Surf Spots

Bocas del Toro’s surf season starts late November and begins to fall off in February, with a mini season during July and August.

When the swells arrive, Bocas has some of the best waves and variety of breaks in the Caribbean. The sub-sea topography of the archipelago is extreme, with depths of several thousand feet just a few miles offshore, and fast, hollow waves. There are good swells creating long rides of up to 200 meters, while the most extreme breaks can reach heights of over six meters.

There are also inside reefs and shoals that catch swells wrapping around the side of the islands, creating smaller waves and less current -- perfect for the beginner and still a fun ride for experienced riders.

Text by Tranquilo Bay
Playa Larga

Playa Larga

A three-and-a-half-mile long stretch of Isla Bastimentos where you can surf the beaches and reefs of Bastimentos National Marine Park.

Location: Isla Bastimentos
Cocos

Cocos

An exciting ride for all skill levels.

Location: Isla Bastimentos
Wizard Beach

First Beach/ Wizard Beach

This spot is well suited for intermediate to advanced surfers depending on swell size and conditions. 

Location: Isla Bastimentos
Silver Back

Silver Back

If Columbus caught this wave firing when he reached this archipelago 500 years ago, it might explain why he named Bocas “Mouths of the Bull”.

Location: Isla Bastimentos
Carenero

Carenero

This is the closest wave to the town of Bocas and can get crowded, but on a good day with all peaks firing, it can hold a lot of surfers.

Location: Isla Carenero
Black Rock

Black Rock

This is a fun right that breaks over mostly sand bottom.

Location: Isla Carenero
Paunch

Paunch

Paunch’s unparalleled waves make it a must for surfers.

Location: Isla Colón
Outer Dumps

Outer Dumps

This super powerful left is a fast, hollow wave breaking over critical reef bottom.

Location: Isla Colón
Inner dumps

Inner Dumps

A solid peaky left with excellent tubes rides on good swells.

Location: Isla Colón
Playa Bluff

Bluff Beach

Don’t forget an extra board... this place likes to eat them. 

Location: Bluff Beach
Learning to surf

Punta Valiente

There is not one named wave on this stretch of coastline for over 100 miles... be the one to find the next great ride in Bocas del Toro!

Location: Mainland Bocas

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