Morro Negrito Surf Camp

Started in June 1998, Morro Negrito Surf Camp (www.surferparadise.com [1]) is on two islands in the Gulf of Chiriquí [2], due north of Isla de Coiba. It’s just off the opposite (northwest) side of the same little peninsula where you’ll find Playa Santa Catalina [3], and it’s even more remote.

The actual surf camp, Morro Negrito, is on an island that the locals call Ensenada. The camp has rustic cabañas, running water, and a dining area. Electricity is generated in the evenings. The waves here are smaller than on the second island, with faces that range 1.5–2.5 meters on average.

The other island is Isla Silva de Afuera, a half hour away by boat. This is the main surfing island, with wave faces that average 3.5–5.5 meters. There are both left and right breaks on both islands. Ten breaks have been discovered so far.

The best time to find big waves is April–October. For nonsurfers there’s a long beach, ocean kayaking, horseback riding, snorkeling, and fishing (bring your own gear for the last two). It’s also possible to hike to a 15-meter waterfall.

Only weeklong package deals are offered. Packages cost US$650 per person and include airport pickup and drop-off, a night in a Panama City [4] hotel, transportation to the camp (a five-hour drive from the city), all food, and daily boat trips to surf spots. The package runs from Saturday to Saturday.