Santa Catalina

This footage of Santa Catalina showcases the Punta Brava Surf Lodge and the surrounding area. This part of Panama is similar to an Mal Pais of Costa Rica back in the mid 90's. Not too many people, good surf, one pizza place and mellow locals, though the infrastructure in Panama is different than Costa Rica. This place is laid back and a good place to hang, catch some surf and enjoy.

Santa Catalina, Panama is located on the Chiriqui Gulf in the state of Veraguas. It is a fishing village which existed in quiet seclusion until discovered by adventurous surfers in the 1970s. Protecting their hidden world class surf, Santa Catalina was kept secret by the surfers for quite sometime.

Santa Catalina offers a smattering of surf camps, showcased here is the Punta Brava Surf Lodge and low cost hotels and a few eating establishments. Still fairly secluded, the closest town with ATM, grocery, other basic services is Soná which is about an hour away.

Literally a tropical paradise, Santa Catalina offers some of the best surf in Panama, the closest access point to Isla Coiba with its world class diving, great local dives and fishing and quiet charm for relaxing. It's beautiful beaches, lush forest and friendly people make it a great stop for travelers wanting to enjoy some of the best of Panama's natural beauty and local flair on a minimal budget.

The main street in Santa Catalina is the end of the road from Soná. The pavement ends at the Santa Catalina beach where local fishing boats anchor just past the break waiting their next fishing expeditions and surf and scuba visitors mix with locals for pick up soccer games.