Paunch
Paunch is the wave that put Bocas del Toro on the surfing map. This versatile reef break offers something for everyone—hollow barrel sections for the chargers, long open walls for the cruisers. The wave breaks both ways with multiple takeoff zones, making it work through most tides and swell angles. A true Caribbean gem.
Paunch surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NE (45°)
- Direction range
- 20° - 80°
- Size range
- 1.2m - 3.7m
- Ideal size
- 2.3m - 3.1m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- SW (225°)
- Offshore range
- 190° - 260°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.2m - 2.5m
Water temp
28°C
Wetsuit
Boardshorts / Rashguard
Difficulty
6/10
Crowd level
4/10
Access: Bocas del Toro. Near Bluff Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Paunch?
The Paunch profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.2m and 2.5m 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 Paunch?
The Paunch profile uses wind from SW (225°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 190° to 260°. 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 Paunch?
The Paunch scoring profile favors swell from NE (20° to 80°), a swell-height range of 1.2m to 3.7m, and a reference period of 14s. 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 Paunch?
The main season at Paunch is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Sep, Oct. Winter swells. Complete package wave.
How do I get to Paunch?
The spot profile lists BOC as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 15 minutes. Bocas del Toro. Near Bluff Beach.
What kind of wave is Paunch?
Paunch is a reef break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 6/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Sep, Oct
Winter swells. Complete package wave.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Dumpees
🫧 Bocas' sucky tubes • Bodysurfer origins • Technical barrels
Tiger Tails
🐯 Bocas reef alternative • Near Paunch • Mellow vibe
Bluff Beach
💥 Caribbean Supertubos • Heavy shorebreak • Bocas barrel factory
Carnero Point
🚤 Bocas' reliable right • Island point break • Boat access perfection
Silverbacks
🦍 Caribbean power right • Shark territory • Bocas' best when on
Wizard Beach
🧙 Bocas beach magic • Fun for all levels • Boat access paradise
Plan a trip around Paunch
Compare this break with other destinations in these surf guides.