Bocas del Toro Surfing Guide: Surf Spots, Seasons, Experiences and Lessons

One of the top reasons travelers visit Bocas del Toro? Beyond the beautiful beaches and remote locale, so many travelers make their way to Bocas del Toro for surfing. 

There’s no need to be a pro, though, to enjoy catching a gnarly wave here. There are surf spots for every skill level, and ample surfing experience and lesson providers who can help you (safely!) try surfing for the very first time. 

Here's a quick overview of everything you need to know about surfing in Bocas del Toro. 

Best Seasons to Surf in Bocas del Toro 

Just as is the case in many renowned surfing destinations, there are better times for surfing in Bocas del Toro than others. Typically, you can find the best surfing conditions and tropical weather either in the winter months or in the dead of summer: so December to early spring, or April, and then again in late June to early August. 

The worst time for surfing in Bocas del Toro is undoubtedly in the fall, when swells are less likely and the water can remain pretty flat (at least by surfer standards). While this does make room for other activities — like diving, when the calm waters make for higher visibility — if it’s surfing you want to experience, specifically, visit in the winter or mid-summer.

Best Surf Spots in Bocas del Toro 

So, once you’re here during those best times of year for surfing in Bocas del Toro, where do you go for the best surfing experiences? If you don’t necessarily feel you need a lesson or don’t want a guided experience, grab your board and head out to one of these top surf spots off the shores of Panama:  

• Bluff Beach

Bluff Beach, near Bocas Town, is a large, expansive beach that’s not overly crowded with surfers, despite its reputation as a surfing hotspot. Do note, though, that this surfing spot isn’t beginner friendly. The strong waves make this beach suitable only for the experienced surfers.

• Wizard Beach

A little remote, but safer for beginners, Wizard Beach is an easy favorite for surfing. Located on Isla Bastimentos, in this spot, you can pretty much always reliably catch a wave.

• Paunch Reef

On Isla Colon, Paunch Reef provides a range of amenities, such as nearby restaurants, bars and even companies offering surfing instruction and similar services. Depending on conditions, the waves might be more suited to different skill levels on different days, but, in general, this is a good spot for most surfers. 

How to Book Surfing Lessons and Experiences in Bocas del Toro  

Let’s say you’re not ready to head out on your own just yet, though. If you’d like the expertise of a surfing instructor or guide, Casa Botanica can help. 

Our guests enjoy access to a range of surf experiences provided by our partners. A beginner surfing class might include a brief tutorial, warmup, beach-set class and then an in-the-water class with two instructors, for an all-day crash course. Some surfing experiences, meanwhile, can be expanded to include other amenities, such as breakfast, or a photographer to accompany you on your surfing excursion, to take some truly one-of-a-kind vacation pics. 

Ready to Hit the Water? 

When you stay at Casa Botanica Bocas del Toro, your adventures merely start with your surfing excursion, whether guided or solo. There’s so much more in our little corner of Panama to love and enjoy, from diving to cultural explorations, wildlife watching to agritourism — and, after you’ve experienced it all, you’ll want to come back to a relaxing, tranquil space where you can kick back, recoup and get ready for another day of fun. That space is Casa Botanica.

Learn more about your Casa Botanica stay and begin your trip planning now.