Panama and Costa Rica are two of the most popular surfing destinations in the world, and for good reason. With their long coastlines, consistent swells, and diverse range of breaks, they offer something for surfers of all levels. In this write-up we’ll look at Surfing in Panama and Costa Rica.
Surfing in Panama
Panama is located at the narrowest point of Central America, with coastline on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. This gives Panama a unique surfing experience, with different conditions on each side of the country.
On the Pacific coast, Panama is known for its long point breaks, which are perfect for experienced surfers. Some of the most popular surf spots on the Pacific coast include:
- Santa Catalina: Santa Catalina is a small fishing village on the Azuero Peninsula that has become a world-renowned surf destination. The town is home to a number of point breaks, including Punta Roca, which is one of the longest left-hand waves in the world. Santa Catalina hosts a number of surf competitions throughout the year, including the World Surf League (WSL) Qualifying Series (QS) 1,000-point event and the WSL QS 1,500-point event. (More about the surf competetions below)
- Playa Venao: Playa Venao is another popular surf spot on the Azuero Peninsula. The beach is known for its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere. Playa Venao hosts a number of surf competitions throughout the year, including the WSL QS 1,000-point event and the WSL QS 1,500-point event.
On the Caribbean coast, Panama is known for its reef breaks and consistent swells. There are other good spots along the Caribbean, but these tend to be difficult to reach. The locations included here are relatively accessible and reliable. Some of the most popular surf spots on the Caribbean coast include:
- Playa Bluff: Playa Bluff is a remote beach on the Caribbean coast of Panama that is known for its powerful reef breaks. The beach is a popular destination for experienced surfers, but it is not recommended for beginners. Playa Bluff hosts a number of surf competitions throughout the year, including the WSL QS 1,000-point event and the WSL QS 1,500-point event.
- Playa Paunch: Playa Paunch is one of the best-known surf spots on Colón Island in the Bocas del Toro archipelago. Set along the island’s eastern coast (reasonably close to Bocas town), Paunch breaks both right and left. It has long waves that are suitable for all levels, including beginners. When the swell is big, the left side has big, powerful barrels.
Surfing in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is another world-renowned surfing destination. The country has a long coastline on the Pacific Ocean that is home to a wide variety of surf spots, from beginner-friendly beach breaks to challenging point breaks.
Some of the most popular surf spots in Costa Rica include:
- Tamarindo: Tamarindo is a popular tourist destination on the Pacific coast that is known for its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere. The town has a number of surf spots, including Playa Tamarindo, which is a beginner-friendly beach break. Tamarindo hosts a number of surf competitions throughout the year, including the WSL QS 1,000-point event and the WSL QS 1,500-point event.
- Jaco: Jaco is another popular tourist destination on the Pacific coast that is known for its consistent waves and vibrant nightlife. The town has a number of surf spots and beaches in a few kilometer radius, including Playa Jaco, which is a popular spot for surfers of all levels. Jaco hosts a number of surf competitions throughout the year, including the WSL QS 1,000-point event and the WSL QS 1,500-point event.
- Playa Hermosa: Playa Hermosa is a popular surf spot on the Pacific coast that is located between Jaco and Hermosa. The beach is known for its consistent waves and challenging point breaks. Playa Hermosa hosts a number of surf competitions throughout the year, including the WSL Challenger Series event.
- Nosara: Nosara is a more remote surf destination on the Pacific coast that is known for its consistent waves and beautiful beaches. The town has a number of surf spots, including Playa Pelada, which is a popular spot for experienced surfers. Nosara hosts a number of surf competitions throughout the year, including the WSL QS 1,000-point event and the WSL QS 1,500-point event.
- Puerto Viejo de Talamanca: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a town on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica that is known for its laid-back atmosphere and diverse range of activities. The town has a number of surf spots in its near radius, including Salsa Brava, which is a powerful reef break that is popular with experienced surfers. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca hosts a number of surf competitions throughout the year, including the WSL QS 1,000-point event and the WSL QS 1,500-point event.
Tips for surfing in Panama and Costa Rica
Here are a few tips for surfing in Panama and Costa Rica:
- Check the surf forecast: It is important to check the surf forecast before heading out to surf, especially if you are not familiar with the area.
- Be aware of the rip currents: Rip currents can be dangerous, so it is important to be aware of them before entering the water.
- Respect the locals: Panama and Costa Rica are both popular tourist destinations, so it is important to respect the locals and their culture.
- Have fun! Surfing is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the beautiful beaches of Panama and Costa Rica.
Additional tips
Here some additional tips related to Surfing in Panama and Costa Rica.
- Book your trip in advance: Panama and Costa Rica are both popular surfing destinations, so it is important to book your trip in advance, especially if you are traveling during the peak season.
- Rent a car: Renting a car is the best way to get around Panama and Costa Rica. This will give you the freedom to explore the different surf spots and other attractions at your own pace, especial when carrying equipment.
- Be prepared for the weather: Panama and Costa Rica have a tropical climate, so it is important to be prepared for hot and humid weather. Be sure to pack light, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases: While English is spoken in Panama and Costa Rica, it is helpful to learn a few basic Spanish phrases. This will help you communicate with the locals and get around more easily.
Surfing competitions
In addition to the surf competitions mentioned above, there are a number of other surfing competitions held in Panama and Costa Rica throughout the year. Some of the most notable competitions include:
- The ISA World Junior Surfing Championship: The ISA World Junior Surfing Championship is one of the most prestigious surfing competitions in the world. It is held every year and features the best junior surfers from around the globe.
- The WSL Challenger Series: The WSL Challenger Series is a qualifying series for the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour. The top surfers on the Challenger Series qualify for the Championship Tour, which is the highest level of professional surfing.
- The Rip Curl GromSearch: The Rip Curl GromSearch is a surfing competition for surfers under the age of 16. It is one of the most popular surfing competitions for young surfers and has helped to launch the careers of many professional surfers.
Conclusion to Surfing in Panama and Costa Rica
Panama and Costa Rica are two of the best surf destinations in the world. No wonder Surfing in Panama and Costa Rica is on the rise as an international activity, with their long coastlines, consistent swells, and diverse range of breaks, they offer something for surfers of all levels. If you are looking for a great place to surf, be sure to consider Costa Rica and Panama and their beaches or for your next vacation.
Other activities in Panama and Costa Rica
In addition to Surfing in Panama and Costa Rica, both countries offer a variety of other activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the most popular activities include:
- Hiking: Panama and Costa Rica are both home to beautiful rainforests and mountains that offer excellent hiking opportunities. Some of the most popular hiking trails in Panama include the Pipeline Trail in Soberanía National Park and the Sendero La Amistad trail in La Amistad International Park. Some of the most popular hiking trails in Costa Rica include the Arenal Volcano Trail and the Manuel Antonio National Park Trail.
- Zip-lining: Zip-lining is a popular activity in both Panama and Costa Rica, with tours available in a variety of locations. Some of the most popular zip-lining tours in Panama include the Canopy Adventure Tour in Boquete and the Panama Canal Zip-Line Tour in Gamboa. Some of the most popular zip-lining tours in Costa Rica include the Monteverde Cloud Forest Zip-Line Tour and the Arenal Volcano Zip-Line Tour.
- Wildlife watching: Panama and Costa Rica are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and macaws. Some of the best places to go wildlife watching in Panama include Soberanía National Park and Coiba National Park. Some of the best places to go wildlife watching in Costa Rica include Manuel Antonio National Park and Corcovado National Park.