Playa Paunch
Renowned for its good surf and close distance to Bocas town, Playa Paunch is a perfect day trip while staying on Isla Colón. Located within the Bocas del Toro archipelago along Panama’s Caribbean coast, the water here is warm, clear and clean.
Playa Paunch is a ten-minute drive from Bocas town. Although best known for its surf, Playa Paunch is lovely in and of itself. Its white-sand beach is pleasant and surprisingly uncrowded, and its shoreline affords wonderful views of Isla Colón and Isla Carenero in the distance. It may be one of the island’s best and most convenient places to spend the day lounging in the sand or swimming in the sea.
Still, most people come here to surf. The waves break both left and right and tend to vary in size, making it perfect for every skill level. Be aware, though, that a coral reef lies just beneath the surface – surfers are advised to wear booties while shredding Paunch’s waves.
Also within range are the surf breaks at Dumpers, which tend to be larger and a bit burlier.
Where to stay in Playa Paunch
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Playa Paunch accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Playa Tortuga Hotel and Beach Resort
The Playa Tortuga Hotel & Beach Resort is located on Colón Island in Bocas del Toro. The hotel, which is set along a lovely golden-sand beach, has gorgeous rooms and ample facilities.
Tierra Verde Hotel
Hotel Tierra Verde is located on Carenero Island in Bocas del Toro. This small hotel faces the water and is a good choice for adventurous, outdoorsy types.
Hotel Bocas del Toro
Hotel Bocas de Toro sits directly on the water, on the coast of Isla Colón in the Bocas del Toro province. It has 11 cozy rooms and a homey atmosphere.
Gran Hotel Bahía
The Gran Hotel Bahía is set within Bocas town on Colón Island. The hotel has spacious rooms and is located within a historic building.
Eclypse del Mar
Eclypse del Mar is located on Bastimentos Island. It’s a friendly, pleasant place that offers thatch-roof bungalows over the water.
Red Frog Beach Resort
The Red Frog Beach Resort is located on Bastimentos Island in the Bocas del Toro Archipelago. This resort combines a stunning location with beautiful and comfortable accommodations.
Tranquilo Bay
Tranquilo Bay is a gorgeous eco-resort set on Bastimentos Island in Bocas del Toro. The resort has six cozy cabanas and great access to the outdoors. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a quiet and natural experience in Panama.
Al Natural Resort
The Al Natural Resort is located on Bastimentos Island in Bocas del Toro. This hotel consists of several comfortable thatched-roof bungalows set on the edge of the beach. It’s a great place for travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature.
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Insider-led Panama Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
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