Most people visit Santa Catalina to go surfing or to head to Coiba Island. However, there is much more to do in this town, such as taking a kayak excursion to Santa Catalina Island—often referred to as “la islita” (the little island). It is completely uninhabited, which means that, in practice, you will be visiting a private island, as you are very likely to be the only tourist there. It is recommended to bring food and drinks, as there are no facilities on the island.
The best time to visit Santa Catalina Island is during low or mid-tide, as this ensures more beach area is exposed. At high tide, the water covers the beach, leaving very little space. It is a beautiful, expansive beach with white sand, turquoise waters, and lush tropical vegetation. The back side of Santa Catalina Island is rocky.
You can kayak around the island and even stop for some snorkeling, as there are rocky areas at both ends that are well-suited for it. If the sun becomes too intense, you can seek shelter under the palm trees. Santa Catalina Island also serves as a nesting site for sea turtles. You can explore the island around the rock formations and observe the local wildlife, including various bird species.
The kayak trip to the island typically takes between thirty-five minutes and an hour—the same for the return journey—so make sure you have suitable physical conditions. It is possible to rent single or double kayaks; the latter have the capacity for two adults and one child. Alternatively, you can simply paddle along the coastline. While this is a self-guided experience, you won’t be completely isolated, as there are often other boats in the area. The best time for this excursion is at sunset, when the sky is painted in beautiful shades of orange, yellow, and pink.
Kayak to Santa Catalina Island
Most visitors to Santa Catalina often go for surfing or to visit Coiba Island, but the town offers more activities, such as kayaking to the uninhabited Santa Catalina Island, known as “la islita.” This island is best visited during low to mid-tide for optimal beach area. The island features pristine white sand and turquoise waters, with opportunities for snorkeling around its rocky ends. The kayak trip to the island takes 35 minutes to an hour, and you can rent single or double kayaks. While it’s a self-guided trip, you may encounter other boats, especially advisable to go during the scenic sunset hours.
Trip Highlights
- Kayak to an uninhabited island; you’ll likely be the only visitor.
- White-sand beach, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and tropical vegetation.
- Dazzling sunsets in which the sky is adorned with shades of orange, yellow, and pink.
