[3] The first inhabitants of the region were the Negritos and hacheros (woodcutters) under Don Julián Astigarraga (Capitan Vasco 1854-1901[5]) of Aparri.

It is the home of the Cagayan Special Economic Zone and the Camilo Osias Naval Base in Barangay San Vicente.

Most of the commercial and industrial activities are at Port Irene as part of the Cagayan Special Economic Zone in Barangay Casambalangan.

Aside from the Cagayan Special Economic Zone which host casinos and other gaming facilities, Santa Ana has other scenic spots and historical landmarks.

It has hosted international decathlons, where athletes run through the rugged terrain of Punta Verde to Cape Engaño, then swim in the Philippine Sea.

Every year from May 26 to May 30, the town hosts the Viray Festival, organized by the local government with the support of the regional tourism office and the private sector.

[citation needed] A viray is a large, flat wooden boat which, before the emergence of gasoline-fed engines in the early 1950s, was propelled by sails.

Equipped with oars to reach nearby fishing grounds, these types sailed for longer distances.

[citation needed] Due to its capacity to carry great quantities of cargo, the viray was the only means of transport used by the first settlers of Santa Ana.

Leaders and well-off families gained income from the services of the viray, ranging from fishing, commerce and trading to means of transport during the years when Santa Ana was in its prime.

The second day of the festival features a grand carabao parade where each of the sixteen barangays composing the municipality take their turn to show off their artistic talents.

Beach volleyball players Charo Soriano and Filipino-American Alexa Micek won the third leg of the tournament.