The 7 Best Surf Camps in Panama
Although it is relatively undeveloped, Panama is home to a ton of legit surf camps, amazing waves for all levels, and incredible nature experiences.
Why Panama?
Panama is probably the most underrated place to surf in Central America in our opinion. Home to amazing strong waves at Punta Burica and incredible wave selection at Santa Catalina, it really has it all. One of the great things about choosing Panama for your surf vacation is the amount of options you’ll have. The destinations are definitely relatively far from the airport, but the remote little towns and islands are rad. If you’re into nature, jungles, hiking, and diving, Panama should be at the top of your list for economic and beautiful surf camp destinations.
Chiriqui
Chiriqui is a gulf on the Pacific side of Panama. When the swells come in from the south or southwest, it can really pump. It’s best during rainy season, but you can find smaller and peakier waves during dry season as well. The breaks here are mainly reef breaks, along with some smaller beach breaks on the inside. The only way to surf here really is to either take a boat out to the waves, or stay on one of the islands. The gulf has several small islands, many of them privately owned by hotels and surf camps. It’s a seriously beautiful place to surf. The highlight in my opinion is that a surf camp in Chiriqui can take you to a dozen different breaks depending on your level, surf conditions, an preferences.
Surf Camps in Chiriqui
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.
Santa Catalina
Santa Catalina’s big selling point is that there are surfable waves nearly the entire year here. It probably is the most consistent surf in Panama, making it an ideal choice for surf camps in the country. In wet season you’ll find bigger and more powerful waves, especially in the mornings. But the dry season isn’t full of ankle biters either. Our recommendation is if you’re looking to go to a surf camp in Panama in the winter or outside the perfect wet season, Santa Catalina should be near the top of your list as it will offer the best waves.
Surf Camps in Santa Catalina
Rancho Estero - They have plenty of different surf camp options, as well as a surf school if you’re staying nearby. They also have a ton of boards of all types to rent. They have 4 day, 5 day, 6 day, and weeklong camps.
Los Arrieros Surf School - Another place that offers both surf classes/lessons and surf camps. Tons of boards to rent, and lessons for beginners and intermediates.
Waluaa Surf & Yoga - This is maybe the most high-end surf camp in the area. They have beautiful private bungalows, healthy meals, yoga and meditation classes, and much more.
Playa Venao
Playa Venao is another place to consider if you want to go to a surf camp in Panama in the dry season. Because of its southeastern facing location, it actually gets better swells in November, December, and January. In the summer you’ll find less consistency in the waves, but the swells that do come through are likely to be much bigger. In the winter, Playa Venao offers nice smooth waves and long rides.
Surf Camps in Playa Venao
Safari Hostel - Pretty straightforward surf camp. They include plenty of photos and videos, breakfast, and waves for basically all levels!
Selina Playa Venao - Selina is a fun place. There’s one where we live. These hostels are usually popping with a fun community, and the one in Playa Venao is no exception. They have 6 day, 8 day, and 11 day surf camps.
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