Consistent waves offer good year-round surfing. Some breaks are suitable for beginners, while others are expert-only. Nowadays, it’s visited by international surfers and even hosts large competitions. Prior to this it was a small fishing village and only surfed by burly locals. Santa Catalina – considered by many to be the best and most reliable surf spot along the Pacific coast of Panama, Santa Catalina has seen a surge of interest over the last decade. They range from beginner-friendly to expert-only waves. The locations included here are relatively accessible and reliable.

There are other good spots along the Caribbean, but these tend to be difficult to reach. Panama’s most accessible surf spots are along the Pacific coast and in Bocas del Toro (on the Caribbean).

More popular spots like Santa Catalina (considered by most to be the best surf spot along the Pacific coast) can be relatively busy year-round. Crowds peak around the major holidays, including Semana Santa (the week surrounding Easter) and Christmas/New Year’s. Swells from the southwest come in during this time of year and last through May or June.Ĭrowds will depend on the place and conditions. Most of the swell is small and from the northwest.ĭuring the transition time at spring, especially in February and April, the wind can blow all day-this allows for afternoon surfing sessions. The weather during this time of year is sunny and the winds are light. The dry season (which lasts from mid-November through mid-April) isn’t as epic in spots like Santa Catalina, but some of Panama’s islands can still pick up nice western/northwestern swells.

During this time of year, the southwest swells are large and consistent-they sometimes get double or triple overhead at big breaks. The Pacific coast, however, also has sizable waves in July and August. This is one of the most popular times to surf in Panama. Along Panama’s Pacific coast, April to June usually sees daylong offshore winds and consistent swells from the southwest.

Panama family surf and body surf beach