Surfing in
Santa Catalina, Panama
A Little Surf Town with a Big Reputation
Santa Catalina, on Panama's Pacific coast, is one of Central America's best-known surf towns, famous for La Punta's powerful right-hand reef break and consistent waves year-round. But you don't have to be an expert to enjoy it. With beginner-friendly beaches and great local instructors, it's just as good a place to catch your first wave.
The Hideaway Surf Camp
Make your stay a surf trip. Our 3- and 5-day surf camps pair you with some of Santa Catalina's best local instructors for real progress, whether you're catching your first wave or ready to level up.
3-Day Camp
Three 1.5-hour lessons
One video review session at the Hideaway, with a fresh juice or cold beer
Personalized coaching and feedback
5-Day Camp
Five 1.5-hour lessons
Two video review sessions at the Hideaway, with a fresh juice or cold beer
Personalized coaching and feedback
An ice bath recovery session
Both include: a surf mobility yoga class to loosen hips and shoulders and improve balance, board rental, transport to and from the break, and homemade post-surf fuel from our kitchen after every session. Beginner to intermediate, private or small group.
* Available exclusively to Hideaway guests. Pricing on request.
Santa Catalina's Surf Breaks
La Punta (intermediate to advanced)
Santa Catalina's world-class break: a long, powerful right over a rocky reef, with waves from 4 to 12 feet and bigger on the biggest swells. Best in the morning, when offshore winds clean it up.
Playa Estero (beginner to intermediate)
A wide beach break in a sheltered bay, and the best spot in town to learn. Most surf lessons start here.
Other breaks to explore
Experienced surfers can also try nearby reef breaks like Punta Brava and Punta Roca, both of which work best around low tide.
Looking for another kind of ocean adventure? Discover Coiba National Park →
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. Playa Estero has gentle, beginner-friendly waves, and local instructors teach there every day.
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Yes, boards are easy to rent in town, and we can arrange one for you, or include it with our surf camp.
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There are waves year-round. April to October brings the biggest, most consistent south swells and is prime time for experienced surfers. December to April tends to bring smaller, friendlier waves and sunny dry-season days, making it a great time for learning.
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About 15 minutes by car or shuttle. Our surf camp includes transport to and from the break.
Surf Santa Catalina, Stay at the Hideaway
Spend the morning chasing waves, then come home to a long lunch at Sobremesa, an afternoon by the pool, or a quiet evening in your private casita. At Catalina’s Hideaway, there’s plenty to enjoy beyond the surf.
Planning your trip? See How to Get Here →