Playa Guanico Surf Guide – Your Quick Travel Escape to Panama’s Wild Pacific

Margaux
Jun 5, 2025
3 min read

Looking for a surf destination in Central America that’s still quiet, soulful, and off-the-beaten-path? Playa Guanico is the spot. Nestled on Panama’s Azuero Peninsula, this hidden gem offers consistent surf, peaceful nature, and one of the most authentic local experiences you’ll find anywhere in the country. Whether you're chasing waves, seeking stillness, or both—this Playa Guanico surf guide will help you plan the perfect trip.

girl surfing wave - surf Panama - playa guanico la chantin

🌴 Where is Playa Guanico?

Playa Guanico is located in the Los Santos province of southern Panama, on the Pacific coast. It's about 6.5 to 7 hours by car from Panama City, far removed from the crowds of places like Santa Catalina or Bocas del Toro.

Despite its remoteness, the journey is worth it—and easier than you think. The road is fully paved, and you don’t need a 4x4 to reach Guanico itself.

Tip: If you plan to explore further—like the point breaks of Cambutal or waterfalls in Torio—a 4x4 is recommended for those backroads.

🌊 Why Visit Playa Guanico?

Uncrowded surf with both beach and reef breaks
A peaceful, slow-paced community with authentic Panamanian culture
Stunning nature: jungle hills, sunsets, wildlife
Perfect base for exploring the Azuero Peninsula
Family-friendly, budget-friendly, and full of soul

✈️ How to Get to Playa Guanico?

Option 1: Drive from Panama City

6.5–7 hours total
Take the Pan-American Highway west to Divisa, then toward Tonosí via Chitré or Las Tablas
From Tonosí, continue 30 minutes south on a smooth paved road

Option 2: Fly to Chitré + Drive

Take a domestic flight (Air Panama) from Albrook Airport to Chitré
Rent a car and drive 2.5–3 hours to Playa Guanico

Option 3: Bus from Panama City (Budget-Friendly)

Take a bus from Albrook Bus Terminal to Las Tablas (4–5 hours, ~$9.70)
From Las Tablas:
- Catch the only daily direct bus to Guanico around 12:15 PM ($5), or
- Take a bus to Tonosí ($3), then a local taxi to Guanico ($15), or
- Hire a private taxi from Las Tablas to Guanico (~$50–$80 depending on the driver)

Important: Fill up your gas tank and withdraw cash in Tonosí. There are no gas stations or ATMs in Guanico.

🚗 Getting Around Locally*

To Cambutal: 25–30 minutes (paved road but unpaved way to the pointbreaks)
To Playa Venao: ~1 hr 15 min, paved road

⛺️ Where to Stay: La Chantin ?

Stay just minutes from the surf at La Chantin, a creative, eco-glamping space surrounded by palms, flowers, and the peaceful rhythm of rural life.

Tipis and private cabin options
Shared kitchen, hammocks, and fire pit
Surfskate ramp & local experience offerings
Family-owned, rooted in community
Ideal for solo travelers, couples, and mindful adventurers

Book now →

🌞 Best Time to Visit Playa Guanico

Dry Season (Dec–Apr)

Sunny skies and gentle swell
Great for beginners and longboarders
Easier travel and golden sunsets

Green Season (May–Nov)

Lush scenery and consistent surf
Best for intermediate surfers
Whale watching (Jul–Oct) & turtle nesting (Aug–Nov) nearby

Surf conditions in Playa Guanico are reliable year-round.

women on horse at la chantin in playa guanico - horseback riding Panama

🏄🏼‍♂️ Top Things to Do in Playa Guanico & Region

1. Surf Playa Guanico & Nearby Breaks 🏄‍♀️

Beach and reef break with both lefts and rights
Day trips to Cambutal, Playa Venao, Bucaro for more variety

2. Horseback Riding 🐴

Ride along beaches and through the hills—local guides available

3. Visit Waterfalls 🏞️

Nearby hikes in Cambutal and Tonosi offer hidden cascades

4. Whale Watching & Turtle Nesting 🐳 🐢

Whale season: July to October
Sea turtles: August to November (guided visits recommended)

5. Disconnect & Recharge 📵

No crowds, no rush. Just hammocks, waves, and starlit skies.

🧳 What to Pack ?

Lightweight clothes + swimwear
Surf gear or rent locally
Insect repellent + reef-safe sunscreen
Hiking shoes
Refillable water bottle
Books or journal—you’ll have time to enjoy them
Snacks or basics for your stay