Santa Catalina, a small fishing village on the Veraguas Peninsula on Panama’s Pacific coast, has become a top destination for backpackers. Known for its incredible surf and access to Coiba National Park, it offers visitors an ideal mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.
While it’s become more touristy over the years, Santa Catalina retains a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere. The town is small, with everything centered around a main street lined with restaurants, bars, accommodations, and surf and dive schools. Though it may feel a bit tourist-driven, it’s absolutely stunning and the perfect spot for both surfers and divers.
If you’re planning a trip to Panama, make sure to carve out time to visit Santa Catalina—and Coiba Island.
Contents:
- How to Get to Santa Catalina
- Coiba Island: A Diver’s Paradise
- Surfing in Santa Catalina
- Mana PIZZA Yolo: The Best Pizza in the World
- The Green Flash: Panama’s Hidden Sunset Phenomenon
Important Tip Before You Go:
Bring Cash!While there’s an ATM in Santa Catalina, it didn’t work during our stay. Many places accept credit cards, but not everywhere. Especially at dive shops, you can save a little by paying in cash.
1. How to get to Santa Catalina
Getting to Santa Catalina involves a bit of travel, but it’s definitely worth it. While you can opt for private shuttles or a rental car, public transport is the most budget-friendly option.
Our Journey from Playa Venao:
We were coming from Playa Venao, and here’s what our route looked like:
Playa Venao → Las Tablas → Chitré → Santiago → Soná → Santa Catalina
- Duration: ~8 hours
- Cost: ~$16.50
Step-by-step journey:
- Playa Venao to Las Tablas: Take a bus from Playa Venao to Las Tablas. It’s easy to catch a ride by waving down the bus at the gas station on the main road.
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Cost: $5
- Las Tablas to Chitré: From Las Tablas, hop on another bus to Chitré.
- Duration: 1 hour
- Cost: $2
- Chitré to Santiago: Take a bus to Santiago.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Cost: $2
We stopped in Santiago for the night to make the trip more comfortable, but you could make it all the way to Santa Catalina in one go if you’re up for a long travel day.
- Santiago to Soná: From Santiago, buses to Soná run every 30 minutes.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Cost: $2.50
- Soná to Santa Catalina: From Soná, take a final bus to Santa Catalina. The buses aren’t as frequent, though, so check the schedule.
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Cost: $5
If you’re traveling from Panama City, you can take a direct bus from Albrook Terminal to Soná.
- Albrook Terminal to Soná:
- Cost: ~$9.70
- Duration: ~5 hours
2. Coiba Island: A Diver’s Paradise
When it comes to the best dive spots in Panama, Coiba Island is always at the top of the list. And trust me—it’s worth the hype.
Why Coiba Island?
Coiba Island is located off Panama’s Pacific coast in the Gulf of Chiriquí and is part of Coiba National Park. The island is easily reachable by boat from Santa Catalina in about an hour. Since 2005, the park has been a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The island’s isolation has preserved its natural beauty—untouched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wealth of marine life. The highlight? The marine animals, including a chance to see whale sharks, which makes diving here truly special.
Diving in Coiba National Park
Before heading to Santa Catalina, I contacted a dive shop to check for availability. If you’re visiting during high season, make sure to book ahead—spots can fill up quickly. I was lucky enough to secure a spot on a dive trip.
The dives in Coiba were incredible. If you go, you’ll likely see tropical fish, different species of sharks, mantas, turtles, and maybe even a whale shark. The dive shop told me it was possible, but I thought it was just a sales pitch. I couldn’t believe it when a whale shark appeared in front of me! It was an unforgettable experience.
- Price: ~190$ for three dives
If you’re more interested in colorful coral reefs, consider diving in Bocas del Toro instead.
Snorkeling in Coiba National Park
Not into diving? No problem! There are also snorkeling tours in Coiba National Park. You’ll visit various spots to observe the underwater world while enjoying the stunning beaches along the way. For those not diving, a snorkeling trip is an absolute must.
Whale shark, Coiba Nationalpark
3. Surfing in Santa Catalina
Although I’m not a pro surfer, Santa Catalina is a surfer’s paradise. The waves here are perfect for both beginners and advanced surfers, so if you’re looking to catch some epic waves, this is the place.
Surfboard Rentals:
- Half-day rental: $10
- Full-day rental: $15
Some beaches here have massive waves, so depending on your skill level, it’s best to ask around for tips on where to surf. BUT for beginners I highly recommend Playa El Estero.
4. Mana PIZZA Yolo: The Best Pizza in the World
As someone who doesn’t usually get homesick, I didn’t expect to find that “homey” feeling in Panama—but then I found Mana PIZZA Yolo.
The Hidden Gem:
Located across from Urbanos Hostel, a little outside the main area, this unassuming spot serves the most incredible pizza you’ll ever eat.
When you walk in, you’ll be greeted by Thomas, an Austrian expat, who will explain the pizzeria’s unique concept. But before you sit down to eat, he might suggest catching the sunset at the beach.
The Pizza Concept:
- Price: $11 per pizza
- Toppings: Add as many as you want, for no extra charge. From seasonal vegetables to various meats like chicken, chorizo, and pepperoni—this pizza is totally customizable. You can even order a “Pizza Todo” with everything!
More Than Just Pizza:
It’s not just about pizza—there’s a small but delicious selection of other dishes, all made fresh by hand.
By the end of the night, you’ll likely find yourself sitting around a table with other guests, chatting and enjoying the warm, family-like atmosphere. It’s a truly unique dining experience in Santa Catalina.
This place wasn’t created for profit, but out of love for food and a passion for cooking. Anything else would be a waste of the chef’s magical talent. If you visit Santa Catalina, you absolutely must stop by. And if you fall in love with the place, the pizzeria is also on Worldpackers, and they’re always happy to welcome extra help.
5. The Green Flash: Panama’s Hidden Sunset Phenomenon
Have you ever heard of the green flash? It’s a rare optical phenomenon that occurs just as the sun sets, where a green flash of light appears on the horizon. I always thought it was just a myth… until I learned that Thomas from the pizzeria had actually seen it right here in Santa Catalina.
Keep an Eye on the Sunset:
So, if you’re here, keep your eyes peeled for this rare sight. Even if you don’t catch the green flash, the sunsets in Santa Catalina are absolutely breathtaking. You’ll rarely see so many colors in the sky anywhere else in Panama. They’re truly some of the most stunning sunsets in the country.
Final Thoughts
Santa Catalina is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Panama. Whether you’re diving in Coiba National Park, catching waves, enjoying some of the best pizza of your life, or simply relaxing on pristine beaches, this little village has something special to offer.
Have you been to Santa Catalina? Share your experiences or ask any questions in the comments below!