Panama stand up paddle boarding has become a very popular sport since the county has 1,550 miles of coastline and nearly 500 rivers, so as you might imagine there are many Stand Up Paddle boarding (SUP) spots in Panama.
Climate in Panama is quite stable with temperatures that range from 24 °C (75.2 °F) to 32 °C (89.6 °F) in most of the country. Unlike other destinations, there are no extreme hot temperatures, which allows you to spend time outside without being uncomfortable. Summer, from December through April, brings a cool breeze making it even more enjoyable. Panama SUP can be done year round, but some are better during the summer or winter.
One of the advantages of Panama besides the many beaches, rivers and lakes, is the easy access from one ecosystem to the other. Rise up early to enjoy the Caribbean coast and just a few hours later you can be paddling through the Pacific, choose to enjoy a calmed ride or go for more adrenaline and do some SUP surf too!
Here is a list of our top recommendations for Best SUP Stand Up Paddle Board Locations in Panama
Panama City
Peñon de San José
Departing from La Playita de Amador heading south east, paddling a total of 3.42 miles through the Amador Causeway towards the Peñon de San José and back to Amador, you wouldn’t want to miss out on this 2 hour journey that offers you the opportunity of admiring the Panama City skyline from a different, breathtaking perspective with the possibility of encountering sea turtles, dolphins and tropical fishes.
Guided tour by certified PaddleFit and ISA – International Surfing Association instructor, includes: Board Rental, Paddle, Leash and PFD as well as water and snacks.
Stand Up Panama offers experience however requires the expertise of intermediate/advance paddlers.
Caribbean Stand-up Paddleboarding
Departing from beautiful Portobelo in the Colon province and paddling through clear waters in the Atlantic Ocean of Panama towards Playa Huerta where you will be able to see coral reefs and marine life.
This is a full day tour as Colon is located 45 minutes from Panama City and there is an extra 45minute ride to arrive to Portobelo. Enjoy La Torre Restaurant’s Afro-Caribbean gastronomic experience to wrap up this amazing experience.
Guided tour by certified PaddleFit and ISA – International Surfing Association instructor, includes: Board Rental, Paddle, Leash and PFD as well as water, snacks, escort boat and transportation.
This experience will require the expertise of intermediate/advance paddlers.
Lake Alajuela
Experience the waters of the artificial lake Alajuela which serves as a reservoir for the Panama Canal. Bounded by the Madden Dam, there are 9 rivers that flow into this lake and contribute a 45% percent of the total water for the canal.
Paddle through the waters that feed one of the wonders of the modern world and spot native animals while being surrounded by the tropical rainforest.
Departure from Stand Up Panama offices in Amador towards Chilibre, 45min drive.
5 hour tour, guided by certified PaddleFit and ISA – International Surfing Association instructor. Includes: Board Rental, Paddle, Leash and PFD as well as beverages, escort boat and transportation.
This experience will require the expertise of intermediate/advance paddlers.
Gulf of Chiriqui stand-up paddleboarding
Many hotels or beach areas now offer SUP rentals. Selva Terra Island Resort, located in Isla Boca Brava has SUP boards available for guests at no extra cost. The area around the sandy beach is perfect for a calm paddle or even some SUP yoga. For more excitement, cross over the other side of the peninsula where you can do some SUP surf. You can also enjoy paddling through the mangroves or take a guided Island tour.
This experience is available for beginners, intermediates/advance paddlers.
