Surf in the Riviera Pacifica

Surfing in the Riviera Pacifica is an experience you won't want to miss. Imagine jumping from beach to beach, dominating the waves that await you between Punta Chame and Farallon, just a few kilometers away from vibrant Panama City.

With over 15 surf spots to choose from, this region is an aquatic paradise for surfers of all levels and tastes. From beaches with soft sandy bottoms to places with challenging rock bottoms, and waves crashing left and right, there are exciting options for every adventurer.

When to surf

Come and see the waves of Panamá at any time of year. One of the great advantages of touring the Riviera Pacifica is that it has ideal conditions for surfing all year round. Both in the dry season, from December to March, and in the rainy season, the rest of the year, you'll find waves to enjoy.

Surf lesson at El Palmar, San Carlos, Panamá Oeste Province, Panamá

Keep in mind that each season affects our tides and wave behavior differently, so plan your trip well so that you find the sea as you like it. Although July and August is a good time to enjoy fairly pleasant waves, the best swell will be found between April and June, when the southwest winds create constant and very good waves.

From mid-November to April there are fewer waves, so you can enjoy the summer on a beautiful day at the beach, a day of fishing or hiking on one of the trails on the mountainous sides of the Pacific.

Finally, in February and April the wind is our friend again, and the morning hours become the perfect time to do a good round of surfing.

Surf teacher with a student in a paddle practicing equilibrium

What to do in Riviera Pacífica?

Ride the big tubular waves of Chame, surf in front of a river mouth at Playa Malibu, and enjoy the swell at Stanely.

Visit Playa Serena, known as the surfing paradise, head to Rocky Point and then go to Playa Teta, another great destination famous for its three points with incredible waves. Challenge yourself with the speed of Jeffreys’ waves, enjoy the waves at The Wedge and Hawaisito, and discover the high-tide waves.

Go to Costa Esmeralda so the fun never stops. Continue with the tubular waves of El Palmar. Don’t miss Punta Raton, and at Rio Mar and Corona, watch the waves break near the river mouths and enjoy the mix of fresh and salt water.

In most beaches, or very close to them, you'll have schools, board rentals, hotels dedicated to surfing and yoga, and much more.

A pair of buddies take a leisurely walk by the shore of the beach.

Getting there

From Panama City, Panamá, take the Pan-American Highway. You can do it by driving or taking a bus at the Albrook Grand Transport Terminal.

In about an hour and a half you'll start seeing detour signs to the beaches. Keep in mind that buses will drop you off on the Pan-American Highway and each beach is at a different distance from this point. Find out where on the road you should get off to find a taxi to take you to the beach.

Group of surfers walking on the shore of San Carlos

Welcome to Riviera Pacifica, where the adventure never ends, and excitement is around every corner! If you're a fan of beachside activities, this is your ideal destination. Enjoy the waves at Chame, El Palmar, Playa Malibu, and Playa Teta, top beaches for surfing.