Surfing in Panama
We think Panama will be the next big country in the surf world. Tons of beautiful waves, incredible nature, small towns, and super friendly locals.
Nicaragua is known to be a top surf spot, and for good reason. From the powerful DOH waves at the Outer Reef of Popoyo, to Beginner’s Bay in the same town, Nicaragua really has it all. With its southeast facing coastline, the shallow and deep reefs in Nicaragua can create both hollow and steep waves and mushy but powerful waves perfect for beginners and intermediates. Some breaks are harder to get to than others, but most are still relatively uncrowded. As it takes its place as a serious surfing nation, we expect things to develop more and breaks to see more crowds.
Overview
Still relatively quiet and undeveloped
A few super consistent waves
Plenty of surf camps and schools
Incredible nature, jungle, and ocean
Beginner Waves
Advanced Waves
Surf Camps
Surf Season in Panama
Surf season in Panama is generally in the summer/wet months from April to October. The exception is Playa Venao, which is actually better during the winter or dry season. In general, the waves will be much bigger and cleaner in Panama during the summer months, while the winter months will still offer smaller swells with less consistency. However, places like Santa Catalina with the multiple reefs and breaks remain strong waves in year-round.
Other Things to Do in Panama
Panama is a lovely place. Panama City is bustling and active, with tons of history and things to do. Most notably, there’s the Panama Canal. Outside the city, you can find some of the most beautiful, untouched nature in Central America. There’s amazing diving in Coiba National Park, whitewater rafting in the highlands of Chiriqui, and a super unique Afro-Panamanian culture in the city of Portobelo. If you’re going to Panama to surf, it’s definitely worth booking an extra day or two to see a few other things in our opinion. Every time we’ve been to Panama, we leave with things we wanted to see but didn’t have time to.
