Bocas Del Toro
Surf and Weather Guide
Monthly Report
January
January starts the year off as the all-around best month to visit Bocas Del Toro. The surf is consistent and BIG, the weather is mostly dry and sunny, and the island’s nightlife is in full swing from the start of the busy season right before Christmas. Outer island trips are more limited due to the heavier surf this time of year.
February
February’s forecast is similar to January. There’s still consistent surf with sunny days. This month is still in the high season of tourism with slightly less people than January. February also marks the start of a month-long festival celebrated in most Latin American countries called Carnival. This festival brings music and vibrant nightlife to the island and surrounding areas of Panama. Wherever you find yourself traveling in Panama, this month you will find a plethora of colorful parties and festivities from Panamanians and tourists alike.
March
This month can still produce good surf but is not as consistent. The weather conditions are dry and sunny. Snorkeling and outer island adventuring can be wonderful with the calmer seas. March is an all-around great time to visit Bocas.
April
This is more or less the beginning of the “wet” season for the Archipelago. The waves are smaller and the ocean sits flat for more boating excursions, however with incoming rains brings scattered days for snorkeling and beach going. April is also the start of the low season for tourism in Bocas.
May
This marks the “season of the sloth”. Not for any extra sloth cameos or viewing, only because this marks the true low and slow season for Bocas del Toro. Many places are empty, and beaches can be enjoyed without a single foot print. Many places choose to close during this time of year for their own little vacations. This month tends to be on the wetter side but can also see a lot of beautiful sunny days too!
June
This month sees a slight increase in surf swell with a mix of rain and sun. Outer island and diving adventures are still good but with incoming swell activity it can take more planning for those farther to reach destinations.
July
July marks the second surf season for Bocas del Toro. Waves this time of year still have the same energy as January with half the crowd in the lineup. Expect to get wet as this also marks peak rainy season however most rain falls at night into early morning.
August
The month of August brings a mixed bag of sun and surf. Still a little bump in the water to get your fix but enough sun to keep the lady happy lounging on the hot sand. Outer island adventures are perfect this time of year.
September
What a wonderful month to visit Bocas. The sun is out, the water is calm and flat, and everyone else is back to school. This is known as the best month for diving in Bocas.
October
Same as September, this month brings sun and that empty beach Caribbean vibe so desperately sought after. The water clarity is at its best and all boating activities are in full swing.
November
November starts to see a shift into the surf season bringing more rain and wind on average. This month is still out of the main tourist season but can produce decent waves. Outer island excursions are still available but windy days from incoming weather patterns can make these days more hit or miss.
December
December hits peak high season through the holidays. Low pressure systems in the Caribbean start to pick up bringing big and heavy swells to Bocas del Toros surf spots. The town is vibrant with energy and most places are at full capacity. There is plenty of surf to go around and the nightlife is in epic form.