COIBA NACIONAL PARK
WILD LIFE
Coiba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure.”
is one of the last untouched sanctuaries of the Eastern Pacific.
Draped in emerald rainforest and surrounded by crystalline waters, it offers a rare glimpse into a world where nature still reigns freely.
Beneath the surface, vibrant reefs welcome snorkelers and divers into a realm alive with sea turtles, manta rays, playful dolphins, reef sharks, whale sharks in season, and shimmering schools of tropical fish. On its shores, howler monkeys, crocodiles, and exotic birds complete this extraordinary symphony of wild beauty
To discover in snorkeling or scubadiving.
more informations at NUKUMI CLUB.
—”an otherworldly escape found nowhere else on Earth.”
SURF
Santa Catalina is one of Panama’s most iconic surf destinations
home to world-class waves shaped by the Pacific’s raw energy.
La Punta, famed for its powerful right-hand break, attracts surfers from every corner of the globe.
From sunrise sessions to golden-hour rides, the rhythm of the ocean defines the spirit of this coast.
And for those seeking effortless access to the action, Nukumi Club enjoys the closest location to the public entrance of La Punta.
—”A serene retreat for surfers who want both thrill and tranquillity in perfect balance.”
WHERE GET A DRINKS
Santa Catalina’s nightlife is laid-back and soulful, offering charming spots where the ocean breeze meets the clink of glasses
*THIRD DOOR* its a new fancy bar who is situated in the heart of catalina on the *manifest collective* square, where you have also different food spot.
*Tiki Bar & Restaurant* is a local favorite, with its tropical tiki-style setting and hammocks that bring travelers together after a day on the waves.
*Oasis BEACH BAR* offers beachfront drinks with a relaxed vibe.
—perfect for sipping a cold cocktail while watching the sunset paint the Pacific. For a more social and cultural atmosphere.
WHERE to seek flavor
Santa Catalina has a relaxed, open-air dining culture, with many restaurants set along the roads or near the coast.
*SURFER PARADISE* is a tranquil, open-air restaurant serving fresh traditional juices,, ocean-to-table lunch wholesome with ocean views.
perfect for fueling a surf lunch break..
For freshly baked pastries,pizzas, croissants and quality espresso
*la piccola panaderia* is the cutest and cozy italian bakery you’ll soon call your ritual stop with the adorable baker , Desiré .
*Sugar Mamas* Café delights with homemade cakes, avocado toast, and creative brunch options in a charming bakery-style setting.
There you can aslo order your own artisanal bread.
And for authentic PANAMANIAN gastronomic food, elaborate and RECIPES from all over the world, *Ai MAMAMITA*. A perfect place for having a romantic dinner
PARTY
Santa Catalina’s nightlife is intimate and vibrant, blending beach vibes with tropical beats under star-lit skies.
Oasis BEACH BAR” is the heart of weekend parties, hosting DJ nights and sunset gatherings right on the sand.
“BEYOND WAVES” often transforms after dark, with karaoke nights, and a friendly crowd of travelers and locals, they serves cocktails that keep the energy flowin with pool and table games.
And when the moon is bright and the tide is low, spontaneous beach bonfire parties bring everyone together for dancing, storytelling, and barefoot freedom until the tide come again.
ISLANDS
the coastline around Santa Catalina is dotted with smaller, untouched islands that feel like secret escapes waiting to be discovered.
*Isla Santa Catalina*
just offshore, offers calm waters ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling among colorful reef fish and sea turtles. Its quiet coves are perfect for a barefoot picnic or a swim in glass-clear turquoise shallows.(picture)
Further along the gulf, Big Island almost empty like *cebaco* or other tiny uninhabited islands like *Isla Teta de la Vaca* and *Isla Gobernadora* invite travelers into remote beaches, coastal trails, and fishing spots rich with marine life
— from dolphins and turtles, to old sail boat drift away from the waves on the rocks, These islands are havens for those seeking solitude, wild beauty, and moments where the only sound is the sea.
