restaurant Pescoa, whose Cocoloco blew my mind! With a killer view of the ocean and an extensive menu of classic and modern cocktails, I’m sure your leisurely afternoon will quickly blend into the evening…

Of course, you can stay at Hotel Santa Catalina (and it is totally amazing), but non-guests are always welcome to just come along for a drink and to enjoy the view…

#3: Unwind From Your Daily Routine And Let Yoga Heal Your Soul

Calm your mind, body, and soul with some early morning yoga complimented by the crashing of waves completing their long journey across the Pacific.

It will limber you up for the rest of the day’s activities, and in such a serene environment, you can’t help feeling ‘tranquilo’!

Grab your yoga travel mat and get in touch with Waluaa Surf & Yoga for a one-off yoga lesson or indulge yourself with one of their unique surf/yoga retreats – you will thank yourself later!

#4: Get Sandy At The One Of The Many Beachs At Santa Catalina Panama

While Santa Catalina’s main beach does have its charm, for me, there is nothing more appealing than the black sand of Estero Beach.

 A long, beautiful stretch of fine sand and small waves, perfect for beginner surfers and those looking for a quick dip – It has yet to be built up with the now ubiquitous bars and restaurants like so many other beaches in Central America, so thankfully, you can still enjoy its raw, natural charm in peace.

#5: Explore Some Of The World’s Best Diving!

Not far from Santa Catalina is the mythical Coiba National Park, part of the same island chain as the Galapagos. Teeming with an insane variety of marine life – it’s a magical place where anything can happen.

I organized an incredible multi-day trip here through Panama Dive Center, Santa Catalina’s only 5-star dive operator, and saw dolphins, sting rays, sharks, schools of pufferfish, frogfish, turtles, eagle rays, giant groupers, schooling jacks, and more…

But be quick, the secret of some of the world’s best diving will get out soon!

#6: Treat Your Tastebuds At The Burgeoning Santa Catalina Panama Food Scene

One of the least expected highlights of Santa Catalina Panama that absolutely no one seems to be talking about is the food. I’m not even kidding – this small surf town has over 25 eateries, and almost every one of them is a must-try!

I don’t want to ruin the fun of exploration, and standards can slip, so ask around, but I can guarantee you this is not the place to skimp out. Try a new place every night, and you will not be disappointed – sushi, pizza, Argentinian, Panamanian, Mexican – It’s all on offer and to die for!

Sure, I loved the food in Panama City, but there is just something about eating fish next to the roaring waves of the ocean that gets me every time…

#7: Under Why The Santa Catalina Sunset Is Like No Other

West-facing means the sunsets here are spectacular and should be on your nightly list of things to do if you know where to look for them.

The main beach of Santa Catalina has uninterrupted views across the ocean to the fiery red sunset, with a few nice bars to grab a beer at, but for my money, again, it’s Estero Beach. Take your own beer, wander along the beach till you get the optimal view and enjoy a surreal, never to be forgotten sunset in Santa Catalina.

#8: Discover The Terrestrial Wonders Of Coiba National Park

More than just diving, Coiba National Park by land offers travelers the opportunity to hike through primary, untouched forest, discover endemic species not seen anywhere else in the world and come face-to-face with Tito, a 4-meter-long crocodile that hangs out around the ranger’s station.

With very little in the way of tourist infrastructure due to its status as a notorious prison island until 2004, Coiba National Park is difficult but rewarding to access. An overnight diving trip with Panama Dive Center is the best way to see it above and below water, or you can hire a boat to take you out here, but the rangers are not exactly fans of unaccompanied guests!

Failing that, a snorkeling trip should allow you some time on this UNESCO World Heritage Listed island but sadly, not to even scratch the surface of this jewel in the Pacific.

Forget Easter Island, Hawaii, and Tahiti  – Coiba is where you need to go!

#9: Feel Freedom Like No Other On A Horse-Back Riding Adventure

While most of the activities in Santa Catalina inevitably involve water, horseback riding offers a respite for land-lubbers to explore the rolling farmland and nature in the surrounding area.

A sunset beach trot would still be high on my list, but Sergio and Vicky at Waluaa Surf & Yoga who organize horseback riding, will likely have some amazing suggestions to match exactly what you are looking for.

   

#10: Take It All In And Just Spend The Day Relaxing At Hotel Santa Catalina!

With all the other not to be missed things to do in Santa Catalina, Panama, it’s important to remember to take some time out and relax.

To enjoy the beauty and serenity of this laid-back town and reset yourself. For my money, there is no better place to do this than at the stunning infinity pool of Hotel Santa Catalina (you can read my review here). With views out over one of the world’s best surf breaks and cocktails on standby, this is a dangerous place where you can spend hours upon hours and never get enough!

And there you have ten things you absolutely cannot miss in Santa Catalina, Panama!

I’m sure there are plenty more things for you to find and discover on your own, but don’t make the mistake of thinking this is a destination only for one or two nights!

Especially given the time taken to get to Santa Catalina, Panama – about 5 hours by car or seven by bus from Panama City!

Let me know if I have missed anything in the comments below and if you have any additional information for other readers, please pop it in below, and I’ll keep this post as up-to-date as possible!