Panama Santa Catalina Travel Magnet

Santa Catalina is a small fishing village turned surf and dive hub on Panama’s Pacific coast in Veraguas Province. Once remote and difficult to reach, it has become a favorite for travelers seeking big waves, laid-back charm, and access to nearby marine treasures. The town remains simple, with dirt roads, modest accommodations, and a relaxed vibe that appeals to surfers and adventure seekers. Its long beach and powerful breaks make Santa Catalina one of Central America’s top surf destinations, hosting consistent waves year-round and international competitions. It’s also the main gateway to Coiba National Park, where boat trips offer world-class diving and snorkeling with whale sharks, manta rays, and abundant coral reef life. Visitors come for the combination of reliable surf, exceptional marine biodiversity, and the feeling of an unspoiled coastal escape.