Exploring them by boat reveals hidden caves, pristine beaches, and waters teeming with life.
A free scenic footpath leads you up La Islita’s deserted heights, crossing wooden bridges and three ocean miradores where whales, wild flora, and interpretive signs reveal the island’s untouched magic
DAY'S ACTIVITIES
Days in Santa Catalina flow with effortless adventure
horseback rides through lush mangroves or along the coast on the beach, carving lines at the skatepark, and coastal walks to wild Punta Brava.
Beach volleyball and beer-pong keep the energy high, while DJ sunset sessions at *Oasis Beach Bar* set the perfect golden-hour vibe. Between surf breaks, ocean dips, and village wandering, you can join creative workshops like jewelry-making or artisanal soap crafting with *FANGO*.
—”Here, life flows in salt, freedom, and boho-coastal magic.”
OFF SEASON
in the low season,
Santa Catalina settles
into a calmer, more soulful pace.
— long rolling waves, quiet beaches, and warm tropical rains that invite slow living.
The ocean becomes a place of deep restoration, where surf sessions feel meditative and shoreline walks unfold in soft, misty light.
During this season, migrating humpback whales and their newborn calves grace the coastline, their gentle presence adding a sense of wonder and serenity to each day
—”It’s a time when Santa Catalina feels intimate, nurturing, and profoundly connected to the rhythms of nature.”
NEW YeaR
As December unfolds, Santa Catalina transforms into a magical seaside village.
Streets glow with warm lights, tropical decorations adorn cafés and shops, and the scent of flowers mingles with the ocean breeze. Locals and travelers celebrate the season with joy, music, and candlelight, creating an intimate and tropical festive spirit.
At Estero Beach, the New Year reaches its peak with the *Burning Woman* ceremony.
A more than 4-meter-tall wooden figure, built over months entirely by local and expatriate women, embodies gratitude, wishes, and letting go.
Around 400 people dance and gather at midnight, placing handwritten notes of thanks, intentions, and hopes on her palms leaf dress. As the fire consumes her, fireworks explode in the sky, illuminating the Pacific and marking the start of a tropical celebration.
The night continues at *Oasis Beach Bar*, with music and dancing under a starry sky, while Estero Beach glows with natural bioluminescence in the water. The celebration lasts until 4 AM, blending wild energy, soul-deep reflection, and the magic of a tropical New Year.
beach town
is Santa Catalina’s lively seaside hub
— just 500 m from Nukumi Club. This long, sandy shoreline is lined with cafés, tours company , and boats heading toward Coiba.
The water is almost always flat, perfect for swimming and relaxing, while surfing happens only rarely during big swells.
In the late afternoon, local children gather to play football on the sand after school, while visitors enjoy strolls along the waterfront and the golden sunset. Stop by *Pinguino Café* for a sunset beer or their famous langostino pasta.
—”town Beach blends relaxed charm, social energy, and the heart of Santa Catalina.”
estero beach
SANTA CATALINA PEACFULL ESCAPE
— a wide, natural ocean’s rim perfect for surfing, long walks, and glowing sunsets.
Its waves suit both beginners and intermediate surfers, with stronger currents depending on the ocean forecast.
At low tide, the beach reveals tide pools and soft sands where locals and travelers play football at sunset.
To reach Estero, you must cross the small river
— the only way in —
before enjoying horseback rides, relaxed beachside lunches, and even witnessing baby sea turtles hatching in December.
