Is Santa Catalina, Panama the Best-Kept Secret for Surf & Yoga Retreats (Better Than Bali or Costa Rica?)

If you’re dreaming of sun-drenched surf sessions and soul-refreshing yoga flows, chances are you’ve googled retreats in Bali, Costa Rica or even Sri Lanka. These hotspots are well-known, well-loved, and, well… maybe a little too crowded these days.

But what if we told you there’s a place that’s flying under the radar — offering uncrowded world-class waves, jungle-backed beaches, and daily yoga with an ocean breeze — all without the crowds and over-tourism?

Welcome to Santa Catalina, Panama, home to Waluaa Surf & Yoga — your new favorite retreat destination.

🌴 The Big Names: Bali, Costa Rica, Portugal… We’ve All Heard Them

Let’s be real — there’s a reason these countries top the list.

• Bali offers a deep spiritual culture, jungle temples, and thriving yoga hubs like Ubud and Canggu.

• Costa Rica is a favorite for its “Pura Vida” vibe, howler monkeys in the trees, and solid surf across both coasts.

• Portugal is perfect for a summer surf mission and long beach days on the Atlantic.

But lately?…

They’re packed. Yoga studios with 30+ mats shoulder to shoulder. Surf breaks with 50 people battling for one wave. Prices are rising, and the once-laid-back vibes are being replaced with influencer fatigue and overbuilt resorts.

🌊 Enter: Santa Catalina, Panama

Tucked away on Panama’s Pacific Coast, Santa Catalina is one of those places people whisper about like a secret they’re trying to keep.

• Uncrowded, consistent surf — including La Punta, a legendary point break. And don’t forget Estero Beach, perfect for all levels

• Wild, natural beauty — think jungle paths, empty beaches, black-sand beaches and turquoise waters

• A walkable, quiet surf town — no tourist traps, just chill cafés and hammocks, local vibes everywhere

• Gateway to Coiba National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and diver’s paradise. See our blog about Coiba here!

Oh, and did we mention… the sunsets? 🔥

🌿 Why Waluaa Surf & Yoga Is Next-Level

At Waluaa, it’s not about cookie-cutter retreat schedules or maxing out the guest list. It’s about creating a sacred space for connection — with yourself, nature, and the community around you.

Here’s what makes Waluaa stand out:

• 🧘‍♀️ Daily yoga classes on a dreamy ocean-view deck (think golden hour flows, breath synced with the tides) that enhance your well-being and surfing practice, not compete

• 🏄‍♂️ Surf coaching for all levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned rippers, with beach breaks to level up all surfer types. Plus, a smaller ratio of instructors to surfers, so you’re instructions are super personalized

• 🥥 Fresh, locally-sourced meals — plant-based, nourishing, made with love

• 🌎 Eco-conscious ethos — plastic-free, low-impact, community-driven

• 👯‍♀️ Small group retreats — real connections, not just bodies in a room

🔗 Check out our upcoming retreats here
🔗 The official Waluaa Surf & Yoga Retreat Packing List – For All Surf Trips!