Classic surfing involves rowing a wave, getting up and performing a series of turns, maneuvers and tricks, thanks to the push of the wave itself. It is a constantly evolving sport that is growing in popularity.
The best destinations to visit if you want to surf are:
Santa Catalina: This beach in Santiago de Veraguas has some of the longest waves in Central America, which can reach up to 15 feet in height. This beach is known for its waves with incredible tubes, rocky bottom and warm water temperature all year round. This beach is also ideal for people who want to learn to surf.
Morrillo: Also located in the province of Veraguas, it is 4 hours from Panama City by car. Several times it has been the scene of national and international surfing competitions, such as the National Surf Circuit.
Playa Venao: One of the most famous surfing destinations in Panama, this beach has a hot temperature from April to November, but during the period from January to December you can find cold currents. Here you can find many hotels and restaurants. This beach is located on the Azuero peninsula and is known to be the location of most of the international competitions that have taken place in Panama.
Cambutal: Located in the Azuero peninsula, from Playa Venao, it would take about an hour to get to Cambutal. This beach is very interesting because it has the most consistent waves in the Panamanian Pacific and can reach up to 20 feet in height. It is also surrounded by beautiful vegetation.
Chame Banks: One of the most convenient locations as it is only 1 hour from Panama City, located in the Punta Chame area. On this beach, waves can reach up to 8 feet. If you decide to visit this place, I recommend that you bring an umbrella because it is a beach with few trees and therefore few shaded places.
Long Island: Located on the Atlantic side, just 3 hours from the city. To get to this beach you need to take a boat from La Guaria. Long Island is characterized by its clear waters and 8-foot waves on a coral reef.
Bluff: If you want to travel a little further, Bluff Beach is ideal for bodyboarding, located in Bocas del Toro, it has one of the most beautiful landscapes.
Carenero: Also located in Bocas del Toro, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Its waves can reach up to 10 feet and it has a coral reef.
Morro Negrito: Located on a virgin island in the province of Chiriquí, this is one of the places where you can enjoy incredible waves.
El Palmar: Just an hour from the city, in San Carlos is El Palmar beach, it is one of the most frequented beaches by surfers and the ideal place to start the sport.