Surfing in San Carlos, Panama

San Carlos, Panama
Not Rated
Duration

5 day 4 nights

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

10 people

Languages

English, Espanol

San Carlos is renowned for its incredible surfing conditions, offering some of the best wave experiences in Panama. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner, San Carlos has something for everyone. With its consistent waves, warm waters, and beautiful beaches, it’s the perfect destination for a surfing adventure.


Why Surf in San Carlos?

  • Perfect Waves: San Carlos boasts some of the most consistent and thrilling waves in Panama, suitable for surfers of all levels.
  • Warm Climate: Enjoy surfing in warm waters year-round, with temperatures averaging 27°C (80°F).
  • Scenic Beauty: The stunning coastline, lush landscapes, and vibrant local culture make for an unforgettable surfing trip.

Getting There

Arriving in San Carlos is a breeze, with direct flights available to Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport (PTY) from major cities worldwide. Once you land, you’ll be greeted by Michael Chuez, your dedicated host and guide. Michael will personally pick you up from the airport and drive you to your accommodation in San Carlos, ensuring a smooth and comfortable start to your vacation. The scenic drive from Panama City to San Carlos takes about 1.5 hours, offering picturesque views of the countryside and coastline.

Meet the Team

Upon arrival, you will be introduced to our entire team and crew. Our team includes a professional camera crew and drone operators who will film your surfing experience, capturing every moment for lasting memories. We’ll get you settled into your accommodation and provide an overview of what to expect during your stay.


Top Surf Spots in San Carlos

  1. El Palmar Beach: Known for its reliable waves and sandy bottom, El Palmar is perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers.
  2. Punta Barco: Offers powerful and hollow waves, ideal for advanced surfers looking for a challenge.
  3. Playa Teta: A favorite among locals, this spot features consistent waves and a relaxed atmosphere.


Local Surf Shops and Camps

Surf Shops:

  • El Palmar Surf Shop: Located right by El Palmar Beach, this shop offers a wide range of surfboards, gear, and accessories. They also provide board rentals and repairs.
  • San Carlos Surf & Skate: A one-stop-shop for all your surfing needs, including apparel, equipment, and expert advice from seasoned surfers.

Surf Camps:

  • Panama Surf School: Offers lessons for all skill levels, guided surf tours, and surf camps. Their experienced instructors ensure a safe and fun learning experience.
  • San Carlos Surf Camp: A comprehensive camp that includes accommodation, meals, daily surf lessons, and excursions to the best surf spots around San Carlos.


Food and Accommodations

Food:

San Carlos is not just a surfing paradise; it’s also a haven for food lovers. The town boasts a variety of dining options, ranging from local eateries to upscale restaurants.

  • Local Cuisine: Experience the flavors of Panama with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes like ceviche, sancocho, and patacones. El Rincon del Chef is a must-visit for authentic Panamanian food with a modern twist.
  • Beachfront Dining: Enjoy a meal with a view at Cholos Comida Mexicana, where you can savor delicious Mexican dishes while watching the waves. For a more casual setting, El Sitio offers a great selection of international and local dishes right on the beach.
  • Cafes and Snack Bars: Need a quick bite or a refreshing drink? Cafe Amaranto and Sandwichito are perfect spots for coffee, smoothies, and light snacks.

Accommodations:

San Carlos offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

  • Beachfront Hotels: Stay close to the action at Bay View Hotel, which offers comfortable rooms with stunning ocean views and easy access to the best surf spots. Manglar Lodge is another excellent choice, providing cozy rooms, a beautiful garden, and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Vacation Rentals: For a more private and personalized experience, consider renting a beach house or apartment. Casa Swell offers stylish, fully-equipped homes just steps from the beach, perfect for families or groups.
  • Surf Camps: Many surf camps, like Panama Surf School and San Carlos Surf Camp, offer all-inclusive packages that include accommodation, meals, and surf lessons, providing a hassle-free surfing vacation.

Highlights

  • Experience the best waves in Panama at top surf spots like El Palmar Beach, Punta Barco, and Playa Teta.
  • Enjoy personalized surf lessons tailored to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced surfers.
  • Stay in comfortable beachfront accommodations with stunning ocean views.
  • Savor delicious local cuisine, from fresh seafood to traditional Panamanian dishes.
  • Capture unforgettable moments with professional photo and video recordings of your surfing sessions.
  • Explore the scenic beauty of San Carlos, including lush landscapes and vibrant local culture.

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction

Welcome to Panama! As your dedicated surf guide, I, Michael Chuez, am thrilled to welcome you to this beautiful country. Your adventure begins with a warm greeting at Tocumen International Airport in Panama City. I'll be there to personally pick you up and drive you to San Carlos. The journey to our coastal paradise takes about 1.5 hours, offering you a scenic drive through lush countryside and along the stunning coastline. Upon arrival, we'll check you into your beachfront accommodation where you can settle in and meet the rest of our team, including our professional camera crew and drone operators who will be capturing your surfing experience. In the evening, we'll enjoy a welcome dinner at El Rincon del Chef, where you can savor your first taste of authentic Panamanian cuisine.

Morning:

  • 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Arrive at Tocumen International Airport and meet Michael Chuez.
  • 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Scenic drive to San Carlos.

Afternoon:

  • 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Check into your accommodation and meet the team.
  • 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Visit El Palmar Surf Shop to get your gear.
  • 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Settle in and enjoy some leisure time at the beach.

Evening:

  • 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Welcome dinner at El Rincon del Chef.

