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Stay right on the sands of Playa Venao at Selina: surf lessons, yoga sessions, coworking & laid-back beach vibes. Discover Panama’s ultimate beachfront escape.
Los Santos, Panama, is a surfer's paradise, boasting the world-renowned Playa Venao. With consistent waves, a sand bottom, and a vibrant surf scene, it's the perfect spot for everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. Get ready to ride some of the bes
The Surf Scene in Los Santos
Los Santos, and specifically the iconic Playa Venao, is the buzzing heart of Panama's surf scene. This crescent-shaped bay is more than just a pretty beach; it's a magnet for surfers from all corners of the globe. The vibe here is laid-back and friendly, with a mix of locals, expats, and travelers sharing the waves. You'll find everything from rustic surf shacks to chic beachfront hotels, all centered around the shared love for surfing. Whether you're looking to party after a long day in the water or just relax with a cold beer and watch the sunset, Los Santos has you covered.
The Waves
Playa Venao is the main event, offering a super consistent beach break that works for all levels. The beauty of Venao is its sand bottom, which makes it a forgiving playground for those just starting out. The main peak, just west of the center of the bay, offers a long, peeling left that's perfect for intermediates to practice their turns. When a big swell rolls in, the outer edges of the bay come alive with more powerful and hollow waves, offering a challenge for more experienced surfers. For those looking to explore, nearby spots like Playa Guanico offer a bit more size, while the right-hand point break at Playa Cambutal is worth the drive for its hollow sections.
Best Time to Go
You can score waves in Los Santos year-round, but the prime season is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During these months, you can expect consistent southwest swells and clean, well-groomed waves. The wet season, from May to November, can also be good, with larger swells, but you'll have to contend with more frequent rain.
What Level is the Surfing?
Los Santos is a fantastic destination for surfers of all abilities. The main break at Playa Venao is a dream for beginners and intermediates, with its sandy bottom and manageable waves. There are plenty of surf schools and camps that can get you up and riding in no time. For the more advanced surfers, the bigger swells and the point breaks in the region offer plenty of opportunities to get barreled and push your limits.
Why Los Santos?
What makes Los Santos so special is its unique combination of world-class waves, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. It's a place where you can surf all day, then spend your evenings enjoying fresh seafood, listening to live music, and meeting fellow travelers. The consistency of the waves, the variety of breaks, and the welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for any surfer.
The prime surfing season on the Pacific coast of Panama, where Los Santos is located, runs from April to October. During these months, consistent south swells from the southern hemisphere generate the most reliable and largest waves. While surfing is possible year-round, this period offers the best conditions for all skill levels, with consistent swells and favorable offshore winds in the mornings.
Los Santos caters to all skill levels. Beginners will find friendly, rolling waves at protected beach breaks like Playa Venao. Intermediate surfers can enjoy a variety of beach and point breaks, while advanced surfers can find challenging reef breaks and powerful point breaks, especially around Cambutal and the outer points of the Azuero Peninsula. Many local surf schools and camps offer lessons for beginners. You can find more information on our Panama surf camps page.
Yes, the water in Los Santos is warm and tropical year-round. Water temperatures typically range from 26-29°C (79-84°F), so you can comfortably surf in boardshorts or a bikini. A wetsuit is not necessary, but a rash guard is highly recommended for sun protection.
Besides your surfboard, be sure to pack plenty of high-SPF, waterproof sunscreen, as the equatorial sun is very strong. A rash guard or surf shirt is essential for sun protection during long sessions. Other must-haves include insect repellent, a good hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. While most established surf towns have basic amenities, it's a good idea to bring any specific medications or personal items you might need.
The province of Los Santos is considered the cultural heartland of Panama, known for its vibrant folklore, music, and festivals. The town of Las Tablas is famous for having one of the best Carnival celebrations in the country. You'll find a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and a strong connection to traditional Panamanian life. Don't miss the chance to try some of the local cuisine, which features fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Los Santos offers a range of options for different budgets. It is generally more affordable than more developed surf destinations like Costa Rica. You can find everything from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to more luxurious boutique hotels and surf resorts. Local food is delicious and inexpensive. For more details on accommodation, check out our Playa Venao surf camps page.
Surfing in Los Santos is generally very safe. The main hazards are natural, such as rocks or stingrays, so it's always a good idea to shuffle your feet when walking in the water. As with any travel destination, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions with your belongings. When in doubt, ask local surfers or your surf camp about the conditions and any potential hazards at a particular spot.
Absolutely! Los Santos is a region of great natural beauty. You can go hiking in the Cerro Hoya National Park, go whale watching (from July to October), or take a boat trip to Isla Iguana, a wildlife refuge with white-sand beaches and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling. The charming colonial town of Pedasí is also a great place to explore, with its colorful architecture and lively town square.
Los Santos has several well-known surf regions. The most famous is Playa Venao, a consistent beach break that's great for all levels. Cambutal offers a variety of waves, from beach breaks to powerful reef and point breaks for more experienced surfers. The area around Pedasí also has a number of less-crowded spots to explore. Each area has its own unique character and variety of waves.
