Coiba National Park, Panama
Panama’s Crown Jewel
A Wild World Just off Shore
Often called the Galápagos of Central America, Coiba National Park is a protected marine reserve off Panama's Pacific coast, reached by boat from Santa Catalina. Remote islands, coral reefs and some of the richest marine life in the Pacific make it one of the most unforgettable day trips in Central America.
UNESCO
World Heritage Site
270,000+
Hectares Protected
760
Species of Marine Fish
33
Species of Sharks
A Different World Beneath the Surface
Snorkel
Explore secluded islands, coral reefs, and clear Pacific waters while discovering the incredible marine life that makes Coiba so special.
Dive
From experienced divers to travelers interested in their first Discovery Dive, local dive operators offer experiences for a range of skill levels—including certification opportunities.
Explore
The experience goes beyond what's underwater. Spend the day moving between remote islands, beaches, and snorkeling sites in one of Panama's most remarkable natural environments.
Private Coiba Tours & Group Trips
Prefer the day to yourselves? For guests of Catalina's Hideaway, we can arrange a private boat for your family, friends or retreat group, built around what you love: snorkeling, diving, island-hopping, or a mix. Bringing a retreat or group booking? We'll coordinate the whole outing, from timing and boats to lunch on the islands.
When to See Coiba's Big Wildlife
WHALE SHARKS
December–April
Peak: January–March
HAMMERHEAD SHARKS
April–July
Peak: April–May
MANTA RAYS
March–May
Possible through November
HUMPBACK WHALES
July–October
Peak: August–September
*Coiba is alive with marine life year-round, but some of its most spectacular visitors are seasonal. Sea turtles, white-tip reef sharks, rays, dolphins and huge schools of reef fish are around all year. Sightings are never guaranteed, but timing your trip right gives you the best chance.
Snorkeling at Coiba National Park
You don't need to be a diver to experience Coiba. Snorkeling trips take you through clear Pacific water to colorful reefs, with sea turtles, rays and schools of tropical fish, plus stops at secluded island beaches along the way.
Scuba Diving at Coiba National Park
Coiba is one of the Pacific's great dive destinations, with rocky pinnacles, reefs and big marine life. Experienced divers can explore with professional local operators, and newcomers can try a Discovery Dive or work toward certification during their stay. Dive sites depend on your level and conditions at sea.
Your Home Base for Coiba
Stay at Catalina's Hideaway and Coiba is an easy day out. We'll shuttle you to your operator in town in the morning, arrange a private boat if you'd like one, and have the pool, a sunset drink and a chef-prepared dinner waiting when you get back. Our beachfront casitas are just outside town, far enough for peace and quiet and close enough for early starts. Coming to surf too? See our guide to surfing in Santa Catalina.
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Coiba is reached by boat from Santa Catalina, about a 1 to 1¼-hour ride. Trips run on pangas, small open boats that keep tourism in the park low-impact.
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A full day. Plan to arrive at the dive shop or tour operator in town by 8am, and you'll be back on shore around 4–5pm.
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Not at all. Snorkeling trips are a great way to see Coiba's marine life, and first-timers can try an introductory Discovery Dive with a local operator.
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Coiba is beautiful year-round. December to April (dry season) brings sunny days and whale shark season, while July to October brings humpback whales. See our wildlife calendar above for more.
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Prices vary by operator, trip type, and whether you join a group or book a private boat. National park fees are paid separately. Our team can walk you through current options.
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You can see land the entire ride, which helps. But if you're prone to seasickness, we recommend taking Dramamine before you go, just in case.
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Sunscreen (reef-safe if possible), a hat and a rash guard are highly recommended. The Pacific sun is strong out on the water.
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We offer a shuttle for a small fee from the Hideaway to your tour operator in town.
Can Catalina's Hideaway book a private Coiba tour?
Yes, for our guests. We can arrange a private boat for your family, friends or group, with lunch on the islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to See Coiba?
Book your stay and tell us how you'd like to experience Coiba: snorkeling, diving, a private boat, or a mix. We'll help plan the rest.
Already staying with us? Plan your Coiba adventure →