On the Pacific side of Panama is a quaint coastal village called Santa Catalina. It is the nearest community to Coiba National Park which is known in Central America as a mixture between Coco Islands and Galapagos. For budget travellers, I recommend staying at Oasis Surf Camp. It is owned and operated by a friendly Italian family. It is a beachfront accommodation where you can wake up and relax, go for a swim, or do some surfing. Santa Catalina has one of the best beaches to surf in Latin America.

There is a restaurant where you can eat breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu options are a combination of Italian, Panamanian and North American cuisine. The prices on the menu are quite reasonable. For accommodations, you can choose from cabins to camping. For more details on Santa Catalina and Oasis Surf Camp, visit their website here.

Activities to do in Santa Catalina:

  • Surfing
  • Horseback riding
  • Coiba National Park
  • Fishing excursions
  • Estero Beach
  • Snorkelling
  • Yoga
  • Diving
  • Kayaking
  • Hiking