Things to do in Santa Catalina
Discover the best attractions and experiences Santa Catalina has to offer
Historic Monuments
Santa Catalina's small town center blends simple colonial-influenced buildings with a laid-back seaside vibe.
Iglesia de Santa Catalina
Historic church that serves as a local landmark and gathering place.
Plaza Central de Santa Catalina
Old-town square surrounded by palms and local life.
Museums
Learn about the area’s sea life and surfing heritage in small, locally run spaces.
Museo del Surf de Santa Catalina
A small museum celebrating the town's surfing culture.
Museo de la Pesca Local
Exhibition about regional fishing traditions and sea life.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites provide insight into community life in this coastal town.
Capilla de Santa Catalina
Chapel dedicated to the town’s patron with a simple, peaceful setting.
Iglesia Central de Santa Catalina
Community church that anchors local religious life.
National & Theme Parks
Panama’s Pacific coast is framed by remarkable protected areas and islands.
Coiba National Park
A vast marine park famous for reefs, dolphins and remote islands.
Isla Coiba
The park’s main island known for pristine beaches and wildlife.
Neighborhoods
Explore the main spots where locals live, eat and hang out near the coast.
Centro de Santa Catalina
The town’s compact center with shops, cafes and easy accesses.
La Playa (local beachfront area)
Residential and beach-front community where life happens.
Free Things to Do
Natural scenery and beaches offer plenty of free ways to enjoy the town.
Relax on Playa Santa Catalina
Stretch out on the white sand and soak up the sun.
Sunset stroll along the beach
Walk the shoreline as the sky lights up in pink and orange.
Snorkel from the shore
Discover small fish and coral right from the beach.
Gastronomy
Seafood-forward Panamanian dishes are a highlight in Santa Catalina.
Ceviche panameño
Fresh lime-cured seafood with onions and herbs.
Pescado frito con patacones
Crispy fried fish served with plantain chips.
Caldos de mariscos
Savory seafood soups rich with local flavors.
Nightlife
Casual beachside vibes after dark with music and drinks.
Sunset drinks at beachfront spots
Relax with a refreshing drink as the sun goes down.
Live music evenings in open-air venues
Local musicians perform in relaxed coastal settings.
Entertainment
Outdoorsy experiences and gentle adventures for all ages.
Evening boat tours around the coast
Calm evening cruises to enjoy the sea breeze.
Surfing lessons
Beginner-friendly sessions to learn the waves at Santa Catalina.
Sports
Water sports are the heart of Santa Catalina’s activity scene.
Surfing at Santa Catalina Point
World-class waves for all levels.
Stand-up paddleboarding along the coast
Glide over calm waters and enjoy the scenery.
Snorkeling excursions
Guided snorkeling to see tropical fish and coral.
Off the Track
Less-touristy adventures to connect with nature and locals.
Hike to coastal viewpoints
Trail hikes offering panoramic sea views.
Boat trip to Coiba for snorkeling
Day trip to see wildlife and reefs.
Cultural tour of the fishing village
Learn about daily life and coastal traditions.