Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
stones
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
steep
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
5 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
stones
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
desirable
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
500 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Santa Catalina: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — blue, clarity high, average temperature +27.0°C, warms up to +29.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Santa Catalina: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — strong. Average wave height — 2.0 m. Strong waves will please surfers but require caution when swimming with children.
Playa Santa Catalina: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — steep. The shallow area extends for 5 metres from the shore. Bottom — stones. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The steep entry requires extra care, especially with children.
Playa Santa Catalina: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — stones. Sand colour — grey. Texture — medium. Beach length — 500 metres.
Playa Santa Catalina: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in April. It ends in November. The best month for a holiday is April. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Santa Catalina: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Santa Catalina: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: stingrays, mosquitoes, sandflies. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Santa Catalina: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, toilets, parking, Wi-Fi, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Santa Catalina: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming. A first aid station is available.
Playa Santa Catalina: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Santa Catalina Restaurants, Local cevicherías, Surf camp restaurants. Cuisines available: Panamanian, Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Santa Catalina: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Water shoes, Headwear, Cash (Panamanian balboa).
Playa Santa Catalina: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for surfing is from April to November when the waves are most powerful. For swimming, it is best to choose calm days. In the morning the waves are most consistent.
Playa Santa Catalina: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is allowed only in the designated area. Exercise caution due to strong currents and rocks on the bottom. Take all litter with you.
Playa Santa Catalina: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Santa Catalina: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for surfers of all levels, especially experienced ones seeking powerful waves. Suitable for diving and eco-tourism enthusiasts. Not suitable for families with small children or those seeking calm swimming.
Playa Santa Catalina: what makes this beach unique?
Santa Catalina is considered the surf capital of Panama. La Punta beach is a point break with powerful waves up to 9 metres that break both right and left. International competitions, including the ISA World Championship, have been held here. Boats depart from here to Coiba National Park, home to whale sharks and humpback whales.
Playa Santa Catalina: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: One of Panama-s best surf spots with powerful and consistent waves, Waves up to 9 metres at La Punta peak, Main gateway to Coiba National Park (UNESCO site), Developed infrastructure: restaurants, hotels, dive centres, Picturesque sunsets, Free entry, Opportunity for whale and dolphin watching. Cons: Strong waves and currents, unsafe for weak swimmers, The beach is not very suitable for families with small children, Limited infrastructure: a few restaurants and hotels, Parking can be limited, Mosquitoes and sandflies in the evening.
Playa Santa Catalina: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Coiba National Park, La Punta Peak, Playa Brava, Santa Catalina Village. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Santa Catalina: how do I get to the city of Santa Catalina?
The beach is located near the city of Santa Catalina. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Santa Catalina.