Why Panama is the Ultimate Surf and Yoga Retreat Destination
When it comes to Surf and Yoga retreat destinations, Panama may not be on your radar. Due to its more southern location as the isthmus of North and South America, Panama is an often overlooked and underrated destination. What Panama lacks in proximity to the US, it makes up for in biodiversity, varied landscapes, two stunning coastlines, some of the best waves in the world, and, perhaps, the best coffee on the planet. If your passport doesn’t have a Panama stamp, it may be time to book a trip.
Our Panama Surf and Yoga retreat is located in the tranquil and wave-rich town of Santa Catalina on the country’s norwest Pacific coast. If you’re searching for an unforgettable destination close to nature and full of life for your next retreat, continue reading below for Why Panama is the Ultimate Surf and Yoga Retreat Destination.
There’s more to Panama than meets the eye
Panama is so much more than your tropical beach destination. Panama stretches and winds for hundreds of miles from the southern border of Costa Rica to the northernmost point of South America and the Colombian Amazon. Within its borders are tropical rain forests, active volcanoes, jungle-bound mountains, lively coral reefs, two dueling coastlines, hundreds of islands, and one of the most modern capitals in Latin America. Panama stands as a global capital of commerce and uses the US dollar as its currency, making travel seamless. Additionally, Panama City is an easy-to-reach destination with direct flights from over 84 cities in 36 countries, making Panama a surprisingly easy-to-reach destination for your next surf and yoga retreat.
Begin your surf and yoga retreat journey in one of the world’s commerce capitals
Panama City is not your typical capital. Your Panama surf and yoga retreat will likely begin with a flight to the capital city. So, why not enjoy the city for a night or two? The Panamanian capital is a blend of old and new world architectural and engineering wonders perched on a narrow strip of land overlooking the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. As a trade capital, Panama City is a global city with residents from all over the world. One of the many perks of Panama’s global reach is its diverse and exciting food scene. Beyond the skyscrapers, canal, and decadent food scene, Panama City is home to charming old-world colonial architecture in its Casco Viejo neighborhood. Staying in Casa Viejo feels like you're worlds away from the city, despite being surrounded by it.
Two coastlines for the price of one
Panama’s two Coastlines on the Caribbean and Pacific make the country a uniquely appealing travel destination for surfers, divers, and beachgoers alike. The jewel of Panama’s Caribbean coast is Bocas del Toro, an archipelago with pristine surf and crystal-clear water. Bocas del Toro is a hot spot for winter swells and a lively travel destination with the soul of the Caribbean. The Panama Pacific coast winds and weaves, creating world-class surf spots along the entire coastline. Of Panama’s many Pacific coast breaks, Santa Catalina’s famed right-hand point takes the cake as the nation’s premier surf spot. Just south of the point break, the beach break known as Playa Estero, serves as a beginner and intermediate surfers paradise where our Panama surf and yoga retreats teach our surf lessons.
An under the radar island paradise is waiting just offshore
Just off the coast of Santa Catalina, Panama, lies Panama’s hidden tropical paradise, Coiba Island. Coiba Island was a penal colony for over 100 years that had little contact with the outside world. Because of its isolated development, the island’s wildlife flourished and evolved uniquely. Today, Coiba Island is home to endemic species on land and in the water. Additionally, it is one of the world’s most bountiful dive locations, with an abundance of marine life and a large whale shark population. With electric blue water that’s reminiscent of the Caribbean, Coiba Island is an oasis in the middle of the Pacific, just a short boat ride away from our surf and yoga retreat in Santa Catalina, and optional excursion that’s included in each of our retreat weeks. Daily trips are available for Diving or Snorkeling in this island paradise.
The team at Waluaa provides truly memorable surf and yoga retreats in beautiful Santa Catalina, Panama. With professional and personalized surf and yoga instruction in small group settings. Immerse yourself in the natural wonder of Panama’s most charming beach town, with world-class diving and surfing at your doorstep.
BLOG BY WALUAA CONTRIBUTOR; MORGAN BERNARD
Morgan Bernard is a US-based surf and travel writer/ travel business owner who has worked with the top publications in the surf, travel, and outdoor spaces, like Stab Mag, the Inertia, Tracks Magazine, and many more. In addition to his work as a journalist, Morgan runs a digital marketing and creative agency specializing in surf and the outdoors.
