Intermediate Surf Spots in Panama
5 surf breaks we map are rated for intermediate surfers in Panama: El Estero Beach, La Punta, Punta Brava, La Punta and Playa Cambutal.
Last updated · Counted from the surf breaks we map — each break's own season, level and wave type
- Beach breaks
- 2
- Reef breaks
- 2
- Point breaks
- 1
The intermediate breaks
Best months are filled in where the break states a season. Open a break for its map, photos and the property nearest the lineup.
- El Estero Beach
- Wave
- Beach Break · Lefts & rights
- Level
- Beginner – Intermediate (Advanced on larger swells)
- Season
- March – October
- Tide
- Mid to High
- Watch out
- Considerations: Strong currents and rips on larger swells; shifting sandbars and river-mouth conditions can affect wave quality.
- La Punta
Santa Catalina
- Wave
- Point · Right
- Level
- Intermediate
- Season
- All Year Round
- Tide
- Best on a mid to high tide.
- Punta Brava
- Wave
- Reef / Rocky Point · Left & Right
- Level
- Intermediate
- Season
- April–October
- Tide
- Low to Mid
- La Punta
Santa Catalina
- Wave
- Reef break · Right-hand
- Level
- Intermediate
- Season
- March to October (south swells)
- Tide
- Best on a mid-to-high tide
- Watch out
- Breaks over shallow coral or rock reef — booties are recommended and mind the take-off zone.
- Playa Cambutal
- Wave
- Beach break · A-frame peaks (lefts and rights)
- Level
- Intermediate
- Season
- March to October (south swells)
- Tide
- All tides; sandbar-dependent
- Watch out
- Rip currents form between the sandbars, so check before paddling out. It is remote, with basic medical care nearby.
Other levels in Panama
Frequently asked questions
Where can intermediate surfers surf in Panama?
5 surf breaks we map are rated for intermediate surfers in Panama: El Estero Beach, La Punta, Punta Brava, La Punta and Playa Cambutal.
When is the best time for intermediate surfers to surf Panama?
The intermediate-rated breaks we map in Panama are mostly at their best in April to October.
What kind of waves are the intermediate surf spots in Panama?
Of the 5 intermediate breaks we map in Panama, 2 are beach breaks, 2 are reef breaks and 1 is a point break.