Catalina's Hideaway

Hosting my seventh retreat, I’ve worked with a variety of retreat centers, and this was by far the best experience yet. From the moment we arrived, the team’s attention to detail, warmth, and dedication made everything seamless. Their genuine care for our group allowed us to drop in deeply to our experience without distraction. For those planning a retreat in Panama, I highly recommend spending a night in Casco Viejo before traveling down to Santa Catalina. Exploring the historic charm, vibrant culture, and rich energy of the city created the perfect transition. By the time we arrived at the retreat center, we were grounded and fully present. The opening ceremony set a powerful tone for the week ahead, and from there, everything unfolded with ease. The retreat center itself is an absolute sanctuary—nestled on the ocean, with breathtaking views, a tranquil atmosphere, and thoughtfully designed spaces that encourage both connection and introspection. The food was beyond delicious—fresh, nourishing, and crafted with such care that every meal felt like a gift. The staff was incredibly helpful, going above and beyond to ensure every detail was taken care of, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience. We also had the pleasure of joining a workshop led by Anthea and Ryan, which added another beautiful dimension to our time there. With so many additional options for healing and unique experiences, this retreat center truly offers something special. I left feeling deeply inspired and grateful—and I cannot wait to return!"*

My husband and I stayed here for several nights and had an excellent experience. The grounds are clean, well cared for, and gorgeous. We ate most of our meals here as it was our favorite place to eat. The breakfast was excellent and the dinner was out of this world. The staff went above and beyond to help us and make us feel comfortable and at home. Brendan, Nick, and all the other employees were friendly, helpful, and made our trip extra enjoyable. The owner went out of her way to give us recommendations and helped us arrange many outside excursions we went on with people she knew. This was one of our best vacations yet due to the staff at the hotel. They also arranged our transport to and from the city. It was a great experience.

I’d give Catalina’s Hideaway more stars if I could. Ryan and Anthea have created an amazing space to relax, experience and feed the soul. From the moment we got there, greeted with cool towels after our long drive, we were cared for like family. Anthea, Olga and Nick—all the staff, really—went out of their way to make sure our experience surpassed expectation. I was there for an Embodied Leadership retreat but there were options to add various activities if we wanted. On arrival we signed up for what we wanted and had opportunity to meet with staff individually to talk over any questions. They went to work scheduling our requests around previously scheduled retreat activities. I feel I should mention there were 9 of us on this retreat, 9 lists of requested activities, some of which weren’t offered in the signup. The next day we were given our individual schedules. It was like the old-school Fantasy Island sans Ricardo Montalban’s judgment. (Anthea, Olga and Nick as a much preferred version of Mr. Roarke and Tattoo) Ryan and Anthea are very involved locally and have sought out and vetted the various service providers to work with in order to give their guests the best experience. We truly appreciated that involvement with the local community rather than the walled-off feeling of separation from locals one gets at some resorts. We did all the things! While I went to Catalina’s Hideaway on a retreat, my husband tagged along for the beach, surfing and he’d hoped for fishing. Surf fishing in Panama wasn’t what he was used to in Florida, he was a little bummed. We asked about fishing in the area and were given several options. Anthea called her son over at dinner one night to give my husband tips on fishing in the property’s pond, shrimp was provided for surf fishing and we were sent on a mangrove tour (the captain being a local fisherman who offered to take my husband fishing again any time). Oh—the food. You just have to experience this. Anthea and Jose absolutely have to put out a cookbook. We’ve only been home for a day and are already missing the food (and the space, the pool, the daily yoga, the weather —the whole vibe…) I’ve said a lot, I could say so much more but one really just needs to experience this place. Give yourself the gift Catalina’s Hideaway offer their guests.

Fantastic spot for families - designed with them in mind. We stayed in Ginger, one of the beach front casitas. Loft was great for our two kids. Loved the complimentary yoga class, SUP, and the food was delicious. The hotel is about 20 minutes from Santa Catalina, which makes it quiet and secluded but not too far from where all the dive/snorkel shops are located. Rooms were beautifully decorated. I think a three or four night stay here would be ideal - we stayed three and that was perfect for our family. There were a couple drawbacks beyond the control of the hotel operators and owners. Bugs can be horrible in the evening and its beachfront is on a bay so no body surfing/surfing. It's more like a lake.

Catalina's Hideaway is an absolute must for anyone travelling to Panama. This property is incredible. Starting with our casita, it had everything we needed and more. We enjoyed a super comfy king bed, hot shower and had our own mini oasis of a balcony that had a hammock, tea/coffee station and a relaxing view of the of the pond. We spent a ton of time in their gorgeous pool and in the surrounding cabanas plus they offered paddle boards and convenient shuttles to town for surfing and further exploration. The food at the restaurant is some of the best eats we had in all of Panama - kudos to the incredible chef. Lastly, the staff is incredibly kind and eager to provide helpful guidance and recommendations. I couldn't recommend this place any more.

Staying at the hideway in Santa Catalina felt like being welcomed into a family. Antheas and Ryan are two incredible people who are sharing their dream, and you can feel that passion in every corner of the place. The food was absolutely incredible – the chef is truly talented, and the staff are the sweetest! The vibe here is unlike anything else. From the amazing music that plays all the time to the small, beautiful details in every room, you feel the love and care that went into creating this space. The beds were so comfortable, and the rooms were perfect – every detail thoughtfully designed. Whether you're bringing your kids, your partner, or your friends, Hideway is for everyone. We didn't want to leave, and we can't wait to return. It's truly a slice of paradise!