A marvellous repository of avian fauna at the mouth of the San Pablo and San Pedro Rivers, the watery world of the Montijo Gulf supports not only large flocks of waterfowl but also crocodiles and mammals. Waves crashing onto beaches along the southern shores are nirvana to surfers. This region is as poor as any in Panama and simple fishing villages eke out a living from the sea.

Wrapped in mangroves and marshy wetlands, the isle-studded gulf encompasses the Gulf of Montijo Wetlands, approximately 1,400 square kilometres of coastal maritime ecosystems that include extensive tidal mudflats and the gulf waters between the east and west shores.

On the west shore, a rolling road penetrates to Playa Santa Catalina. A Funky favourite of the backpacking, surfing crown, Santa Catalina has the buzz of a region that is on the cusp of realizing its tourism potential.