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.
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Strike Score Breakdown
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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
- 3.0m
- 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?
Paunch works best on a mid tide, ideally between 0.2m and 2.5m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Paunch?
Offshore wind at Paunch blows from the SW (225°). Anything in the 190° to 260° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Paunch?
Paunch wants NE swell (20° to 80°) between 1.2m and 3.7m, with a period of 14s or more for quality waves.
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?
Fly into BOC, then allow about 15 minutes by road. 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