Day 2: Surfing at El Palmar Beach

Let’s hit the waves! After a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, we'll head to El Palmar Beach, one of San Carlos’ most famous surf spots. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, El Palmar offers consistent waves perfect for everyone. I'll guide you through a comprehensive surf lesson, focusing on the basics and safety techniques for the beginners while providing advanced tips for the more experienced surfers. We'll take a break for lunch at a local cafe, giving you a taste of the vibrant local flavors. In the afternoon, you'll get more time in the water to practice your skills with my guidance and support. The entire day will be documented by our camera crew, ensuring your memories are captured perfectly. We’ll wrap up the day with dinner at Cholos Comida Mexicana, a local favorite known for its delicious food and relaxed vibe.

Morning:

  • 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Breakfast at your accommodation.
  • 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Surfing lesson at El Palmar Beach, focusing on the basics and safety.

Afternoon:

  • 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch at a local cafe.
  • 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Practice your skills on the waves, with guidance from your instructor and capture your experience on camera.

Evening:

  • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Dinner at Cholos Comida Mexicana.

Day 3: Advanced Surfing at Punta Barco

Time to challenge yourself! Today, we venture to Punta Barco, renowned for its powerful and hollow waves, making it an ideal spot for advanced surfers. After breakfast, we’ll head out early to make the most of the morning surf conditions. I’ll be right there with you, offering tips and encouragement as you tackle these more challenging waves. Our camera crew will capture every thrilling moment, so you can relive the excitement. After a morning of intense surfing, we’ll enjoy a relaxing picnic on the beach. The afternoon will give you another chance to ride the waves and hone your skills. To unwind, we’ll have a sunset yoga session on the beach, perfect for stretching out those surf muscles and finding some peace after an exhilarating day. Dinner will be at a local restaurant, where we can share stories and laughs about the day’s adventures.

Morning:

  • 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Breakfast at your accommodation.
  • 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Head to Punta Barco for a more challenging surfing session.

Afternoon:

  • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Picnic on the beach.
  • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Continue surfing in the afternoon.

Evening:

  • 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Sunset yoga session to unwind after a day of surfing.
  • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 4: Surfing and Exploration at Playa Teta

Explore and surf like a local! Today, we head to Playa Teta, a favorite among local surfers for its consistent and fun waves. After our morning meal, we’ll make our way to this fantastic spot where you’ll get to experience surfing from a local’s perspective. I’ll be by your side, ensuring you make the most of the waves and continue to improve your technique. Once we’ve had our fill of the surf, we’ll take a break for lunch at a charming beachside cafe. The afternoon is dedicated to exploration – we’ll visit local markets, meet some of the friendly locals, and immerse ourselves in the rich cultural tapestry of San Carlos. In the evening, we’ll celebrate our surfing achievements with a beach bonfire and barbecue, sharing good food, music, and great company under the stars.

Morning:

  • 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Breakfast at your accommodation.
  • 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Surf at Playa Teta, experiencing the local favorite spot.

Afternoon:

  • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch at a beachside cafe.
  • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Explore the surrounding area, including local markets and cultural sites.

Evening:

  • 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Beach bonfire and barbecue to celebrate your surfing achievements.

Day 5: Departure

Farewell for now, but not goodbye! Our final day together starts with a last surfing session at your favorite spot. This is your chance to apply everything you’ve learned and enjoy one more ride on the waves of San Carlos. After breakfast, we’ll pack up and check out of your accommodation. The scenic drive back to Panama City provides a perfect opportunity to reflect on the incredible experiences and memories we’ve created together. I’ll ensure you reach Tocumen International Airport with plenty of time for your departure. Saying goodbye is always bittersweet, but I hope you leave with a heart full of wonderful memories and a newfound love for surfing. Until next time, may the waves always be in your favor!

Morning:

  • 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Breakfast at your accommodation.
  • 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Final surf session at your favorite spot.

Afternoon:

  • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Pack up and check out of your accommodation.
  • 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM: Drive back to Panama City.

Evening:

  • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Depart from Tocumen International Airport with unforgettable memories and new surfing skills.

 

  • Private Transport
  • Bilingual Guide
  • Lunch Meals
  • Surf Board
  • Rash Guard
  • Board Leash
  • Camera Crew
  • Insurance
  • Drinks
  • Dinner Meals

Multi day

English
Espanol

Tour's Location

San Carlos, Panama

What is included in the Surfing Tour package?

Our Surfing Tour package includes airport pickup and drop-off, accommodation, daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner, surf lessons with experienced instructors, guided tours to the top surf spots, professional photo and video recording of your surfing sessions, and access to all necessary surfing equipment.

Do I need prior surfing experience to join the tour?

No prior surfing experience is necessary to join the tour. Our instructors cater to all skill levels, from complete beginners to advanced surfers. We provide personalized lessons tailored to your experience and skill level to ensure a safe and enjoyable surfing experience.

What should I bring with me for the surfing tour?

We recommend bringing swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and any personal items you might need. While we provide all the necessary surfing equipment, you may bring your own if you prefer. Don't forget to bring a sense of adventure and readiness to have fun!

How do I get from Panama City to San Carlos?

Once you arrive at Tocumen International Airport in Panama City, you will be greeted by Michael Chuez, your host and guide. Michael will personally pick you up and drive you to your accommodation in San Carlos. The scenic drive takes approximately 1.5 hours, and you'll enjoy picturesque views along the way.

Can non-surfers join the tour?

Absolutely! Non-surfers are welcome to join the tour and enjoy the beautiful beaches, local culture, and various activities San Carlos has to offer. There are plenty of opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and enjoying the local cuisine, making it a perfect destination for everyone.

from $999.00

Owner

Michael White Chuez

Member Since 2024

Information Contact

Email

mike@vacation-panama.com

Website

vacation-panama.com

Phone

(800) 555-5555

Fax

(800) 555-5555

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