Best Beginner Surf Spots in Panama

Panama has a ton of worthy waves, and some beautiful locations to learn to surf or practice as a beginner.

The Best Beginner Spots

Chiriqui

  • Crowds - No

  • Surfer Level - All

  • Ideal Swell - S/SW

  • Ideal Wind - NE, Light

  • Break Type - Reef and Beach

  • Consistency - 70%

  • Be Aware: Reefs and rocky bottom in parts

Playa Venao

  • Crowds - Sometimes

  • Surfer Level - Beginner, Intermediate

  • Ideal Swell - S/SW

  • Ideal Wind - NE, Light

  • Break Type - Beach

  • Consistency - 70%

  • Be Aware: Nada!

Chiriqui

chiriqui panama

Located on the Pacific Coast, the Gulf of Chiriqui is a stunning place to surf. The gulf is chalk full of beautiful private islands. You can reach these islands and waves via boat or stay right on the island to have the best access to the waves on offer. The thing about Chiriqui is the quantity of waves. There are quality waves here, but the quantity is outstanding. Each little island and reef has its own break, so there’s almost always a spot nearby with waves to surf. The reef breaks provide solid intermediate waves, while the beaches are full of smaller whitewash and beginner waves.

Playa Venao

playa venao panama surf

Playa Venao is our other favorite place in Panama for beginners to surf. Unlike many other places, it is generally best in the dry season or winter. During the mornings in Playa Venao, the light winds blow offshore to create beautiful waves. The ground is soft sand, without any rocks or reef. When it does get a little bigger, it’s a great place to learn to turn and make moves without worrying about getting hurt. It’s one of the safest spots to surf with the deep water and soft sand.

If you have any questions about the right surf spot for you or your friends/family, reach out. We’re happy to help you find the best beginner surfing spot in Panama for your needs and highlight what each place has to offer.

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