Chiriquí Surf Guide

A beautiful area full of tropical islands, perhaps one of the prettiest places you can surf in Central America.

Quick Facts

Mostly private islands

Best accessed by a surf camp or hotel

Beautiful and still under-the-radar

Reef and beach breaks

Surf Season in Chiriquí

The Gulf of Chiriqui experiences swells much like the rest of south-facing Pacific Coast in Central America. Although you may find surf year round, the summer months are when it will be firing best. During the rainy season, you’ll get solid reef breaks in Chiriqui and a few smaller beach breaks great for beginners.

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Where to Surf in Chiriquí

The Gulf of Chiriqui is full of small islands. You can surf here if you can get a ride in a boat, but the best way would be to stay at one of the surf camps or hotels located on these islands (more on that below).

  • 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

Surf Camps and Classes in Chiriquí

As mentioned, the best way to surf in Chiriqui is to go with a surf camp or hotel. Here are a few options we recommend checking out:

  • Surfer Paradise Surf Camp - Located on a private island, Surfer Paradise has awesome options for surfers of all levels. They can take you to many different breaks, they feed you, have snorkeling gear, and have cabanas overlooking the Pacific. They offer 12 day camps, 9 day camps, 8 day camps, and weeklong camps.

  • Morro Negrito Surf Camp - One of the oldest surf camps in the area, Morro Negrito is on a private island where you will find completely empty waves to surf on. Every little island to the south has unique waves and breaks to offer surfers of all levels.

panama surfing

More Panama Surf Spots

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