Panama

Compared to other Central American surf powerhouse destinations like Costa Rica and Nicaragua, Panama is often overlooked. Sure, Panama doesn’t get the same intense swells that are bestowed upon Costa by the ocean gods, but there’s something here that makes it a contender for the best surf destination in the area: variety. 

There’s an incredible mix of beach breaks, reef breaks and point breaks that will keep any surfer interested and coming back for more. Plus, it’s possible to surf both Atlantic and Pacific waves all on the same day, which any surfer would agree is quite the accomplishment.

Panama surfing quick facts

Most important first

The destination

Country

Panama

Region

Central America

Language

Spanish (official), English

Population

4M

Temperature, land

25-30 °C

Water temperature

Around 28 °C

Visa

30 days for most countries

Daily budget

$60 and up

The surfing

Number of waves

26

Surf level

Beginner, Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, Pro

Surf camp cost

$900 and up

Hotel cost

$80 and up

Board rental cost

$20 and up

Surf lesson cost

$50 and up

B&B cost

$50 and up

Latest Panama surfing guides

Insider guides to surfing in Panama

Local details

Internet

90 Mbps

Safety

Okay

Family friendly

Okay

Healthcare

Okay

Nightlife

Good

Walkability

Okay

Dinner

$8 up

Beer

$4 up

Traffic

Okay

Electricity

115V, 60Hz

Popular areas of Panama

The best areas of Panama

Latest surf camps in Panama

Explore cream of the crop surf camps for your next surf trip

Latest surf stays in Panama

Hotels, villas, apartment, anything goes – as long its close to a break

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