Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Oasis Surf Camp
CABIN $
( 6588-7077;
www.oasissurfcamp.com
;
camping per person US$10, d with fan/air-con US$40/
50, ste US$150; )
This Italian-run surf camp has long been a staple of Santa
Catalina and its beachfront setting is one of the best. Bright multicolor cabins overlook-
ing the black-sand beach have adequate facilities including hot showers and ample ham-
mocks. The new star suite is a two-bedroom wooden house with a kitchen and great bal-
cony views.
Breakfast and authentic Italian meals with fish, bruschetta and salads are served at the
open-air restaurant. You can also rent a variety of surfboards (US$10 to US$15). It's 2km
from Santa Catalina's main road, on Playa Estero near the mouth of the river. Closed
October.
Time Out
CABIN $$$
( 6617-1692;
www.cabanastimeout.com
;
d US$119; )
Geared at upscale surf bums,
North American-run Time Out boasts Santa Catalina's nicest rooms on the water, in
front of the coveted point break. New cabins are tasteful and well equipped, with LCD
TV, air-con and hot water. In addition to the onsite resto-bar (and room service) there's a
hammock hut with views and a sparkling freshwater pool.
Hotel Santa Catalina
HOTEL $$$
(Kenny's; 6871-4847;
www.hotelsantacatalinapanama.com
; d/tr/q US$70/75/80; )
With manicured grounds strewn with hammocks and Spanish-tile roofs, this newer hotel
is a strong midrange option. Tile rooms somewhat crowded with beds feature electric
hot-water showers and individual lockers for gear. A big draw is the surft break out front.
Guests get free use of kayaks, bicycles and foam boards and there's onsite dining.
Surfside Inn
HOTEL $$$
(
www.surfsidepanama.com
;
dm US$15, d US$44-55; )
Killer views of the surf break are
the first thing that grabs you. Room prices vary depending on the view and amenities like
hot water. There's free coffee and a guest kitchen. We hope to see better days for this
spot, as it's under new management, but we found it disheveled and a bit broken down
(mind the stairs!).
Eating
There are several places in town and on the beach where you can buy excellent fresh fish
to prepare yourself. There are also a number of small shops that sell basic groceries.
