Riding the Waves: Panama’s Surf-Tourism Thrives with Elite Competitions

In places like Santa Catalina, Panama’s tourism sector is riding the waves of success as world-class surfing competitions contribute to a booming surf-tourism industry. With recent events generating millions in tourism earnings and attracting global attention, Panama is positioning itself as a premier destination for surf enthusiasts. Discover how these competitions are making a significant impact on the local economy and promoting sustainable tourism in the country.

Elite competitions give further boost to Panama’s surf-tourism industry

By Rogelio Adonican Osorio

Santa Catalina, Panama, Jun 9 (EFE).

Excerpt: “World-class waves and the high-quality surfing they enable are proving to be major money makers for business people in Panama’s tourism sector.

Authorities in that Central American country are well aware of the situation and have been doing their utmost to promote that sport further with three big competitions on its coasts over a span of less than a year.

The recent 2023 Pan American Surfing Games (PASA Games 2023) in Panama’s Pacific region generated more than $2 million in tourism earnings, while yet another championship will be held next month in the country’s Caribbean region.

Held in Santa Catalina, a remote Pacific town filled with unpaved roads, the PASA Games in late April drew 400 surfers from 19 countries and was an economic bonanza for the local population.

The Panama Tourism Authority (ATP) said in a statement that event brought more than $2 million in revenue to that town and filled up its hotels to 100 percent capacity.

And the hope is it will see further benefits over the long term.”

Full Article: https://www.laprensalatina.com/elite-competitions-give-further-boost-to-panamas-surf-tourism-industry/amp/