Silverbacks
Silverbacks is Bocas del Toro's heavy-hitting secret - a powerful right-hand reef break that comes alive when NE Caribbean swells push into Panama's island archipelago. Named for the gorilla-like power of its waves (and the bull sharks that occasionally patrol its waters), this is not a spot for the faint-hearted. When winter storms send energy through the Caribbean, Silverbacks transforms into a serious wave, demanding respect and rewarding commitment with thick, grinding barrels. The boat ride out adds to the adventure, passing through Bocas' reggae-tinged island paradise before arriving at something altogether more primal.
Silverbacks 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
- 1m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.9m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 1.03×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
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
Bottom
Reef
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
2/10
Access: Boat from Bocas Town.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Silverbacks?
The Silverbacks 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 Silverbacks?
The Silverbacks 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 Silverbacks?
The Silverbacks scoring profile favors swell from NE (20° to 80°), a swell-height range of 1m to 3m, 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 Silverbacks?
The main season at Silverbacks is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Jun, Jul. November-March Caribbean swells. June-July can work.
How do I get to Silverbacks?
The spot profile lists BOC as a nearby airport. A boat transfer is also required. The profile estimates $50 USD; confirm the current price and departure point with an operator. Boat from Bocas Town.
What kind of wave is Silverbacks?
Silverbacks is a reef break, a right-hander over a reef bottom. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Jun, Jul
November-March Caribbean swells. June-July can work.
Getting There
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