Isla Grande
Isla Grande is Panama's Caribbean secret—a reef break on the country's north coast that needs north swells to activate but rewards the right conditions with crystal-clear water and quality left-handers over shallow reef. Most visitors know this island as a weekend escape from Panama City for snorkeling and beaches, but a small community of surfers monitors winter swells from the North Atlantic. The boat ride from historic Portobelo adds adventure, while the island's laid-back atmosphere provides the perfect counterpoint to the Pacific coast's more consistent surf scene.
Isla Grande surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNE (20°)
- Direction range
- 350° - 60°
- Size range
- 1m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.7m - 2.1m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (180°)
- Offshore range
- 140° - 220°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.2m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Boat from Portobelo. Weekend getaway from Panama City.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Isla Grande?
The Isla Grande profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.2m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Isla Grande?
The Isla Grande profile uses wind from S (180°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 140° to 220°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Isla Grande?
The Isla Grande scoring profile favors swell from NNE (350° to 60°), a swell-height range of 1m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 12s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Isla Grande?
The main season at Isla Grande is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Jun, Jul. Caribbean swell season. N-NE swells.
How do I get to Isla Grande?
The spot profile lists PTY as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 120 minutes. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $30 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Boat from Portobelo. Weekend getaway from Panama City.
What kind of wave is Isla Grande?
Isla Grande is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Jun, Jul
Caribbean swell season. N-NE swells.