The Surf Window

Santa Catalina

Veraguas, Panama

Point breakAdvanced

Panama's premier surf destination, Santa Catalina is a remote right-hand point break on the Veraguas coast that fires on south swells and has earned an international reputation for quality, powerful waves.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)

Wind

N

Offshore

Tide

mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

July–August

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Right (primary)

Bottom

Rock and sand

Shape

Long, powerful right, walling sections with hollow moments on quality south swells, multiple reefs to choose from

Length

100–300m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Advanced
  • •Why: Rocky reef, powerful wave, and a remote location (rough 4WD access road) demand experience.

Hazards

  • •Rocky reef and boulders
  • •Strong rip current alongside the point
  • •Remote location, rough road access (4WD essential)
  • •Limited medical facilities

Local Tips

  • •Santa Catalina is the jumping-off point for Coiba Island National Park, one of the world's best diving destinations and home to hammerhead sharks, rays, and whale sharks.
  • •The town is small and authentic, no nightlife, just surfing, fishing, and extraordinary nature.

Location

Map showing the location of Santa Catalina in Veraguas, Panama

7.8478, -81.2836