—”A calm, uncrowded paradise with a hint of adventure.”
bus hours santa catalina
# 🚌 **Quick Bus Guide to Santa Catalina**
**Soná ⇄ Santa Catalina**
Soná → Santa Catalina (Mon–Sat):
4:20 AM, 5:00 AM, 5:30 AM, 8:40 AM, 11:20 AM, 1:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 4:45 PM
*Santa Catalina → Soná (Mon–Sat):*
6:15 AM, 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 10:40 AM, 1:15 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:20 PM
**Sundays:**
* Soná → Santa Catalina: 5:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 1:30 PM, 4:30 PM
* Santa Catalina → Soná: 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 1:15 PM, 3:30 PM
**Panama City ⇄ Soná**
**Panama → Soná:**
1:00 AM, 4:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 4:00 PM
**Soná → Panama:**
8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:45 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:20 PM, 5:45 PM
*Soná ⇄ Santiago*
Frequent buses every 30–45 minutes all day.
private shuttle
# 🚐 **Santa Catalina Shuttle Guide**
**Santa Catalina → Panama City**
* Departure: 8:00 AM | Arrival: ~3:00 PM
* Price: ~$60 per person
* Amenities: A/C, Wi-Fi, water & soda
* Options: Shared & private
Local Private Service (Contact us to arange)
* Private minibus: ~$350
* Flexible schedule, choose pick-up/drop-off
* Amenities: reclining seats, A/C, water, luggage racks
* Stops available for bathroom/food
**Panama City → Santa Catalina**
* Departure: 8:00 AM | Arrival: ~3:00 PM
* Price: ~$60 per person
* Amenities: A/C, Wi-Fi, water & soda
* Options: Shared & private
PRIVATE oPTION
* Private minibus: ~$350 (bus capacity of 13 persons).
* Flexible schedule, choose pick-up/drop-off
* Amenities: reclining seats, A/C, water, luggage racks
* Stops available for bathroom/food
# 💡 Traveler Tips
* Book early, especially in high season
* Confirm pick-up and drop-off points
* Shared shuttles are cost-effective; private shuttles offer comfort and flexibility
* Travel light for an effortless ride
Travel in style, comfort, and peace
— your adventure begins the moment you board!
FLIGHT TO SANTA CATALINA
# ✈️ **Santa Catalina by Air — A Traveler’s Guide**
Skip the long drive and soar in style with a private charter from Albrook Airport (PAC), Panama City, to Lago Bay Airstrip (MPLY) ** in just 45 minutes**. From there, a 10-minute scenic drive delivers you to NUKUMI CLUB.
*Aircraft & Pricing*
*Cessna 172 (1–3 guests):** ~$840 (~$280/person if full)
*Aztec (1–5 guests):** ~$1,200 (~$240/person if full)
*Kodiak (1–9 guests):** ~$2,200 (~$244/person if full)
**Luxury Perks:*
Reclining seats, air conditioning, luggage space (~25 lb / 11 kg), flexible departures, and attentive service.
*Traveler Tips*
* Book in advance to secure your preferred aircraft and schedule.
* Confirm luggage limits and aircraft choice.
* Share the cost if flying full — affordable luxury.
*Why Fly?* This is more than transport,
— it’s a traveler’s experience. From takeoff to landing, the views of Panama’s coastline, lush forests, and sparkling waters are utterly unforgettable. Arrive ready to surf La Punta, explore Coiba, or relax in the refined comfort of Nukumi Club.
RENT A CAR IN PANAMA
Car Rental Guide — Panama City to Santa Catalina
Embark on your adventure with a private car rental from Tocumen Airport, Panama City, to the boho-paradise of Santa Catalina. The route is safe, fully paved, and perfect for night drives, giving you complete freedom to explore at your own pace.
*Recommended Agencies*
–Avis: Reliable compact cars from $6/day; insurance required.
–Alamo: Wide selection from compacts to SUVs, starting $7/day Competitive rates; ensure full coverage.
# Traveler Tips
* Reserve in advance to secure the best rate.
* Check luggage limits and insurance coverage.
* Document the car’s condition at pick-up.
* Enjoy stops along **scenic landscapes, quaint towns, and local cafés.
**Bonus at Nukumi Club**
Free parking available for all guests.
— a worry-free start and end to your journey.
With your car, you can discover hidden beaches, charming villages, and breathtaking views, making the drive to Santa Catalina an essential part of your coastal adventure.
