Santa Catalina
Santa Catalina is Panama's premier surf destination—a long right-hand point break in a remote fishing village on the Pacific coast. The wave wraps around a rocky headland, offering multiple sections that can connect for rides of 200+ meters on the right swell. Getting here is an adventure (5+ hours from Panama City), but the sleepy village vibe, consistent waves, and proximity to Coiba National Park (world-class diving) make it worth the journey. Panama's best-kept surf secret.
Santa Catalina surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SSW (200°)
- Direction range
- 180° - 240°
- Size range
- 1m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.9m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Offshore range
- 0° - 90°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 1.5m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
4/10
Access: 5hr drive from Panama City.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Santa Catalina?
The Santa Catalina profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.5m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Santa Catalina?
The Santa Catalina profile uses wind from NE (45°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 0° to 90°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Santa Catalina?
The Santa Catalina scoring profile favors swell from SSW (180° to 240°), a swell-height range of 1m to 3m, and a reference period of 16s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Santa Catalina?
The main season at Santa Catalina is Apr-Oct. S-SW swell season. Very consistent.
How do I get to Santa Catalina?
The spot profile lists PTY as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 300 minutes. 5hr drive from Panama City.
What kind of wave is Santa Catalina?
Santa Catalina is a point break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Apr-Oct
S-SW swell season. Very consistent.
Getting There
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