Travel Thoughtfully. Stay Intentionally.
Luxury and sustainability don't have to exist in opposition. At Catalina's Hideaway, caring for this extraordinary corner of Panama isn't a marketing promise—it's simply part of how we host.
Our Commitment to This Place
When we first discovered this stretch of Panama's Pacific coast, we knew we wanted to create something special—but we also knew we had a responsibility to protect what was already here.
That commitment continues to guide every decision we make, from the materials we choose and the energy we use to the way we support our community and care for the surrounding landscape.
"The single biggest threat to our planet is the destruction of habitat and, along the way, loss of precious wildlife. We need to reach a balance where people, habitat, and wildlife can co-exist—if we don't, everyone loses."
— Steve Irwin
Our Everyday Practices
Thoughtful design
As we built the property, we intentionally partnered with companies that shared our values. Much of our handcrafted furniture was sourced through Indaba Trading, whose collections celebrate ethical craftsmanship and handmade design. Our pool features recycled glass mosaic tile from Onix Mosaico, one of Europe's leading sustainable tile manufacturers.
1
Powered by the Sun
Each day, more than 50 solar panels help power Catalina's Hideaway. During daylight hours, we operate primarily on solar energy, returning excess electricity back to the local grid. At night, we draw from the electrical system while our battery backup helps us avoid relying on noisy diesel generators during power outages.
Solar pathway lighting and energy-efficient LED fixtures throughout the property further reduce our environmental footprint while ensuring guests enjoy every modern comfort.
2
Every Drop Matters
Water is one of our most valuable resources. Our advanced septic and irrigation system safely reuses more than 90% of our wastewater to nourish the property's tropical gardens, reducing waste while helping preserve groundwater during Panama's long dry season.
Our drinking water comes directly from our own UV-filtered well, is regularly tested, and is safe to drink from the tap. We encourage guests to bring reusable water bottles to help eliminate unnecessary plastic waste.
3
Growing with Nature
Our gardens are designed to nourish both people and place. As you wander the property, you'll discover bananas, papayas, mangos, pineapples, avocados, herbs, peppers, tomatoes, aloe, and many other tropical plants growing naturally around you.
Our long-term goal is to supply Sobremesa with at least half of its produce directly from our gardens.
4
Reducing Waste
Small decisions can make a lasting impact. By providing refillable dispensers filled with biodegradable soaps and shampoos that are gentle on both our guests and our wastewater system.
We also separate plastic, aluminum, and glass for recycling and personally transport recyclable materials to one of the nearest processing facilities—a commitment we're proud to make despite limited recycling infrastructure in our region.
5
Working With Nature
Living in the jungle means sharing it with wildlife. Rather than relying on harsh chemical pesticides, we use environmentally responsible mosquito management systems that naturally target mosquitoes while minimizing impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
Our accommodations are also designed to embrace Panama's natural climate through cross-ventilation, shaded outdoor spaces, and ceiling fans. Every room includes air conditioning, but thoughtful design, cross ventilation, and ceiling fans mean many guests find themselves sleeping comfortably with nothing but the ocean breeze.
6
Supporting Our Community
Catalina's Hideaway wouldn't exist without the people who helped build it. Whenever possible, we hire locally, work with regional guides, purchase from nearby businesses, and collaborate with artisans and suppliers throughout our community.
Supporting local businesses, artisans, guides, and families isn't simply good business—it's part of being a good neighbor.
7
A Place Worth Protecting
We're always looking for ways to do better. Sustainability isn't a finish line—it's an ongoing commitment to thoughtful decisions, continuous improvement, and protecting the extraordinary landscape we're fortunate to call home.
By choosing Catalina's Hideaway, you're supporting a way of traveling that values people, place, and the landscapes that make adventures like yours possible.
Thank you for helping us care for this little corner of Panama.
8
Do you have any questions or tips?
Contact us at +507 6602-2274 or info@catalinashideaway.com

